Over the last few months, I have been actively involved in several design projects. As an artist, I feel it is part of my DNA to immerse myself in creative activities. For example, writing about horology inspired me to develop my own ideas. Back in the 1980’s when I was studying for my degree in Illustration there wasn’t the vast array of digital devices available. Essentially this meant there wasn’t access to other nationwide artist’s work (never mind on an international level). These day’s social media portals like LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram etc. deliver this content instantaneously. That avoids complacency as a designer and provide constant resources in my capacity as a writer/author.
Recently I have been communicating with a very talented German designer called Andreas Hartig. I first became aware of his creative skills on the Facebook Group ‘Premium Mechanical Microbrands’. This forum was established by industry specialist Sophy Rindler and give a voice to small independent watchmakers. If these type of groups didn’t exist consumers wouldn’t be aware of Andreas’s label Hartig Timepieces.
These day’s buyers have become a lot more savvy about purchasing a timepiece. Ultimately that is because watch forums are transparent about the cost of quartz and in particular mechanical movements. If you are a start up brand it is important to offer customers incentives and that means setting a realistic price. Certainly, Andreas Hartig believes in this philosophy and the fantastic Racer AH002 perfectly illustrates this point. It is also pertinent to mention that this distinctive timepiece is also manufactured in Germany.
Initially what impressed me with Racer AH002 was the bold industrial appearance, which is unlike many other generic timepieces on the market. This 46mm 316L stainless steel watch has been created for people who want to make a bold first impression. Undisputedly this timepiece will definitely separate you from the madding crowd. I also feel because of the innovative design it would be comfortable to wear. Aesthetically details like the robust polished unidirectional bezel and oversize left-hand crown are highly effective. I love the matt black dial with raised silver indexes and chronograph counters. Other features include vibrant blue (red, yellow also available) hour/minutes hands and a large date window (located at 6 o’clock). Overall the composition has been well considered and perfectly executed.
Impressively to power the watch Andreas decided to use a highly reliable ETA 7751 movement. The caliber comprises 25-jewels and oscillates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour. This refined mechanism is visibly showcased via a sapphire crystal exhibition case back. Functionally the Racer AH002 features hours, minutes, seconds, chronograph and date indications. The timepiece also has a power reserve of 40-hours and is water resistant to a depth of 100 metres.
The Racer AH002 is equipped with a high-quality black rubber strap and priced competitively at €1,000 (approximately $1,173).
For more information about Hartig Timepieces follow this link