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as Art movement and pioneer of modernismWhen we think of Bauhaus, we usually imagine something simple in design and function. Use your intuition as an accessory to your aesthetics. Often suitable for versatile everyday designs. So it’s not often that we see Bauhaus-inspired dive watches that are very visually flashy, but Sternglas has pulled it off with the Sternglas Merion. It is also the 8th birthday of the German microbrand, which has established a strong fan community since its founding in 2016.
case
The foundations of the Bauhaus style were laid in the 1920s and 30s, but its influence was felt long into the 50s and 60s, when it had its greatest impact on watchmaking. Choosing a supercompressor style case with an internal bezel works really well with the overall vintage style, reducing the bulk of the case and streamlining its silhouette. The crowns at 2 and 4 o’clock control the bezel and time settings, respectively, and are screw-down. To ensure water resistance of 200 meters.
From a physical characteristics standpoint, the Merion definitely doesn’t overstate its presence on the wrist. The 41mm diameter leaves plenty of room for the wide internal bezel, and the 49mm lug-to-lug length means it will fit the average wrist very comfortably. However, at 14mm thick, it’s quite thick, so it may appeal to those looking for the reassurance of a rugged diver’s watch. The case sides and bezel are brushed, while the polished lugs add an elegant touch.
dial
Supercompressor case and Bauhaus details aside, the Sternglas Merion’s color scheme is reminiscent of 1970s funk. The textured green gradient dial is complemented by an orange-yellow seconds hand, orange hour hand, and navy blue internal bezel, all creating a cacophony of colors. There’s also a more traditional version that’s black with red highlights, while the Technicolor version even has an orange glow around the sapphire crystal, which has an anti-reflective coating. Described as an algae green, it may not be a very flattering name, but it accurately captures the fume effect from dark to light.
Peeking out from the 6 o’clock position, a circular cutout reveals a clean, symmetrical teal date window. The majority of the dial is divided evenly by printed marks for hours, minutes, or seconds and fifths of a second. The luminous baton, along with the inverted triangle at 12 o’clock on its tall sloping bezel, works in conjunction with the luminous hands to enhance legibility after dark. In typical Bauhaus fashion, all of the text printed on the dial is sans-serif and discreet.
movement
The proven Seiko NH35 is engraved on the back of the heavy caseback, which is engraved with a picture of two flying fish in endless pursuit. This movement, known as 4R35 when used by Seiko, has been used by microbrands since before it became standard in the Seiko 5 Sports collection. It has a proven track record of reliability and accuracy, and is also easy to modify and modify. Adjust it yourself with some tools and Timegrapher. Parts are plentiful in case repairs are needed, but they’re also cheap enough to replace the entire movement in a pinch. It has a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour, a power reserve of 41 hours, more than enough for everyday use, and is self-winding.
strap
The Sternglas Merion is equipped with an Oyster-style stainless steel bracelet with brushed outer links and polished center links. The clasp can be adjusted on the fly without tools and has three holes for fine adjustment. The bracelet also has a quick-release spring bar, so if you want something more comfortable and lightweight, you can easily swap it out for the included Tropic-style rubber. If you’re still looking for something different, the 20mm lug width gives you plenty of aftermarket strap options like NATO and sailcloth. The advantage of such a colorful dial is that there are many highlight and complementary colors to choose from.
judgment
Sternglass prides itself on its Bauhaus design, but it’s safe to say that Merion deviates quite a bit from the style’s usual standards. That said, the roots are definitely still visible, and it’s appealing to those who have always enjoyed Bauhaus, or those who normally avoid Bauhaus. As a dive watch, it’s a competent performer with decent water resistance and specs, and the value proposition is solid. The inclusion of an additional rubber strap is just a bonus, and the ability to adjust the bracelet without tools is a welcome feature on an affordable watch.
Stern glass merion price and availability
Sternglas Merion is currently available for purchase from the brand’s website. Price: $749
Brand Sternglas Model Merion Case dimensions 41mm (D) x 14mm (T) x 49mm (LTL) Case material Stainless steel Water resistance 200 meters Crystal Sapphire with anti-reflective coating Dial Green and orange
Black and red lug width 20mm strap steel bracelet with tool-free adjustment clasp
Rubber Tropic Style Strap, Pin Buckle Movement Seiko NH35, Automatic Power Reserve 41 Hours Features Hours, Minutes, Seconds, Date, Internal Dive Bezel Availability Current Price $749
