The world of horology is undoubtedly filled with its fair share of independent watchmakers and watch publications, but what happens when two of the best come together to launch a watch? This happens, the Habring Monochrome Montre de Souscription 1 Monopusher. Launched in 2021 as Monochrome's first collaboration watch, the Montre de Souscription 1 is a stunning, vintage-inspired watch.
Based on the Habring Chrono-Felix and limited to 33 pieces, the Montre de Souscription 1 is a rare timepiece that celebrates Habring's tendency to create out-of-the-ordinary timepieces and Monochrome founder Frank Geelen's passion for horology. Interestingly, this piece was offered as a ‘Souscription’, which was done historically in watchmaking to help with fund projects, as buyers would put down a portion of the total price before work started and only complete payment upon completion.
With a gorgeous two-textured salmon pink dial, the Montre de Souscription clearly draws inspiration from the chronographs of the 1940s with its classic two subdial layout, subtle mixing of surface finishes, and pieces of heritage like a railroad-style minute track and a telemeter scale.
Beyond its dial, the Montre de Souscription's construction is also somewhat unique given the position of its single chronograph pusher, hence "monopusher," at 2 o'clock. Combined with its entirely brushed 38.5mm stainless steel case, this Montre de Souscription's construction is easy on the eye and reminiscent of watches of old.
Acting as its final link to horology's past, the Montre de Souscription Is powered by the manual-wind cal. A11C-H1 movement, which sits proudly behind a sapphire crystal exhibition caseback. This movement is the result of Habring's work modifying and improving the legendary workhorse Valjoux cal. 7750 ébauche and converting it into a mono-pusher.
With the growing appreciation of independent, small production brands like Habring, it is easy to see why this series of Souscription watches sold out quickly. Furthermore, it must be said in no uncertain terms that this is just a downright beautiful watch, with amazing proportions and thoughtful details.
