Today, I want to introduce a brand I’ve been eager to share on my blog. It’s the Austrian brand Habring². Before diving into a model from their collection, let’s revisit the history of this brand and its founders.
Immersed in haute horlogerie from a young age, Richard Habring trained at the renowned watchmaking school in Karlstein, Austria, in 1985, where the first clock bearing the “Habring” signature was born. After completing his studies, Richard ventured into the restoration and repair of high-quality antique clocks and watches.
During his time revitalizing old timepieces, he continually questioned the engineering and construction of watch movements, seeking innovative solutions in movement design. His exceptional talent led him to produce his first minute tourbillon within a tiny inline movement. This marked the beginning of his illustrious career as a master watchmaker with prestigious houses such as IWC, A. Lange & Söhne, and Jaeger-LeCoultre.
In 2004, he founded Habring² in Völkermarkt, Austria, alongside his wife Maria. The brand name “Habring²” symbolizes the union, synergy, and dynamic partnership of this couple. Richard Habring’s professional journey is closely tied to Günter Blümlein, his mentor and sponsor for many years. This family-run brand stands out by offering timepieces with a high level of craftsmanship, often featuring unique displays such as deadbeat seconds or jumping seconds.
Today, I’m excited to introduce the Habring² Doppel 38, a split-seconds chronograph that, since 2023, replaces the Habring² Doppel Felix. With a more compact design, this chronograph is available in various dial colors, including a stunning salmon version. Let’s explore the watch in detail.
Table of Contents – Habring² Doppel 38
What are the features of the Habring² Doppel 38 ?
Case
The Habring² Doppel 38 features a stainless steel 316L case, catering to collectors’ demand for more compact timepieces. Water-resistant up to 30 meters, it measures 38.5 mm in diameter and 11.5 mm thick (excluding the sapphire crystal), which is quite reasonable for a chronograph. Its sophisticated construction includes multiple levels, blending brushed surfaces on the sides with polished elements on the lugs, pushers, and bezel.
Dial
The Habring² Doppel 38 boasts a beautiful salmon-colored dial. Complemented by blued, curved hands with exceptional precision and polished Breguet-style numerals, the design is simple yet captivating. This soothing hue adds a unique charm, making it a pleasure to admire.
Movement
Inside the Habring² Doppel 38 beats the manual-winding A11R-H1 movement. Designed and assembled in-house, it uses components either produced locally or sourced from nearby suppliers. With a 48-hour power reserve and a frequency of 4 Hz, this caliber is derived from the Valjoux 7750. Although it retains the reliable cam-switch system, it has been entirely reworked for improved manual finishing, enhanced precision, and reduced thickness.
The movement features an anti-magnetic escapement with a Carl Haas hairspring, a KIF shock protection system, and a fine adjustment via a tangential screw. It’s meticulously decorated, showcasing brushed, perlage, and beveled finishes throughout.
Strap
The Habring² Doppel 38 comes with a comfortable green nubuck strap. However, one small drawback is that the buckle isn’t signed. While the focus remains on the watch’s movement, these little details could elevate the overall experience.
How Much Does the Habring² Doppel 38 Cost?
The Habring² Doppel 38 is available for order (without limitation) at €9,250, including 20% VAT.
Habring² Doppel 38: The Chronograph That Proves “Small Is Beautiful”
The Habring² Doppel 38 is an enchanting timepiece, combining elegance with its compact dimensions. Offering a split-seconds chronograph at this level of craftsmanship is unprecedented. It’s arguably one of the most accessible split-seconds watches on the market, featuring a distinctive, non-generic movement and embodying the spirit of independent watchmaking.
I deeply admire Habring²’s commitment to detail and quality. Producing approximately 400 pieces annually, the brand maintains exclusivity while offering a range of models. This particular piece is perfect for discerning collectors who appreciate its refined craftsmanship.
You can discover these watches at Gobbi Gioielleria Orologeria, located by Lake Garda, where you’ll be warmly welcomed by Nicola Gobbi, a true watch enthusiast with whom I had a great conversation.
Habring² Doppel 38 – Watch Specifications
- Brand: Habring²
- Model: Doppel 38
- Case Material: Stainless Steel
- Dial: Salmon Dial
- Functions: Hours, Minutes, Small Seconds, Split-Seconds DoppledChronograph with 30-minute counter and 2 central seconds hands
- Movement: A11R_H1, In-House, Manual-Winding, 28’800vph frequency (4 Hz), 27 jewels
- Power Reserve: 48 Hours
- Water Resistance: 3 ATM
- Crystal: Sapphire
- Case Back: Sapphire
- Case Dimension: 38.5 mm (Diameter) × 11.5 mm (Thickness)
- Lug to lug : 47 mm
- Strap: Nubuck Leather with Stainless Steel Pin Buckle
- Availability: Available now in Gobbi Gioielleria Orologeria
- Retail Price: € 9’250 (Including 20% VAT)
Are you familiar with this niche brand? Share your thoughts on this timepiece in the comments below.
For more information about Habring², click here.
