Sinn × The Rake & Revolution 155 Bundeswehr “Dark Star”
In tandem with the specialist watch magazine Revolution, we are presenting the 150-unit, special-limited-edition 155 Revolution, with its historically inspired design.
The ‘wristwatch with double stopwatch’ (as it was originally known by the Bundeswehr – the German armed forces – during the 1960s), which was sold in very limited quantities during the 1980s and early 1990s, is now one of the most sought-after collector’s watches in our company.
Back then, the company purchased phased-out watches from the inventories of the Bundeswehr (Heuer-Leonidas SA 1550 SG, shortened to Heuer 1550 SG) and sold these after reconditioning with, inter alia, added SINN lettering on the dial under the label ‘Bundeswehr Chronograph for Pilots’ as Model 155 Bw. These impressive pilot watches with flyback function were fitted with a Valjoux 230 handwound chronograph movement and a pilot’s bezel.
The design of the 155 Revolution is consistent with this historic model: the bead blasted case with a diameter of 43 mm, the convex acrylic glass, the grey pilot’s bezel manufactured from anodized aluminum, and the ivory coloured luminous gauge on the dial and hands, are distinctly reminiscent of the pilot- chronograph tradition. Even with the black, leather underlay strap with the stamped supply number, we have stayed true to the original model. Moreover, the 155 Revolution is available with a beige textile strap, which colour-blends perfectly with the ivory luminous paint.
As a symbol of the cooperation with the specialist watch-magazine, Revolution, the matt-black dial is adorned with a discreet, shiny-black ‘Revolution star’. In selecting the watch mechanism, we placed our trust in the modern, automatic calibre SW 510 from the Swiss manufacturer Sellita. This enables a horizontal bicompax division and central stopwatch-second display, true to the historic model, with the seconds display at 9 o’clock and the stopwatch minute display at 3 o’clock.
In recent history, Sinn has only allowed two limited re-editions of their fabled 155 Bundeswehr military chronograph.
The first was in 2005 for the Japanese market in the original configuration, and in 2008, an automatic variation.
Made in 200 and 272 pieces respectively, both watches are modern cult collectables and command significant premiums over their retail prices today.
Now, in 2019, we’re honored to collaborate with Sinn on the third re-issue of the iconic 155 Bundeswehr, which we feel offers the best of both worlds.
We’ve gone back to the original two-counter configuration without date, and added a cream-colored patina to the indexes and hands for the aged tritium look, and even included a very subtle fade to the rotating bezel so that in strong direct light it gives off hues of purple.
The case is matte just as the original, and comes in the same 43mm dimension as the vintage watches. We’ve also kept the original Bund strap.
For added value, we’ve also commissioned a heavy-duty sand-colored NATO strap with brushed keepers and provided a strap-changing tool.
Featured at six o’clock on the dial is a very subtle black-on-black star in the exact place where the “3H” marking (designating the existence of tritium) appeared on the military watches. It is this small detail that gives the watch its sobriquet the Sinn × Revolution 155 Bundeswehr “Dark Star”.
Information:
Pre-Owned: Sinn × The Rake & Revolution 155 Bundeswehr “Dark Star”
Limited: 150 Pieces
Dated: 2019
Strap: Black leather Bund Strap and Tan Nylon NATO
Case Size: 43mm
Case Metal: Matte Stainless Steel
Movement: SW 510 - Automatic - Running spec
Functions: Hours, Minutes, Second, Chronograph
Accessories: Inner/outer boxes, strap changing tool, and warranty card
Crystal: Acrylic
Bracelet size: 7.75”
Condition: Great Pre-Owned Condition
Case has no wear and is in great shape. Bund strap has little to no wear with minimal creasing. Dial, hands, and crystal are in perfect shape. Watch is running spec.
History of Sinn Watches
Founded in 1961 by Helmut Sinn, a former World War II pilot and blind flight instructor, Sinn Watch Company quickly gained recognition for its aviation-inspired timepieces. Specializing in navigation clocks and pilot chronographs, Sinn's reputation for precision and durability was cemented during the 1980s and 1990s when their watches accompanied German astronauts on several space missions. These accomplishments demonstrated the brand's commitment to creating reliable timepieces capable of withstanding extreme conditions.
A new era began in 1994 when certified engineer Lothar Schmidt acquired the company, introducing significant technological advancements. Under Schmidt's leadership, Sinn pioneered innovations such as Ar-Dehumidifying Technology, DIAPAL lubrication-free escapements, and TEGIMENT hardened steel cases. Today, Sinn remains at the forefront of horological innovation, producing high-quality timepieces that blend traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology. The brand's dedication to excellence and continuous improvement ensures its lasting legacy in the world of high-end watchmaking.
