Get ready for something epic. Two legendary brands join forces to create something extraordinary. Watchmaker Hodinkee collaborated with Porsche Design to create a limited-edition version of the Chronograph 1, a timepiece that honours Ferdinand Alexander Porsche’s (F.A. Porsche) legacy whilst combining innovative features for today’s watch enthusiasts.
Rooted in History, Built for Today
The original Chronograph 1, designed in the 1970s, represented F.A. Porsche’s design philosophy, which was noted for its clean lines, functionality, and minimalist style. The 2024 Hodinkee Edition keeps these essential components while using the original blueprint as a foundation. The most noticeable change is in the material selection. The 40.8mm wide and 14.15mm thick case, which was originally made of steel, is now made of titanium, which is both lightweight and incredibly durable. This adjustment not only cuts weight but also gives a modern, technical vibe. The case has also been enhanced with a matte-black Titanium-Carbide coating, giving it a subtle yet sophisticated appearance.
The dial stays true to the original design, with a black matte background and prominent white hour markers and hands for great legibility. The hands and indices are made of luminescent material, which is a subtle homage to modernity. Super-LumiNova replaces tritium in the vintage version, resulting in a brighter and longer-lasting glow in low-light conditions.
The dial includes two distinctive features that commemorate both its legacy and Hodinkee’s global reach, making it ideal for watch enthusiasts with a strong eye for detail. The legacy-spec ‘1 Mile’ rehaut, a hallmark of the original design, is still present, giving testament to Hodinkee’s reliance on the US market. A day window at 3 o’clock displays the day of the week. With a twist, the wearer can choose between English and Japanese language displays, an homage to Japan’s avid watch community, where Hodinkee is widely recognised.
A Modern Powerhouse
While the outside design tends towards respectful replication, the interior features modern upgrades. The Werk 01.100 calibre, a dependable automatic chronograph movement, powers the 2024 Chronograph 1 Limited Edition for Hodinkee. This movement has a 48-hour power reserve, thus the watch will continue to function even if not worn for a day or two.
The chronograph function retains the classic layout of the subdials, with a 30-minute counter at 12 o’clock and a small seconds display at 6 o’clock. Unlike the original Chronograph 1, which didn’t have a central seconds hand for timekeeping, the 2024 Edition features one, giving a more conventional method to read the time.
A Collector’s Item with Everyday Appeal
The Porsche Design Chronograph 1 Limited Edition for Hodinkee is sure to become a sought-after collector’s item, with only 350 pieces available worldwide. Whether you’re a Porsche aficionado, a Hodinkee devotee, or simply a watch enthusiast with a penchant for timeless design and modern technology, the Porsche Design Chronograph 1 Limited Edition for Hodinkee is a timepiece worthy of serious consideration.
You can pick up this awesome timepiece at Hodinkee.com.