Sternglas, a brand known for its minimalist timepieces, has unveiled a special edition to mark a significant milestone: a decade of craftsmanship. The Naos Automatik Edition Bauhaus X series pays tribute to the iconic Bauhaus movement, a style that has become synonymous with the brand's identity. As an avid watch enthusiast and admirer of the Bauhaus aesthetic, I was eager to delve into this limited-edition collection.
A Subtle Makeover, a Bold Statement
Sternglas has taken its most popular model, the Naos, and given it a subtle yet impactful transformation. The brand's decision to celebrate its 10th anniversary by honoring the Bauhaus principles is a testament to its commitment to design. The Naos, in my opinion, is the epitome of Bauhaus translated into a wristwatch. Its clean lines, functional simplicity, and timeless appeal make it a perfect canvas for this celebration.
The Bauhaus X series consists of three watches, each with a unique twist. The first thing that caught my attention was the use of color, a core element of the Bauhaus philosophy. Sternglas has added colorful details, a departure from their usual minimalist approach, while still maintaining the brand's signature style. This is a bold move, as it adds a layer of complexity to the design without compromising the overall aesthetic.
The Devil is in the Details
Each watch in the series boasts a 38mm stainless steel case, a size that sits elegantly on the wrist. The 13mm profile, including the double-domed crystal, adds a subtle sense of depth. The 43mm lug-to-lug measurement ensures a comfortable fit for various wrist sizes. These dimensions, in my experience, strike a perfect balance between presence and wearability.
The off-white dial, fully coated with Super-LumiNova, is a standout feature. It not only enhances legibility but also adds a playful element, as the dial glows brightly in the dark. The minute track, a familiar feature of the regular Naos Automatik, is accompanied by black markers in the shapes of circles, squares, and triangles, a nod to the primary building blocks of Bauhaus design. This subtle change from numerals adds a layer of intrigue and historical context.
The hands, a key component of any watch, are a study in contrast. The familiar black hour and minute hands are filled with off-white Super-LumiNova, ensuring visibility in low-light conditions. But it's the seconds hand that steals the show, available in blue, red, or yellow, mirroring the primary colors of Bauhaus design. This small detail adds a surprising pop of color, a delightful surprise for those who appreciate the finer points of watch design.
A Colorful Surprise
The color integration doesn't stop at the dial. When you turn the watch over, you're greeted with a tinted transparent display on the case back, matching the color of the seconds hand. This is a clever way to add a subtle hint of color when the watch is not being worn. It's these small details that showcase Sternglas' attention to design and its ability to surprise and delight its audience.
Performance and Comfort
Underneath the stylish exterior lies a reliable workhorse: the Miyota 8215 caliber. This automatic movement is known for its robustness and accuracy, offering a 42-hour power reserve and a date complication. It's a solid choice for a daily wearer, ensuring the watch keeps up with the demands of modern life.
The watch's comfort is further enhanced by the choice of strap. The 20mm Italian vintage pull-up leather strap not only complements the overall design but also ensures a comfortable fit. The stitching, matching the color of the seconds hand and case back crystal, is a subtle detail that ties the entire package together.
A Limited Edition Worth Celebrating
Wearing the Sternglas Naos Automatik Edition Bauhaus X is an experience. The colorful twist adds a layer of personality, connecting the watches to their design heritage. The limited edition of 500 pieces for each color makes these timepieces even more desirable. As a fan of the Bauhaus movement, I appreciate how these watches subtly reference the style without being overly literal. The hints of color on the dial and the vibrant case back are a refreshing take on a classic design.
In conclusion, the Sternglas Naos Automatik Edition Bauhaus X series is a thoughtful celebration of both the brand's success and the enduring influence of the Bauhaus movement. It's a limited edition that offers a unique blend of historical reference, contemporary design, and a touch of playful surprise. For watch enthusiasts and Bauhaus aficionados alike, these timepieces are a compelling addition to any collection, marking a decade of Sternglas' dedication to the art of watchmaking.
