MeisterSinger Benjamin Franklin Edition

Premiere at the WindUp Watch fair in New York on October 20th: A watch in the style of Benjamin Franklin. MeisterSinger introduces an exceptional USA edition based on an invention by Benjamin Franklin. Limited to 70 pieces.

The power of simplicity

MeisterSinger, with its single-hand watches, embodies the power of simplicity and reduction. The single-hand concept dates back to the beginnings of watchmaking, where, up until Benjamin Franklin's time – that is, into the 18th century – all mechanical watches were single-hand watches. With the Benjamin Franklin Edition, MeisterSinger pays tribute to a man who left a profound impact on the modern world. At the same time, the single-hand watch brand implements Franklin's very own 4-hour clock concept and uniquely varies the minimalist functionality of a single-hand dial.

Benjamin Franklin: The Polymath

Benjamin Franklin is undoubtedly one of the most outstanding figures in American history. As one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, he is among the personalities who have significantly shaped our Western democracies to this day.

Furthermore, he initiated numerous charitable projects and was a member of various European scientific societies. Fascinated by the scientific discoveries of his time and driven by a desire to promote the common good, he also played a significant role as an inventor. The lightning rod can be attributed to his inventive spirit, and he also developed the precursor to the bifocal glasses and an efficient, non-sooting stove. Few are aware that in 1733, Franklin also published a clock concept, which he co-developed with the Scottish astronomer James Ferguson.

The Benjamin Franklin clock

The concept of this clock is based on a single hour hand that rotates six times a day, instead of twice. Therefore, after a 360° rotation, 4 hours have passed. When the hand points straight up, it is either 4, 8, or 12 o'clock AM or PM. Thus, the viewer is expected to know which 4-hour period they are currently in. For nearly a century, Franklin's clock concept seemed to enjoy some popularity. Today, it is all but forgotten, even though the clock is quite suitable for everyday use. What was the reason for this invention? As so often, he was striving here too to make the lives of his fellow men easier. With his invention, he found a way to simplify the mechanics of a clockwork, allowing even the American colonists of his time to have an affordable clock.

Limited to 70 pieces

For MeisterSinger, it was a true pleasure to recreate this unique single-hand watch. The classic 43mm case frames the shiny white dial, which is graphically divided into quadrants. The bold Roman numerals from 1 to 12 are arranged in a spiral towards the center. Though moving a bit faster than usual, the central, meticulously heat-blued hand still rotates at a leisurely pace.

The Franklin Edition is powered by an ETA/Unitas 6498, modified for the 4-hour concept, with a power reserve of 46 hours. The see-through case back allows one to observe the movement, originally designed for pocket watches. The impressive movement, with its sunburst-finished wheels, blued screws, and a bridge decorated with Geneva stripes, fascinates every mechanical watch enthusiast.

In a limited run of only 70 pieces, MeisterSinger presents the Benjamin Franklin Edition as an exceptional watch and a true collector's item.

The watch collectors were able to discover the Benjamin Franklin Edition at the WindUp Watch Fair in New York between October 20th and October 22nd .

Technical specifications

MeisterSinger Benjamin Franklin Edition

Reference: ED-BF4H

Limited edition of 70 pieces

Case

• Material: Stainless steel
• Diameter: 43mm
• Thickness: 11.50 mm
• Glass: Sapphire crystal
• 4 screws exhibition back
• Water-resistant to 50 meters (5 bar)
• Lug width: 20mm

Dial and hand

• Polished white dial, graphically divided into quadrants
• Black Roman numerals
• Blued hand

Movement

• ETA/Unitas 6498
• Unique modified Unitas pocket watch movement
• Manual winding
• Power reserve of 46 hours

Functions/Indications

• Hours and minutes
• 4-hour watch

Strap and buckle

• Calf leather with croco print, cognac

MSRP: USD 5'599

For more information, please visit meistersinger.com