ReviewA Wonder On Your Wrist: The MeisterSinger Country Edition—India
Home is where the heart is. And if this country is home for you, here’s your chance to wear your heart on your sleeve (or off it!), with the MeisterSinger India edition.
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MeisterSinger has carved a niche for itself in the horological world for its mechanical watches. What sets them apart is their special type of display that comes with only a single hand, thus, not dividing the flow of time into hectic tiny units. What’s more, the balanced aesthetic design stays true to the tradition of scientific instrument making. The bottom line is that sporting a MeisterSinger timepiece will invariably give you a personal affirmation every time you look at it, and it is not confined to style alone.
The MeisterSinger City Edition, launched in 2018, had 58 versions, designed for every local patriot who could wear their hometown on their wrists. The caseback was the prime highlight, displaying silhouettes of landmarks or skylines of specific locations. Much to our delight, Delhi and Mumbai also found their place amidst several globally renowned cities such as New York, Munich, Amsterdam, and Barcelona, to name a few. This year, the concept has been scaled up by quite a few notches, thanks to the launch of the MeisterSinger country edition—India. The transparent caseback of this watch features a silhouette of the Taj Mahal—the one monument that can not only be instantly recognised but is also synonymous with India’s identity. The exhibition caseback also displays the name of the country, along with the unique serial number of the watches.
Interestingly enough, any reference of the country edition or the Taj Mahal itself can be seen only when you flip the watch around when it’s off your wrist. This is because the watchmaker did not lose sight of the fact that no matter how deep an attachment you share with your home country, you would probably not want to make it too obvious. Thus, while it does stand for a strong sentiment, the timepiece keeps things subtle and understated, which adds to its elegance.
A Marvel In Marble
Located in Agra, on the southern bank of the river Yamuna, the Taj Mahal is one of the most exquisite masterpieces of world heritage. Built between 1631 and 1648 by order of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his favourite wife Mumtaz Mahal, it is set within a vast Mughal garden, sprawling across nearly 17 hectares, including an enormous reflecting pool. The shimmering white marble seems to change colour depending on the daylight.
Widely considered to be an enduring monument of love, this colossal mausoleum is a year-round attraction for tourists all over the world. In fact, reports suggest that a whopping three million people visit the Taj Mahal each year. One of the most mesmerising structural compositions in the world, this iconic monument was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983. This famed complex is hailed as an exemplary manifestation of Mughal architecture, with a blend of Indian, Persian and Islamic influences.
Decoding The Looks And Spirit
Like all other MeisterSinger offerings, this Country Edition is also a single-hand watch with markers around the dial to represent every five minutes. Set in a steel case, 40mm in diameter, the watch is fitted with a calf leather strap. Thanks to its modest diameter, it will complement both male and female wrists. Behind the domed sapphire crystal glass is a dark blue dial with a fine sunburst finish, which strikes a stunning contrast against the white hand and other markings, including the hour numerals. A circular date window has been added above six o’clock while the word ‘Edition’ in fine cursive lettering is discreetly visible just above it. The signature single-hand concept of the brand reminds you to seize the moment, while the tribute to the Taj Mahal will connect you to your country at all times.
Crafted for the true connoisseurs
Powered by a Swiss automatic movement from the house of Sellita, this timepiece boasts a power reserve of 38 hours. Besides, being equipped with an Incabloc, Nivachoc or Novodiac anti-shock system, the mechanism is shielded from any external impact. This one-of-its-kind watch is also water resistant up to 50m.
Limited to just 15 pieces, this edition is indeed quite exclusive. Whether you currently reside in India or not, if you have an emotional connection with your homeland, this Country Edition watch will be a treasured addition to your horological collection.