Hanhart PIONEER MonoScope black, fluted bezel

The Pioneer MonoScope from Hanhart impresses with its unique single-pusher technology, which controls all chronograph functions. This feature is reminiscent of the brand's legendary predecessors, which also used only a single pusher. Particularly striking are the widely spaced displays for the small seconds and the 30-minute counter, which pay homage to the historical precision watches of the Swiss-German traditional brand.

The heart of this watch is an automatic movement, specially adapted to control the functions with just one pusher. It ticks within a generous stainless steel case with a diameter of 45 millimeters. In contrast to other models, the lever located at four o'clock remains non-functional. Instead, a large gear lever controls the third strike on the chronograph cam. This is made possible by a modified lower level of the cam, which now features an additional tooth. This allows the gear lever to control three positions, instead of the usual two.

Another technical refinement of this watch is the positioning of the displays for the small seconds and the 30-minute counter on the periphery of the dial. This arrangement is inspired by the classic Hanhart models of the 1930s, which were inspired by the 15.5-line manufacture caliber used at the time. The symmetry of the dial is emphasized by the arrangement of the displays along a vertical axis to the numerals 2 and 4, as well as 8 and 10. This ensures a harmonious and balanced aesthetic.

Historically, in 1938, Hanhart developed a special single-pusher chronograph for naval officers, which utilized the in-house "Calibre 40". In this mechanism, start, stop, and reset are executed in a fixed sequence via the same pusher. A significant difference from models with two pushers is that the chronograph seconds hand cannot be resumed after stopping; instead, it immediately jumps back to the zero position with the next press.

To ensure the robustness and water resistance of the Pioneer MonoScope, it features a screw-down case back with three indentations for the case wrench. This is complemented by a riveted strap made of durable calfskin, which feels comfortable from the start. A high-quality pin buckle ensures a secure fit on the wrist. For additional options, bund straps in various shades of brown and a stainless steel bracelet are also available.

Another distinctive detail of the Pioneer collection is the red reset pusher. This particularity stems from a charming legend: One day, a young pilot discovered that his wife had painted the pusher with red nail polish so that he would always think of her and return safely. Since 1939, this red pusher has become an unmistakable trademark of Hanhart. It helped pilots prevent accidental resetting of the stopped time during flight, thus helping them stay on course.

The Pioneer MonoScope thus combines historical elements and innovative technology in a beautifully designed, timeless watch. This combination makes it an ideal choice for lovers of classic chronographs with modern demands.

Specifications

• Case
• Diameter: 45 mm
• Height: 16 mm
• Material: Stainless steel
• Bezel: Smooth design
• Crystal: Convex, anti-reflective sapphire crystal on both sides
• Case back: Screwed case back
• Water resistance: Up to 10 bar (10 ATM) according to DIN 8310
• Movement
• Caliber: Automatic chronograph movement HAN4212, based on ETA 7750 with La Joux-Perret module
• Modification: Single-pusher chronograph mechanism
• Frequency: 28,800 semi-oscillations per hour (A/h), 4 Hz
• Jewels: 31 jewels
• Power reserve: 42 hours when fully wound
• Functions
• Chronograph: Single-pusher function for start, stop, and reset
• Small seconds
• 30-minute counter
• Dial
• Color: Deep black
• Numerals & hands: With Super-LumiNova® coating for optimal readability in the dark
• Strap
• Material: High-quality calfskin
• Colors:
• Black with rivets
• Dark brown with rivets
• Light brown with rivets
• Clasp: Pin buckle