Experience the enduring artistry of Zeitwinkel: tradition reimagined, precision perfected, and elegance refined.
The Refined Dimensions of the Zeitwinkel 173°: A Closer Look at its Contemporary Design
The new Zeitwinkel 173° features a meticulously crafted stainless steel case, boasting a redesigned silhouette with a diameter of 39.7mm, a thickness of 12.9mm (including the domed sapphire crystal), and a lug-to-lug measurement of 48mm. This represents a significant reduction from the 273°, which measured 42.5mm by 13.8mm with a 52mm lug-to-lug. The 173° showcases softer, more rounded contours compared to the 273°'s angular profile. The prominent 6.7mm fluted crown, equipped with a double O-ring seal, is positioned at 3 o'clock. Its construction, featuring a sapphire crystal caseback, ensures robust protection while maintaining the brand's signature instrument-like approach, embellished with intricate details. The timepiece offers a water resistance of 50 meters.
Unveiling the Dial: A Symphony of Sapphire and Precision
Following the tradition of its predecessor, the 273°, the Zeitwinkel 173° employs sapphire to present the upper mechanism. Two captivating dial variations are available: the Saphir Fumé, which echoes the original's smoky aesthetic, and the Saphir Bleu, a modern, light-responsive interpretation. The dial elements are precisely metallized and directly applied to the sapphire surface using sophisticated lithographic techniques (LIGA). This process ensures both clarity and readability, offering an unobstructed view of the intricate mechanics beneath. The signature large date aperture remains at 11 o'clock, now appearing more seamlessly integrated into the design, complemented by a power reserve indicator on the dial side.
The Heart of the Matter: Unraveling the ZW0103 Calibre's Craftsmanship
The new Zeitwinkel 173° is animated by the same in-house calibre ZW0103, a unifying element between both generations. This automatic movement, once exclusive to the 273° collection, is composed of 387 components and is distinguished by its patented large-date display. Its construction is rooted in untreated German silver plates and bridges; a frosted finish on the upper side is available upon request. The material's inherent warmth, reminiscent of champagne, and its exceptional responsiveness to finishing remain pivotal to the watch's identity. Operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour, the movement delivers a substantial 72-hour power reserve, showcasing technical prowess and visual artistry through its traditional finishing.
Accessibility and Craftsmanship: The Enduring Allure of the 173°
By scaling down the case size, the brand makes its iconic model more approachable, while diligently preserving the mechanical integrity and aesthetic excellence that defined the 273°. The 173° is offered with a selection of strap options, including calf leather or natural rubber, tapering from 20mm to 18mm. These are secured with a folding clasp, with a pin buckle available upon request for leather straps. Each timepiece is produced on a made-to-order basis, consistent with Zeitwinkel's artisanal approach to watchmaking. The pricing remains consistent with the previous model, at CHF 21,500 (excluding VAT). Further details can be found on Zeitwinkel's official website.
