🚨 New Watch Alert 🚨 Hanhart 417 ES Reverse Panda 🚨

Good morning Crunchers! I am more than thrilled to add this Hanhart 417es Reverse Panda to my collection. The first time I came across Hanhart were posts from Rich @Magstime and Per @YourIntruder. Per posted his thoughts on a few pilots watches he was scoping out for 2024 about 8-9 months ago. A really good read.

As I began researching the brand I saw more models I liked. Not only the Pioneers, but Racemaster and Primus models and within those the different variants. It felt like an impossible choice. The baseline for my decision was that it had to be a flybadk chronograph. This led me right back to the Pioneer, which truth be told was what I preferred anyhow.

This is my first automatic chronograph and it happens to be a "flyback". I wanted the open caseback so I could see the exposed column wheel. Thanks Jae @JaeBust for recommending the 39mm variant (clearly I'm stubborn). Luckily while at a Redbar event someone had both a 39mm and 42mm. The 42mm felt and looked better on my somewhat larger sized wrists. Did I mention I wanted to see the column wheel;).

From Hanrharts Website: German Air Force, was equipped with “Temposchaltung”, as the flyback function is also called. The mechanism allows immediate measurement of a new timing interval by using the reset pusher. The new, first-class AMT5100 M calibre originates from Sellita’s manufacture AMT department. It controls the chronograph via column wheel and has a power reserve of at least 58 hours when fully wound.

The Reverse Panda was my choice in the end. I really appreciated the contrast of white numerals and subdials against the deep black dial. The kicker is Hanhart made the subdials luminous. It looks great in pictures however in person it's dare I say breathtaking!

The historical logo can do nothing but be appreciated from those who not only love history but something a bit different in terms of typography. The fluted rotating bezel with the red marking is not only visually appealing but was practical and necessary for German Pilots.

I'm all about boxed crystals and the distortion they create. The high domed crystal looks amazing I assure you, very romantic and a great distraction wheen needed throught the day. The Bicompax Chronograph can be distinguished easily as the 30 minute counter has an arrow at the tip. Another subtle detail that really draws you into the styling and functionality of the watch.

What I love about this platform is everyone's willingness to offer suggestions, advice and their own experiences with watches they own. Thanks Mel, Jae, Rich, Per, Jose, Glen and Tony for your advice and posts on this beautiful watch. It definitely made my choice easier in the end. My apologies if I missed anyone.

If you have gotten this far thanks for reading! Have a Flyback Friday everyone!