Sinn 556 "California Sky" ALTHERR Limited Edition

Author: Severin Giesswein

When the sun sets over the vast interior of California, the “Golden State” reveals another of its magical facets. Deserts and dry areas stretch majestically for miles into its heart and develop a fascination of their own.

And this is exactly what we are taking up with the Sinn 556 ALTHERR Limited Edition “California Sky” . The focus is not only on strong contrasts on the dial, but also on the change between day and night, light and shadow, the scorching sun and the blazing moon over the desert.

Sinn 556 "California Sky" ALTHERR Limited Edition. Photo © altherr.de

This spectacle is revealed in all its fullness and splendor from a bird's eye view, making a pilot's watch the natural partner for this special limited collaboration. Sinn Spezialuhren embodies pioneering spirit, thirst for adventure and the love of freedom.

The case of the Sinn 556 California Sky

The Sinn 556 is part of the 556 series and was developed as a versatile everyday watch . It embodies Sinn's principles of functionality and clear readability. Part of this is the dimensions and architecture of the case.

Sinn 556 "California Sky" ALTHERR Limited Edition. Photo © altherr.de

This measures 38.5 mm in diameter and is therefore recommended as universally wearable for every wrist. The short horns and the snug fit on the arm promise a high level of comfort and a look that is sporty and yet reserved at the same time.

Thanks to its height of just 11.5 mm, the timepiece is the perfect accompaniment to any outfit. It cleverly disappears under long sleeves or the cuff of a shirt and still looks great with a sporty look .

Sinn 556 "California Sky" ALTHERR Limited Edition. Photo © altherr.de

The robust bezel is solid and gives the dial its proper space. Like the rest of the case, it is completely brushed , which underlines the toolwatch character of the watch. This makes it less susceptible to scratches.

The Sinn-typical crown protectors nestle around a screw-down crown, which gives the timepiece a comfortable 200 m water resistance . This is by no means typical of a watch with aviation heritage and shows once again that Sinn spares no effort to offer enthusiasts the best possible performance and a carefree wearing experience.

The dial of the Sinn 556 California Sky

However, the absolute highlight of this limited edition is without a doubt the dial . It is unique in Sinn's catalog and history and was made specifically and exclusively for this collaboration.

A deep black provides outstanding contrast and the matte surface helps to avoid reflections. There are only two lines of writing on the sheet to keep its layout as minimalist and function-oriented as possible.

Sinn 556 "California Sky" ALTHERR Limited Edition. Photo © altherr.de

The lack of a date and, for the first time, the lack of a second hand also contribute to this . This tidy look is inspired by the on-board instruments found in the cockpit of aircraft.

For the indices, we at ALTHERR chose a so-called “California dial” . Not only does it literally take up the theme of our limited series, it also gives the Sinn 556 a previously unseen and exclusive appearance.

Sinn 556 "California Sky" ALTHERR Limited Edition. Photo © altherr.de

A mix of Arabic and Roman numerals covered with cream-colored luminous material in the color of desert sand represents the longing for adventure and the call of freedom.

In addition, on our Sinn 556 ALTHERR Limited Edition we replaced the conventional set of hands from the 556 series with those from the EZM series, which further underlines the connection to adventure and ensures a refreshing look . The proximal quarter of the hands is also blackened to create an even more minimalist appearance and give the illusion of floating hands.

The movement and bracelet of the Sinn 556 California Sky

Inside the watch beats the tried and tested Sellita SW200 , which has been regulated by Sinn and raised to the highest standards. It has a 38-hour automatic power reserve and is characterized by its reliability, invulnerability and longevity.

Sinn 556 "California Sky" ALTHERR Limited Edition. Photo © altherr.de

The fully brushed H-Link bracelet also securely secures the timepiece to the arm and skilfully rounds off its look. In typical Sinn style, it has a robust feel, is securely screwed and ends in a folding clasp with milled swing arms made of thick stainless steel.