MeisterSinger presents the Enamel 1Z Edition 2024

MeisterSinger presented the Enamel 1Z Edition, produced in only 24 pieces with enamel dial and Unitas 6498 hand-wound movement. Price €4,990

MeisterSinger presented the Enamel 1Z Edition, a special wristwatch that will be produced in only 24 pieces to celebrate the 20th anniversary since MeisterSinger's first edition watch featuring a genuine enamel dial, introduced in 2004. 

Limited to 222 pieces, the 2004 Edition 1Z  model stood out for its enamel dial, blued steel hand, and the specially modified pocket watch movement, Unitas 6497

The 2024 version of the Enamel 1Z emulates its predecessor in a number of ways. As in the past, the dial is  created using a centuries-old enamelling technique. But, compared to the 2004 edition, the new Enamel 1Z Edition boasts a style reminiscent of early pocket watches. 

The elaborately heat-blued single hand with its extra-long transition rotates around the dial in true MeisterSinger fashion. The "1Z" in the name stands – then as now – for '1 Zeiger', which is German for '1 hand'.

Characterised by the signature ivory tone, this enamel dial guarantees exceptional qualities, including the unalterable intensity of its hue over time and a unique glossy appearance. Only a select few experienced artisans possess the skill to master this age-old process, which has remained virtually unchanged since the Renaissance.

Creating an enamel dial involves a multistep process spanning several days. A sophisticated mixture of glass-forming silicates and oxides is finely ground into powder, then delicately applied to a prepared copper dial using a fine screen. 

The dial is initially fired at around 800°C in a specialized furnace, then slowly cooled. This process is repeated two more times until the dial achieves its distinctive luminous texture.

The reverse side undergoes similar treatment, being fired multiple times to prevent warping and cracking on the dial side due to stress. 

Crafted dials that meet the stringent standards for final assembly are completed by a fine serif typeface and blue highlights, which are delicately transferred onto the enamel surface.

The single hand gracefully moves across the dial, indicating precise five-minute intervals. Although unconventional, telling time on this dial becomes effortless and pleasurable once you grow accustomed to the idea of a single hand marking 12 hours divided into 144 intervals.

Crafted from stainless steel, the 43mm case of the Edition Singularis Enamel is water-resistant up to 5 bar (50 metres / 165 feet) and fitted with a domed sapphire crystal.

In line with the inspiration of this model, MeisterSinger chose to equip it with a Unitas 6498 pocket watch movement that can be admired through the glass exhibition back. Originally designed for pocket watches, this hand-wound movement offers 46 hours of power reserve and is enhanced by sunburst-finished wheels, blued screws, and a bridge adorned with Geneva stripes.

Paired with a cognac calf leather strap with a double folding clasp, the new MeisterSinger Enamel 1Z Edition, ref. ED-UNITAS-1ZE, has a suggested retail price of Euro 4,990. meistersinger.com

Suggested reading:

- Single-hand timepieces in watchmaking history