Münster, Germany-based MeisterSinger is fulfilling a commitment to bolster its famed Circularis line with the release of a brand-new automatic variant, the MeisterSinger Circularis Automatik watch. With a Baselworld 2016 debut, MeisterSinger is expanding the line which has already taken home a Red Dot Design Award for its uniquely minimalist take on wristwatches.
If you have heard of the company before, then you probably remember what has become somewhat of a trademark for them: a beautifully crafted wrist watch with a single hand. Some of you might be asking why a manufacturer would leave out such a seemingly essential feature on a wristwatch, but with the indexes at play, there are actually no problems with the legibility of the dial. MeisterSinger uses the term “relaxed” to describe the ambiance of this piece, and I have to agree with them. In addition, the brand has decided not only to introduce the new automatic variation, but also to update the manual Circularis MSH01 movement.
With a 43mm stainless steel case, the manual and automatic variants now feature galvanized hour markers that are coated with Super-LumiNova just like the hour hand. Compare this update to previous models, and you will find this is a welcome addition to the watch face. With only a solitary hand to indicate the time, you will come to appreciate the increased late-night legibility.
Unlike the manual version, the new MeisterSinger Circularis Automatik features a date window at 6 o’clock. It is rather small and recessed, and adds minimal clutter to the dial. In fact, the dial is one of the biggest attributes to appreciate in these models. Coming in four different colors, you can choose between a creamy ivory or a sunburst sapphire blue, anthracite, or burgundy. The manual-wind version has been updated with the inclusion of a shimmering sunburst sapphire green. I found myself wishing this color would have been offered with the automatic as well, but the anthracite looks no doubt gorgeous.
The MeisterSinger Circularis collection originally featured a manually wound Calibre MSH01 that set the stage for future variants and improvements. While the MSH01 was never a true “in-house” movement, it can be described as a proprietary movement for the company. Now, with the MSA01, the MeisterSinger Circularis Automatik has been outfitted with a skeletonized rotor and features twin barrels supplying a solid 120-hour power reserve. The movement can be seen through the sapphire crystal case back and is designed by founder and managing director, Manfred Bassler.
The MeisterSinger Circularis Automatik watch is a breath of fresh air for watch enthusiasts seeking a unique piece on an already crowded playing field. Customization is key here, and I was overjoyed upon discovering the customizable gallery on their website that allowed me to swap out leather bands with immaculate Milanese bracelets before deciding which combination best suited my tastes. Oftentimes, there is limited flexibility in terms of options to fit one’s personal tastes, but I really appreciate being able to find a set that speaks to me, and this alone says volumes about the brand’s approach.
The MeisterSinger Circularis Automatik watch is available in several variations, so you should head on over to their site gallery to see which one works best for you. They are priced at 4,498 EUR with a version of the blue dial in gold that will be available for 5,798 EUR. meistersinger.net