We're transported back to the year 1850 in Hamburg, Germany. The sky beams with sunlight, casting a magical sparkle upon the Alster lake, nestled right in the heart of this maritime city.
It's a historic moment in Hamburg's history and the world of watersports alike. Along the shore, eager spectators gather, each unwilling to miss the spectacle unfolding before them.
Their gaze fixated on the water, where white sails billow majestically in the wind. Waves crash against the hulls, stirring up spray. Excitement and tension hang in the air.
The wind propels the boats forward, their course set like an arrow toward the starting line. Each vies for the optimal position. Then, a thunderous cannon blast breaks the silence.
The race against time commences.
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Hamburg, a sailor's paradise
This scene mirrors the inaugural sailing regatta held on the Outer Alster lake in 1850. It followed six years after the first rowing competition.
For over 150 years, sails have graced the waters of the Alster and Elbe. It's no wonder that watersports hold such significance in Hamburg. Sailing is as integral to the city as St. Pauli, the bustling entertainment district, the historic port, and, more recently, the architectural marvel of the Elbphilharmonie.
Water abounds here.
Even on a global scale, the Outer Alster lake ranks among the most renowned regatta courses. A haven for sailboats, canoes, kayaks, and paddle or rowboats.
Playing with time
Boat racings themselves boast a rich tradition. What sets this sport apart is that the race begins before the starting gun fires. Here, the pole position is secured before the race even begins. The sailing crew is given a countdown through both acoustic and visual signals, typically ten minutes prior to the official start. However, crossing the starting line prematurely incurs penalties.
Nevertheless, sailboats are in constant motion, propelled by the wind, as crews remain on standby for minutes until the race officially commences. Timing is critical. Hence, the watch becomes the sailor's best companion, especially a certain type of watch.
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Wrist-bound navigation
They go by various names – Yachttimer, Regatta-Timer, Yacht-Chronographs, or Sailing Watches – and they inspired our new STERNGLAS Hamburg Chrono. But why are they so vital?
A brief primer on sailing watches: A Regatta-Timer is a timepiece equipped with a countdown function, specifically designed for regattas. Once set, it displays the remaining time until the race begins.
Yet, a chronograph serves purposes beyond this, aiding in tactical maneuvers, decision-making, or timing between waypoints.
It's a motivator, a witness to success, and a crucial instrument in watersports.
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This is why, at STERNGLAS, we've expanded our beloved Hamburg collection in response to community demand. After two years of meticulous development, every detail considered, the time has come:
Introducing the Hamburg Chrono with an integrated chronograph – and available in three exciting designs: Silver, Dark Green Bronze, and Regatta.
The Hamburg Chrono aims to be your motivator, urging you to give your all. It's the witness to your achievements as you strive for personal bests. For in life, as in sailing, every second counts.
We've captured this spirit on the reverse side: with a detailed engraving depicting two sailboats racing on the Outer Alster lake. A spectacle we witness firsthand year after year.
When it's time for all sailors and landlubbers in Hamburg to proclaim, "All aboard!"
And it has been for over 150 years.
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