I have always perceived Glashütte Original as a reserved watch brand.
Nevertheless, the German manufacturer indeed uses its Vintage Collection to experiment with colors beyond the usual black, silver, and blue dials. This is where the new annual edition of the Sixties Chronograph with an unusual purple dial comes into play. I was even lucky enough to visit the impressive Glashütte Original manufacture and see how these watches are created with the utmost precision.
In 2023, Glashütte Original introduced the previous annual edition of the Sixties Chronograph with a gradient textured dial from gray to black. In terms of color, the purple edition we discuss today is on a completely different level.
Features of the Glashütte Original Sixties Chronograph Annual Edition in Purple
Let's start with the main technical specifications. The model has a case diameter of 42 mm and a lug-to-lug distance of 48.5 mm. The stainless steel case is equipped with double-domed sapphire crystal on both sides, giving the watch a vintage charm reminiscent of a smooth stone. At just 12.4 mm thick, the watch remains comfortable to wear, especially considering the automatic chronograph. The case is fully polished, which does not distract from the beauty of the dial.
Inside is the automatic chronograph movement 39-34, fully developed and manufactured at the brand's manufacture. An interesting fact: the production of the three-quarter plates characteristic of Glashütte takes place only twice a year because this process causes vibrations throughout the building. Even the smallest screws are made, hand-finished, and blued in the brand's atelier. Due to manual work, each blue screw is slightly different from another, but watchmakers carefully select screws of the same shade of blue for each specific piece. I was told that collectors pay attention to this particular blue tone in their Glashütte Original watches.
The caliber 39-34 operates at a frequency of 28,800 semi-oscillations per hour, contains 51 jewels, and has a 40-hour power reserve. Through the convex sapphire crystal of the case back, the Glashütte striping finish, swan-neck regulator, and 21-carat gold rotor with a double G logo are clearly visible.
Purple Dial with Unique Texture
The main element of the model is, undoubtedly, the dial. After the two additional counters are cut into the flat brass base, the dial is pressed to create the characteristic texture and convex shape. Then a rich purple lacquer with a gradient effect, which is more subtle and restrained compared to the previous annual edition, is applied. The process is completed by applying white print and milling the hour markers. The central hands made of rose gold are equipped with luminous coating for improved readability in low light conditions.
The texture of the dial is difficult to describe unequivocally, but it resembles thin tree bark radiating from the center and diverging like a classic "sunburst" pattern. It's a very original solution that I have not encountered on other dials. The texture pairs excellently with the slightly metallic shade of purple. Thanks to the convex shape and light gradient, you can see many shades of purple on this stylish annual edition.
One of the Best Fabric Straps on the Market
To emphasize the sporty character of the Sixties Chronograph, the watch is equipped with a textile strap made of synthetic material. Although such straps are not new, I forgot about them for a while, which was a mistake. These are indeed some of the best fabric straps on the market: they are durable but not too stiff, giving the watch a casual look without lowering its status. I'm even considering purchasing such straps for my other watches. Glashütte Original equips each strap with a comfortable folding clasp, but personally, I would prefer a classic buckle to reduce bulk.
Thanks to the comfortable strap, the watch fits well on my wrist with a circumference of 17 cm, despite the rather large diameter of 42 mm. The convex case back sits comfortably against the wrist, and the lugs are not too long. I would like to see a 38 mm version, but the 42 mm model surprisingly fit well. The watch feels reliable on the wrist, and the operation of the push-pull crown and buttons confirms this impression.
Watch and Tool Production at the Manufacture
During the factory tour, I was surprised that all Glashütte Original's production facilities are concentrated in one building. For example, tools are made here, which are then used in production. This allows the brand to produce many parts characteristic of vintage models. Moreover, new watches are created with a high degree of care and precision. The raw material on the ground floor of the building is aged for six weeks to relieve internal stresses. This prevents cracking and ensures uniform expansion and contraction of different parts of the watch with temperature changes.
Every part goes through many hands before becoming a watch. For final assembly, the experience of highly skilled watchmakers is required. Assembling a watch is not just a matter of putting all the parts together, but a process that requires understanding the mechanism's operation and what needs to be done to enhance its accuracy. It's easy to forget how much work goes into making a watch, but a tour of such a manufacture reminds us how amazing it is that a mechanical device on your wrist actually tells time.
Conclusion: Style and Quality of Glashütte Original
As I mentioned at the beginning, Glashütte Original has always been more of a modest brand to me. However, after getting acquainted with the production, I was impressed by the attention to detail in these watches. Moreover, the rich purple color of the Sixties Chronograph dial proves that Glashütte Original can go beyond the usual and allow itself bold decisions.
If you appreciate meticulously finished, high-quality watches with unusual colors and automatic chronographs, the annual edition of the Glashütte Original Sixties Chronograph deserves your attention. Its price is €10,000 / $10,000 / £8,400 on a synthetic textile strap, and the release is time-limited. More detailed information can be found on the brand's official website.