SCHAFFEN REFERENCE 65: CUSTOM TIMEPIECES WITH ROTORS DESIGNED BY YOU
Where bespoke timepieces were once an option offered only by luxury brands or independents, Schaffen was founded to push the boundaries on watch customization. Since its inception in 2016, Schaffen has made hundreds of personalized timepieces. Today, we take a look at the next phase of development of the young brand as it releases its new collection of automatic watches.
Schaffen Reference 65
The first of its kind in this price bracket, the Reference 65 takes customization to the next level by delving into the movement of the watch. It introduces a unique and rarely seen customization option: the rotor. The rotor, an oscillating weight that winds an automatic timepiece, is as much aesthetic as it is functional.
To design a rotor, one can send artworks in the form of a vector image, photo, or words to be skeletonized or engraved onto the rotor. Every piece is made-to-order based on the customer’s artwork, truly making each watch one-of-a-kind. And for fans who are intrigued and want a premium upgrade, rotors can be further plated in 18K Gold (yellow, red or white).
Further customization options include having a unique signature or motif on the dial and configuring components such as choosing hands colors and whether to have a date window.
The Reference 65 introduces two collections – the S65 and the A65. The S65 is a Genta-inspired model which bears an integrated leather strap. The case is at a versatile size of 39.5mm and the dial is finished with a horizontally-ridged texture, a novel design that highlights the focus on details.
The A65 is a timeless classic inspired by dual-toned dials of the 50s. The dial of the A65 is vertically brushed in the centre, with a matte outer ring containing high-polished appliqués. Both the appliqués and watch hands are faceted, reflecting light in a mesmerizing manner. The finishing of the case is impressive, comparable to watches well beyond its price bracket.
The Reference 65 watches are powered by the Swiss made Sellita SW200-1 in Élaboré grade, a reliable workhorse guaranteed to last years, further adorned with heated blue screws. Quality materials include sapphire crystals both front and back, as well as the 316L stainless steel construction.
The Reference 65 is available on Kickstarter now. At the time of writing, there are limited super early-birds left, where the S65 is available at US $499 and the A65 at US $439.
