When exploring the world of independent watch brands, names such as MB&F, URWERK, and Vianney Halter often come to mind, known for their avant-garde designs and complex mechanical innovations. These brands embody a segment of independent horology that embraces bold aesthetics and technical spectacle. However, there exists another side of independent watchmaking, characterized by traditional craftsmanship and classic design. Brands like Rexhep Rexhepi, F.P. Journe, Roger Smith, and Philippe Dufour represent this refined approach, though they typically command high prices.
In contrast, Habring² offers an accessible entry into independent watchmaking, combining classical aesthetics with subtle technical ingenuity. Based in Austria, Habring² produces timepieces that blend seamlessly with mainstream luxury brands like IWC, Breitling, Rolex, and Omega, while preserving the uniqueness associated with independent craftsmanship.
The Story of Habring²
Founded by Richard and Maria Habring, Habring² has built a reputation for creating high-quality mechanical watches with a focus on precision and innovation. Richard Habring, a trained watchmaker, developed his skills at prestigious Swiss institutions such as Jaeger-LeCoultre, A. Lange & Söhne, and IWC Schaffhausen. His early career was marked by significant contributions, including the development of an innovative split-seconds chronograph (Rattrapante) at IWC.
In 2012, Habring² launched the Doppel 2.0, an affordable split-seconds chronograph based on the Valjoux 7750 movement, which won the Sports Watch Prize at the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG). The brand continues to offer a variety of models that maintain a classic appearance while incorporating unique mechanical features, all at relatively attainable price points. For instance, the Habring² Perpetual Calendar Chronograph is priced at €23,500 including 20% VAT.
Examination of the Chrono-Felix Top-Second
One notable model in the Habring² lineup is the Chrono-Felix Top-Second, a watch that exemplifies the brand’s philosophy of understated complexity. Featuring a simple, utilitarian aesthetic reminiscent of military watches, the Chrono-Felix Top-Second offers subtle details that reveal its mechanical sophistication upon closer inspection.
The black dial, inspired by 1930s military designs, features a matte, grained finish similar to the surface texture of vintage camera grips. A white railway minute track encircles the dial, accented with faux-vintage Super-Luminova at the five-minute intervals. The polished cathedral-style hands, also treated with Super-Luminova, provide excellent legibility. Both the minute and chronograph seconds hands are subtly curved at their tips for improved precision.
At three o’clock, a 30-minute chronograph counter is positioned, operated via a single pusher at two o’clock, functioning as a monopusher chronograph. The chronograph mechanism is smooth in operation, and the minute hand’s jump can be observed both on the dial and through the open caseback, offering an educational glimpse into the mechanical choreography.
A distinctive feature of the Chrono-Felix Top-Second is located at nine o'clock. Here, the numeral "9" contains a hollowed-out section, revealing a red flashing signal known as the "Top Second" indicator. This mechanism, originally developed by Mondia in the 1960s, features a small propeller rotating every five seconds, providing a visual confirmation that the watch is running.
Mechanical Details and Finishing
The Chrono-Felix Top-Second is powered by the manually wound Caliber A11C-H1. This movement operates at 4 Hz, provides a 48-hour power reserve, and features a tangential screw fine adjustment, a Carl Haas anti-magnetic hairspring, and KIF shock protection adhering to DIN and NIHS standards.
The movement is decorated with polished bevels, perlage, and blued components, offering a visually engaging experience through the transparent caseback. Designed with serviceability in mind, it consists of 76 service-relevant single components out of a total of 180 parts, reflecting Habring²’s commitment to practical watchmaking.
Wearability and Pricing
Measuring 38.5mm in diameter and 11mm in height, the Chrono-Felix Top-Second offers excellent wrist comfort. The use of a NATO strap enhances its casual appeal and wearability. With a retail price of CHF 7,850 including VAT, the Chrono-Felix Top-Second represents an accessible path into the world of independent, high-quality horology.
Conclusion
Habring² stands out by offering traditionally styled watches that incorporate mechanical innovations without excessive complexity or intimidating designs. The brand provides a gateway for collectors seeking to experience the craftsmanship and uniqueness of independent watchmaking without venturing into the often prohibitive price ranges of more established names.
Technical Details
Brand: Habring²
Model: Chrono-Felix Top-Second
Movement Type: Manual-Winding
Caliber: A11C-H1
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Crystal: Sapphire Crystal (front and open caseback)
Dial: Black, grained matte finish with faux-vintage Super-Luminova and flashing "Top-Second" indicator at 9 o’clock
Hands: Polished cathedral hands with faux-vintage Super-Luminova
Strap: Green NATO strap (other options available)
Water Resistance: 50 meters (5 ATM)
Functions: Time (Hours, Minutes, Seconds), Mono-pusher Chronograph, Top-Second visual running indicator
Dimensions:
- Case Diameter: 38.5 mm
- Thickness: 11 mm
Power Reserve: 48 hours
Special Features:
- Tangential screw fine adjustment
- Anti-magnetic escapement with Carl Haas hairspring (chronometer quality)
- KIF shock protection (DIN and NIHS standards)
- Hand-finished movement with polished bevels, decorative engravings, perlage, and blued components
Price: CHF 7,850 (including VAT)
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