Those on a relative budget wanting a nice sport watch should take a good look at the 1972 collection of timepieces from German brand Junghans. Often known for their atomic clock controlled watches, Junghans has an interesting assortment of both modern and vintage inspired quartz or mechanical watches. The 1972 collection takes direction and inspiration from sport-themed watches made in that era. Though, there is a slick modern edge to the designs which fits the brand’s larger collection of timepieces. I do enjoy how they took a classic look and updated it a bit.
Junghans is among the few brands that uses many movements derived from Seiko. The 1972 collection currently has three movement options, and I believe that at least two of them are Seiko Japanese quartz calibers. Two of the movements are “Solar” meaning that they use light to recharge the batteries.
The 1972 collection watches each have a 43.3mm wide steel case, with a rotating diver’s bezel in either steel or black tone. The case designs are masculine and attractive with a distinct vintage twist. You’ll find an assortment of strap options as well as a nice metal bracelet. The dials have a sapphire crystal and the cases are water resistant to 100 meters.
Entry level for the collection is the 1972 Chronoscope Quartz watch. This has a 60 minute chronograph and 24 hour display (AM/PM indicator), along with the date. There are three dial color options (black with orange, blue and white, or white and black). While basic, these are arguably the best looking of the bunch and are priced at 549 Euros.
Next you have the 1972 Chronoscope Solar. This watch contains a quartz chronograph movement with alarm. The movement is also light powered. Seiko fans will clearly recognize this movement. Aside from some color changes and a different dial, this watch is similar in theme to the 1972 Chronoscope Quartz. These 1972 Chronoscope Solar watches will retail for 649 Euros. Topping the current 1972 collection is the 1972 Mega Solar. Based on the existing Junghans Mega Solar collection, this watch contains their popular atomic clock controlled, solar powered quartz movement. You can find this movement in other pieces as well. The analog display is augmented with a small LCD screen on the dial. These pieces offer an interesting take on the retro 1972 theme with a complication and function that would not have been available in that era. This Junghans 1972 Mega Solar retails for 699 Euros.