1 0F 1. VERY SPECIAL.
A design classic from Marc Newson, this example is an early prototype dating to 1998, that does not have the writing and logo on the dial at 4/5 as per the final production, but splits the wording subtlety within the sub-dials to make the overall look cleaner and more balanced, as Marc Newson, who was obsessed with symmetry throughout his design portfolio, wanted symmetry on the dial. To this end he also did away with the date window of the base 7750 automatic movement, and replaced it with a date sub-dial. The movement was further modified by removing the 12-hour counter for the chronograph and replacing it with a 24 hour GMT hand, which is independently adjusted by the pusher at 8 o’clock. These modifications resulted in the balanced quad-compax panda dial aesthetic.
The 44mm case, considered large at the time, is a super smooth monocoque design that is supremely comfortable to wear. There is a small offset exhibition window in the case-back revealing part of the movement.
The watch is in excellent condition with only a few minor marks in the brushed finish, most notably at 12 o’clock, which would easily brush out if desired. There are no dents or nicks. The watch functions superbly and all buttons/resets are nice and crisp. This watch is both beautifully designed and beautifully constructed.
The watch is on a barely worn new-design black rubber strap from Ikepod (who have made the straps from their new reissue watches backwards compatible). There is also an unworn, sealed in packet, orange version of the same strap that matches the orange of the pushers and Chrono-hand perfectly.
As a real bonus, the watch also comes with its original black, claspless rubber strap as designed by Mr Newson, a version of which found its way onto his Apple Watch designs decades later. These straps are now very rare and pre-owned ones can be up to £400 on their own.
A rare opportunity to own this iconic design classic, as the original Hemipodes seldom come up for sale, most having long since found their way into collections.
All in all, piece of horological art that is also supremely wearable, and has very useful complications including a GMT function with an independently set hand.
WATCH WILL BE FULLY INSPECTED, CHECKED, TESTED AND DETAILED.
12 MONTH WARRANTY SUPPLIED. ANY INSPECTION WELCOME.
PLEASE CONTACT US FOR FURTHER DETAILS.
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