The Sinn 717 debuted in 2021 and won at least two major German design awards. A large, easy-to-read chronograph with a look inspired by the NaBo 17 cockpit clock from the legendary Tornado jet fighter. We take another look at 717 and highlight some interesting Nabo-17-related stories that have surfaced.
My colleague Rex covered Sinn 717 in late 2021 after its release and enjoyed its bold presence. Since then, this watch has remained a catalog staple, with striking metal. There is no doubt that Sinn makes well-made watches with an emphasis on functionality. The 717 clearly defines this belief with its cockpit clock-like appearance and impressive features. While we’ll revisit these, we’d also like to mention some recent news about the NaBo 17, which was the inspiration for this watch’s design.
The Nabo 17
The news from Sinn concerns the NaBo 17 cockpit clock produced by the brand for the Panavia PA-200 “Tornado” fighter jet, which is still in service with the German military. On April 16, 1980, a test pilot crashed into a tornado in Germany and sadly both were killed. After the crash, Lieutenant Colonel Volkert Rossweiler was assigned to investigate.
Among other discoveries, both clocks on board were found to be intact and functioning. The story was unknown until recently, when Mr. Rothweiler, long retired, discovered one of the watches, along with several other relics from his career as a military pilot. He contacted Lothar Schmidt, Jin’s owner, who recounted the story. The watch eventually became part of the brand’s archive collection.
The Shin 717
The Sinn 717 may not be an actual cockpit clock, but the similarities are clear. Bold white numbers, hints of orange, and a rotating bezel are all present. The layout is different and more similar to a traditional watch. This 45mm stainless steel watch features the brand’s black hard coating and Tegiment surface treatment for added durability. Its size sounds bold, but its short lug-to-lug measurement of 48 mm means it can be used even on medium-sized wrists. Of course, the 24mm wide black leather strap enhances the presence of your wrist. The thickness is 15.3mm including the flat sapphire crystal.
cool technology
The Sinn 717 is the brand’s first model to showcase innovative bezel sealing technology. The wearer can adjust the internal bezel by simply turning the knurled outer edge. This isn’t usually a recipe for strong water resistance, but the 717 achieves 200m of water resistance. What’s more, if you’re concerned, the Ar-dehumidification technology capsule will alert you when moisture enters your watch case.
A display loved by passionate fans
In addition to maximum legibility, the Sinn 717 offers features that collectors of classic chronographs will love. The automatic caliber inside has a central minute counter like the legendary Lemania 5100. This makes sense since the NaBo 17 has the same complication. The minute counter on the watch can be read by a thick orange hand with luminescent material near the pointed tip. Additionally, a pale orange central hand records the elapsed seconds.
Otherwise, the watch displays the running seconds at 9 o’clock and the date window at 3 o’clock. Again, in homage to the cockpit clock, the inner bezel slopes steeply towards the matte black dial. A large amount of Super-LumiNova glows green in the dark, ensuring the watch’s visibility.
Contents of SZ01
The central clockwork of this center minute chronograph is the Sinn SZ01. Automatic chronograph based on Concepto C 99001. However, Sinn worked with the company to develop the module. The 28 jewel movement beats at 28,800 vibrations per hour and has a power reserve of 42 hours. A screw-down crown sets the time and date, and two piston pushers control the chronograph.
Familiar feel on your wrist
There’s no getting away from the fact that the Sinn 717 is a large watch. However, when I tried it on, I felt a sense of deja vu. I own an EZM 1.1 S with the same case color and movement. This is a large watch that doesn’t fit my wrist, but the same 48mm lug length makes it wearable. For me it’s not an everyday watch, but if my wrist was bigger I might be able to do that. 717 has a similar feel. So, just like the cockpit clock that inspired the model, it looks beautifully finished and unbreakable. Admittedly, I changed the EZM to a black Sinn silicone strap, and I’ll probably do the same with the 717.
conclusion
The news that two Navo 17 cockpit chronographs have survived gives us the opportunity to get in touch with the Sinn 717 firsthand. Even though this watch has been out for three years, it still looks fresh and bold. No, it’s not small, but small watches aren’t for everyone. At 4,990 euros, we think the Sinn 717 is an attractive option for those who want a dignified chronograph with an array of innovative features and quality comparable to much larger and more expensive brands. Additionally, the 717’s lineage can be traced back to long-lasting and durable watches used in legendary aircraft.
What do you think about this watch and its historical inspiration? As always, let us know what you think in the comments section.
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