Founded in 2004 by husband-and-wife duo Richard and Maria Habring in the small town of Völkermarkt, Austria, Habring2 produces some of the most understated and technically impressive timepieces on the market for their relatively affordable price points. With a growing reputation for astoundingly well-produced timepieces, Habring2 joined with watch publication Monochrome Watches in 2021 to celebrate Monochrome’s 15 year anniversary with their very first collaboration timepiece; the MONOCHROME Montre De Souscription 1. Limited to just 33 timepieces, the MDS1 was, as its name suggests, sold via Souscription, an old system watchmakers would use whereby half of the watch was paid for before production, with the other half due upon delivery. Inspired by mid-century chronographs, the MDS1 boasts a stunning salmon sector dial like those of the 1940s and an in-house manual-wind chronograph movement produced by Habring2. Featuring a 38.5mm diameter stainless steel construction with a flat brushed bezel and case, the MDS1 merges modern-day sensibilities with its mid-century inspiration to produce a stunning experience on the wrist that is deserving of Habring2’s reputation and its place as Monochrome’s very first collaboration timepiece.

The watch is in overall near-mint condition. The steel case shows light signs of wear. The display case back is very clean, with crisp engravings around the outer edge. The salmon sector dial is like new, as are the hands. The watch is fitted with a brown leather strap and steel M-signed pin buckle, both in near-mint condition. It comes complete with boxes, papers, spare hands, and gaskets.

A wonderful testament to Habring2 and Monochrome's talents as watchmakers and designers, the the MDS1 is a beautifully executed celebration of the mid-century chronographs that have gripped watch collectors for decades.