Since its debut in 1998, the enduring allure of Sinn‘s 356 pilot chronograph has been anchored in its timeless proportions—an utilitarian pilot’s chronograph sized at 38.5mm. In an era dominated by oversized wristwatches, it positioned itself as the quintessential choice for those in pursuit of an elegantly proportioned pilot’s watch at an unbeatable price. Remaining in continuous production, the watch’s impeccable executions over the years serve as a testament to the enduring appeal of classic designs and proportions.
The narrative of the watchmaker’s pragmatic pilot’s chronograph unfolds in the mid-1990s, when the company introduced a special edition chronograph exclusively available in Japan. The idea behind its creation was to provide a more wearable iteration of Sinn’s 256 pilot chronograph. Limited to just 300 pieces, it ran on the hand-wound Valjoux 7760 movement.
It is crucial to recall that the 1990s witnessed the rising popularity of large-wearing watches. Discerning watch buyers in Japan recognised Sinn’s 300-piece limited edition as a brilliant option for those seeking a chronograph in classic proportions. The success of this limited edition prompted Sinn to launch the 38.5mm 356 pilot chronograph in 1998, globally accessible and powered by the self-winding Valjoux 7750 movement.
The 356 pilot chronograph persisted in production throughout the 2000s, enduring the trend for larger wristwatches. For the longest time, it remained the sole choice for anyone desiring an elegantly sized pilot’s watch with an unbeatable price tag. Numerous exceptional versions of the watch have emerged, highlighting the enduring appeal of classic designs and proportions.
In late 2023, Sinn commemorated the 25th anniversary of its beloved 356 pilot chronograph with a contemporary relaunch, unveiling the iconic watch in three distinct variations: the 356 Pilot Classic AS E, the 356 Pilot Classic Anniversary, and the particularly eye-catching 356 Pilot Classic W. All three maintain the original 38.5mm diameter and are equipped with the robust SW 510 movement. The Sellita calibre, a favoured choice among many watchmakers, ensures reliable timekeeping and incorporates a chronograph mechanism with the added convenience of a seconds stop function for precise time setting. Sinn’s modifications to the movement render it anti-magnetic, certified according to DIN 8309, the German equivalent of ISO certifications.
The coveted 356 Pilot Classic W, with its matte-silk white dial and black subdials in the classic “panda” configuration, emerges as a standout favourite. Featuring luminescent black Arabic numerals, the watch dial is further enhanced at six o’clock with the unmistakable lettering “FLIEGER KLASSIK”, a nod to its 25 years history and also a novelty in this series. Housed in a stainless steel case with a bead-blasted treatment, the 356 Pilot Classic W embodies timeless elegance.
The Sinn 356 Pilot Classic W in stainless steel is available for purchase at all Watches of Switzerland Singapore boutiques.
