MeisterSinger Pays Tribute to Notre-Dame de Paris
To mark the reopening of Notre-Dame de Paris in December 2024, watchmaking Maison MeisterSinger unveils a unique and highly symbolic creation: the Edition Notre-Dame. Limited to just 70 pieces, this exclusive timepiece pays tribute to the cathedral’s majesty and to MeisterSinger’s watchmaking expertise. Recreating Notre-Dame’s iconic rose window on the dial, the watch brings together Gothic art and horological precision—enhanced by an hourly striking mechanism.
A watch inspired by history and Gothic architecture
Since its construction was completed in the 14th century, Notre-Dame de Paris has stood as a landmark for France and an architectural icon worldwide. Each year, the cathedral draws millions of visitors, captivated by its beauty and its history. In April 2019, a devastating fire partially destroyed its roof and spire, marking a painful moment for French heritage. After intensive restoration work, the cathedral is ready to reopen its doors—an occasion MeisterSinger has chosen to commemorate by launching this special edition.
Manfred Brassler, founder and designer of MeisterSinger, set out to create a watch that captures the essence and grandeur of Notre-Dame. “We developed this watch with the greatest care and the greatest enthusiasm so that it does justice to the icon that inspired it,” he explains. The Edition Notre-Dame is thus conceived as a true horological tribute to Gothic architecture, while embodying the precision and elegance that define MeisterSinger.
A dial that evokes Notre-Dame’s rose window
The dial of the Edition Notre-Dame is unquestionably its most captivating feature. Inspired by the cathedral’s rose windows—true masterpieces of Gothic architecture—the centre of the dial is meticulously engraved to recreate the look of these colourful stained-glass windows. Set against a deep blue background, the ivory rose window stands out brilliantly, giving the watch a depth and elegance that immediately draws the eye.
Housed in a 43 mm stainless-steel case, this single-hand watch presents a refined, timeless aesthetic. The slim bezel and relief dial create a subtle play of light, enhancing the contrast between blue and ivory. The watch’s single hand—MeisterSinger’s signature—is designed with a red arrow tip, enabling intuitive and precise time reading, perfectly aligned with the brand’s spirit of simplicity and functionality.
An hourly striking mechanism
Beyond its inspiring design, the Edition Notre-Dame also stands out for its distinctive hourly striking mechanism. Integrated into the MS Bell movement developed by MeisterSinger, this device allows the watch to mark the passing of the hours with an audible chime. A tuning fork positioned behind the dial is gently struck on the hour, producing a discreet yet memorable sound.
The chime can be activated or deactivated via a pusher located above the crown, giving the wearer the freedom to enjoy this audible reminder or keep the watch silent. This system pays homage to the bells of Notre-Dame, adding an emotional dimension to the timepiece and underscoring the importance of sound in our experience of time.
Exceptional finishing and a reliable automatic movement
The Edition Notre-Dame is powered by an MS Bell automatic movement based on the Sellita SW200 calibre, ensuring optimal accuracy and reliability. This calibre offers a 38-hour power reserve, allowing the watch to run uninterrupted for more than a day. The caseback, decorated with a reproduction of the rose window and the edition number, is complemented by a transparent sapphire crystal back, allowing the movement’s finishing to be admired.
This attention to detail is also reflected in the cognac calfskin strap, oak-bark tanned and hand-dyed, adding a touch of tradition and craftsmanship to this exceptional watch. Delivered in a special presentation box with a photograph of the cathedral, the Edition Notre-Dame is as much a collector’s object as it is a tribute to French heritage.
A limited series within reach of enthusiasts
With only 70 pieces produced, this limited edition is a true treasure for collectors and watch enthusiasts alike. Of these 70 watches, 20 pieces will be reserved exclusively for members of the Club MeisterSinger, while the remaining 50 will be available online via Ocarat and at the Ochrono boutique in Paris.
The watch’s rarity and unique design make it a coveted object for those who wish to own a piece of history, paying tribute to a world-renowned monument. Priced at €4,599, the Edition Notre-Dame offers excellent value for money for a model that is both exclusive and rich in historical significance.
A horological tribute to timeless heritage
MeisterSinger’s Edition Notre-Dame showcases watchmaking at its finest, blending Gothic aesthetics, artisanal craftsmanship and modern technology. With its dial inspired by Notre-Dame’s rose window, its hourly striking mechanism and its distinctive design, this watch does more than tell the time; it tells a story and celebrates the resilience of an iconic monument.
For lovers of watchmaking and heritage, this watch represents a unique opportunity to own a timepiece that captures the essence of Notre-Dame de Paris. Through its thoughtful design and attention to detail, MeisterSinger reminds us that watchmaking is an art that goes beyond time, evoking memory and culture at every moment.
