Hanhart Pioneer TwinControl
There are certain brands and certain watch models that I just absolutely love, and ones that I love unapologetically. Hanhart is one of those brands and while this model, the Hanhart Pioneer TwinControl is not my absolute favorite from the storied German manufacture, it is a fantastic watch that I actually had a hard time finding any real negatives. Keep in mind, with the exception of size and the extra pusher, this is extremely similar to the MonoControl model I reviewed about 2 years ago. Make no mistake, I find Hanhart to be a fantastic watch brand with models that more people should know about.
Hanhart Pioneer TwinControl Specifications:
42mm Case
15mm Thick
52mm Lug to Lug
21mm Lug Width
Automatic chronograph movement HAN3809
Basis: ETA7750 with La Joux-Perret module
100 meters water resistant
Calf Leather Strap
Price at Watchbuys: $2540
https://www.watchbuys.com/store/pc/Hanhart-Pioneer-TwinControl-p2133.htm
As I said, the TwinControl is very similar to the MonoControl, but you get a more traditional chronograph, and the size has been upped to 42mm. 42mm is measured without the large crown and pushers though, so it does wear larger than most chronograph watches of this size-something to keep in mind. On my 7 1/2 inch wrist, this watch is very comfortable though it does feel a little top heavy, due to the thick case and the reality is this is just a very solid feeling watch.
If you are looking for a white dial watch, this Hanhart Pioneer TwinControl is not going to be the one for you. I say that because some photos give the impression this dial is white, or off white, while in fact, it is a tan/cream color. I love the color though, as it has a very vintage appeal. Many of the Hanhart Pioneer models have an old time classic feel to them; if you want something a little more modern, check out the Primus models. As always, Hanhart keeps the dial clean and easy to read and operate with 2 sundials, large Arabic numbers and the date in my favorite location, 6 o’clock.
Classic touches such as the coin edge bezel with the red minute marker and the famous red Chronograph pusher make this watch stand out. If the coin edge bezel is not for you, Hanhart offers a standard fixed style bezel also, both in this cream dial and also black. Notice how the pushers are orientated on the case as well, with the upper pusher positioned asymmetrically towards the lugs, which allows for an easy to use chronograph, and one that is easy to wear as well. The massive 8mm crown is easy to pull and set the time and date and gives this watch a more masculine feel. While this watch might be inspired by the original 1939 Hanhart Chronographs, this is not a small or dainty watch.
The case back is classic Hanhart and I can not put my finger on why I love it so much. It is not overly ornate, does not show off the movement, and yet I enjoy looking at it as much as I do the rest of the watch. Maybe refined would be the word to use here, which is a word that can be used to describe the TwinControl in general.
Looking for good lume? Yep, this watch has that too-
If I have one complaint, it has to do with the size of the strap. Not the length, not the quality, not even the buckle (which I tend to ding often on more expensive watches). It is the simple fact that it is not a standard with, coming in at 21mm and not 22mm. That means if you want to change up the strap as most people do, or you just do not like leather or the rivet style strap, you are going to most likely have a custom strap maker make you one in that size. That still limits you only to leather straps, as you really can’t get custom rubber straps made. I am not sure how a rubber strap would actually look on this watch anyways, but you get the point. I hope future productions of these watches start using standard lug widths.
Obviously, it is easy to see that I love this Hanhart Pioneer TwinControl. Even though this would not be my first choice for an everyday piece, it is one that not only do I love the aesthetic but also the overall quality. It is just a fantastic watch in my opinion. As I said, the only thing I would really change would be the lug width, but that really is minor. The included leather strap is wonderful, as most are from Hanhart and fits great on my wrist. Hanhart does rely on a lot of their past designs and continues that design ethos today, and I love that, but I wouldn’t mind seeing a true dive watch from the brand either. Pilot and racing style watches are great, but I can only imagine what a dive watch from them would be like, even a more basic field-style watch would be great to see as well. Bottom line, even though I do not like to “sell” anyone a watch here, I have no issues recommending this piece if you want a watch with classic looks, a great movement, modern touches and something on the wrist that others just will not have. It is another winner from Hanhart, something that does not surprise me at all.
