Founded by husband-and-wife duo Richard and Maria Habring in the small town of Völkermarkt, Austria, Habring² produce some of the most understated and technically impressive timepieces on the market for their relatively affordable price points. Taking this clear and concise design language to another level, Habring² collaborated with watch publication SJX in 2021 on a timepiece that celebrated SJX's 10th anniversary; the Habring² Erwin “Star” SJX Edition One. With a modest physical construction, a competent movement, and a unique dial unlike what we see on the market today, Habring² and SJX have created a timepiece that signifies both brands' unique twists on their respective industries.
Inspired by the galaxy dial wristwatches of the 1940s and 1950s, the Habring² Erwin “Star” is a charismatic timepiece that certainly makes a point of forging its own identity and not relying on contemporary design influences to appease collectors. With a rich blue dial, gold star-shaped hour markers, and a set of large gold hands, the Erwin “Star” is legible, symmetrical, and beautiful as its dial and blue calf leather strap complement one another.
The Habring² Erwin “Star” features a classic 38.5mm stainless steel case with highly polished surfaces, complemented by star-shaped hour markers that create a dazzling yet understated luxury when reflecting light. With a sizeable winding crown at 3 o'clock and downturned lugs, the overall design remains rooted in the classic aesthetic from which the Habring2 Erwin Star's dial is inspired (a.k.a the Rolex Ref. 6088 “Galaxy”).
Known for their ability to create watches with unusual complications, Habring² has taken on one of watchmaking's most notoriously tricky complications, the deadbeat seconds. Seeking to convey their, and SJX's, unique twists beyond just the design, Habring² has redesigned the legendary Valjoux Cal. 7750 movement so that it now ticks once per second, giving it the appearance of a quartz watch. Of course, the Habring² Erwin “Star” is indeed mechanical and displays its unique movement from behind an exhibition caseback where its distinct construction can be admired. As far as power reserve goes, the Cal. A11s can hold up to 48 hours on a full wind.
Limited to just 50 pieces worldwide and rooted in watchmaking history, the Habring² Erwin “Star” reimagines classical watchmaking with true decorum as it blends modern watchmaking with classical ideals that result in a watch that is truly unique in today's market.
