BY DHANANJAY PATHAK
In a world where achieving accuracy to the second is the ultimate goal, German brand MeisterSinger makes watches that, in contrast, focus on telling time in a relaxed and fun manner. For 2021, the brand has recently expanded its catalog of single-hand watches with the Bell Hora, a unique watch that can sing the completion of an hour to the wearer.
Equipped with an uncommon “Sonnerie au passage” complication, the Bell Hora continues to showcase MeisterSinger’s easy-going approach towards timekeeping. Unlike the more complex minute repeater and Grande Sonnerie’s out there that deliver a comprehensive sonic experience, the “Sonnerie au passage” keeps things relatively simple by chiming once every hour to notify the wearer that a new hour has begun. Furthermore, the wearer can easily control the chiming using the pusher at 2. A black marking shows at a glance whether the watch would chime the next hour or remain silent. Apart from this, the Bella Hora is instantly recognizable as a MeisterSinger.
Presented in a deep rich midnight blue shade with white printing, or cream color with black printing, the face of the Bella Hora is characterized by double-digit 24-hour numerals that have been laid in a peculiar spiral shape. To enhance visual interest, and make the numerals look more organized, the spiral pattern along with small straight lines at each level pointing to the respective hour have been deeply stamped on the dial. A minute track has been printed on the outer periphery and mounted at the center is the brand’s signature single tapering needle-shaped hand that tracks the passage of time.
The case is made using 316 L stainless steel. It measures 43mm in diameter and has a thickness of around 13mm to sit comfortably on the wrist and offer some presence. The case is fully polished and offers a decent water resistance of 50 meters.
The mechanical heart of the Bell Hora comes in the form of the automatic MS Bell caliber. This movement uses the Sellita SW 200-1 as a base and incorporates a modified 12-hour jumping module to activate the hourly strike of the hammer. The movement operates at 4 Hz and offers an autonomy of around 38 hours and can be viewed through the exhibition case back.
The new MeisterSinger Bell Hora comes attached to a dark brown or tan leather strap, depending on the color of the dial. The watch will retail for EUR 3,490, which is a competitive price for what is on offer here.
