Habring² Monopusher Chronograph Japan Edition for Shellman

sold

A collaboration between the Japan-based specialist independent retailer Shellman and Austrian independents Habring², the Shellman Monopusher features a snail-shaped tachymeter with a telemetre on the outer track that feels entirely original despite its vintage aesthetic.

Enquire about this watch

This is the Habring² Monopusher Chronograph Japan Edition. Habring² is an independent brand founded by Austrian couple, Maria Kristina and Richard Habring. While the name may seem have been unfamiliar to the most in the past, all has changed with the rise in popularity of the independents. Richard Habring has credentials as good as any watchmaker, and was the man in charge of producing the rattrapante, or split-seconds chronograph, at IWC. Together with his wife, Maria, they produce a very limited number of watches a year (less than 50) with their eponymous brand, Habring².

The aforementioned Shellman Monopusher was a result of the brand’s collaboration with Japan-based specialist independent retailer, Shellman. It was also the final limited edition in 36mm before the Habrings made the move to a 38.5mm case. The brand no longer produces in the 36mm case except in very rare occasions and it is almost a guarantee that this exact configuration of the dial and case will never be replicated.

The movement is based on a heavily-modified Valjoux 7750, vastly improved into the Habrings’ own Cal. A08-MONO. It is only fitting as the Valjoux 7750 was the movement used for IWC’s Doppelchronograph in his time there. It’s not just vastly improved but also excellently finished, especially for its price point. Besides the impressive movement, the dial is also a work of vintage-inspired art in a compact, stainless steel case befitting of the Japanese market with their subtle tastes.

At the centre of the dial is a snail-shaped tachymeter flanked by the two chronograph registers. The hour numerals are Breguet-style with a telemeter on the outer track. This is all arranged in a way that in spite of the 36mm case size, the watch is highly legible with blue steel hands on the silver brushed dial. The case features a stepped bezel and with the single pusher at the 2. It is clear where the brand took inspiration from and despite the similarities to vintage chronographs, the Shellman Monopusher Chronograph feels entirely original.

With the low production numbers estimated to be five in each colour, this edition is one that is rarely found for sale. It remains one of the most elusive and desirable collaborations from the brand. While Habring² was under the radar once upon a time, the brand is no stranger to collaborations and is among the most sought after due to their relative affordability, aesthetic beauty and technical prowess. In addition, the brand keeps their timepieces relatively affordable. With the growing appreciation of independents, it’s easy to see why Habring² is one of the most beloved brands in horology today.