Habring² has scaled down its signature split-seconds chronograph to create the Doppel 38, which retains all of the key features of the original but in a more compact case. Still having the “bullhead” pusher layout that characterises the split-seconds chronographs of Habring², the Doppel 38 is smaller and thinner than its predecessor, but continues to be powered by the proprietary hand-wound A11R calibre.

Initial thoughts

Long one of the best values in terms of sub-US$10,000 chronographs, the Doppel is perhaps the archetypal Habring² watch since it’s descended from the complication Mr Habring invented at IWC three decades ago. Now vastly improved and refined by Mr Habring, the Doppel possibly the most accessible split-seconds chronograph on the market – in itself a major point of appeal.

But the original Doppel was 42 mm, not massive but large enough to make someone who prefers smaller watches think twice. Personally I thought the larger Doppel was sized well for its particular type of complication, but the Doppel 38 is unexpectedly compact, especially at just 11.5 mm high.

Beyond making it more wearable for more people, the new dimensions will no doubt give the Doppel 38 a slightly more retro feel, although the dial styles on offer are thoroughly modern. And it remains affordable as such things go, with a retail price of about US$7,900 before taxes.

A value-proposition split-seconds

Like many of the recent watches from the brand, the Doppel 38 is simple in style but yet recognisable as a Habring². For one, the “bullhead” pushers and italic logo under 12 o’clock are synonymous with the brand. More discreet but equally original are the Arabic numerals on the dial that are rendered in a typeface custom designed for Habring² by Lee Yuen-Rapati, a Canadian designer based in London.

The Doppel 38 is offered with one case type for now but with four different dials. Though all the dials share many elements, they are distinct, especially the version with faux-vintage lume and another with a fashionable “salmon” finish.

The steel case measures 38.5 mm in diameter, though the bezel is slightly wider at 41 mm. And notably, the watch is only 11.5 mm tall excluding the domed crystal, giving it an unusually slim profile for a rattrapante.

The Doppel 38 contains the A11R-H1, a manual-wind split-seconds chronograph calibre. Having been refined over the years in both technical and decorative aspects, the A11R-H1 visible through the sapphire back is appealing, especially with the perlage on the bridges and blued steel chronograph components. At the same time, all of the chronograph levers are straight grained on top and bevelled along their edges.

The A11R-H1 is a member of Habring²’s A11 family of movements. Developed in-house by Habring² with the architecture of the Valjoux 7750 as the scaffolding, the A11 is a proprietary calibre that is unique to Habring². Importantly, practically none of the components inside are interchangeable with those from a 7750.

Key facts and price

Habring² Doppel 38

Case diameter: 38.5 mm (bezel 41 mm)
Height: 13 mm including crystal; 11.5 mm excluding crystal
Material: Steel
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: 30 m

Movement: A11R-H1
Features: Hours, minutes, and split-seconds chronograph
Winding: Hand-wind
Frequency: 28,800 beats per hour (4 Hz)
Power reserve: 48 hours

Strap: Leather with pin buckle

Limited edition: No
Availability: Direct from Habring² or its retailers
Price: €9,250 including 20% VAT

For more, visit Habring2.com.