The History of Porsche Design and the Chronograph 1

Porsche Design began as a design studio founded in 1972 by Ferdinand Alexander Porsche—known as “Butzi”—the man behind the Porsche 911. Today, it has grown into a luxury subsidiary offering a wide range of products at boutiques around the world, from luggage and sunglasses to coffee makers and clothing.

My wife’s favorite Porsche Design bag, bought at PECLA

The Chronograph 1 is known as the world’s first all-black wristwatch, introduced by Porsche Design in 1972. Initially, the watches were made by Orfina, before production moved to a partnership with IWC in 1978. Eterna took over from 1998 to 2014, and today Porsche Design manufactures its watches in-house.

A Special Chronograph Celebrating 50 Years of the 911 Turbo

Porsche Design’s latest creation celebrates the 50th anniversary of the legendary 911 Turbo, widely regarded as one of Porsche’s most groundbreaking cars. When it arrived in 1974, the 911 Turbo stunned the world as the fastest road car of its time. Its flared wheel arches, whale-tail spoiler, breathtaking acceleration, and 240 km/h top speed became design classics.

The special Chronograph 1 – 911 Turbo 50 Years is limited to 500 pieces. It was created to mark the occasion because the original Chronograph 1 went on sale around the same time as the first-generation 911 Turbo.

Key Features of the Chronograph 1 – 911 Turbo 50 Years

This special edition comes with a number of distinctive details:

1. Case: Lightweight titanium with a scratch-resistant titanium carbide coating.
2. Dial: Inspired by the three main gauges visible through the first-generation Turbo’s steering wheel, with matching white hands and indices.
3. Chronograph seconds hand: Vivid red, echoing the needles of the car’s speedometer and tachometer.
4. Flyback function: The word “Flyback” appears above the 6 o’clock position. A single push stops, resets, and restarts the chronograph.
5. Font: Uses the typeface found on the dashboard of classic 911s.
6. Logo: Features the same Porsche Design logo as the original 1972 Chronograph 1.

Thoughtful Details on the Case Back and Strap

The case back is just as carefully detailed. The sapphire crystal display back features an instantly recognizable “Turbo” inscription. Beneath it is an automatic rotor inspired by the Fuchs wheel, famous for its cloverleaf design, with the Porsche crest at its center.

The strap pairs beige leather with textile, a tribute to the colors of the original production 911 Turbo. It also features a “Turbo” logo. Each of the 500 watches comes with an additional black titanium bracelet.

The Chronograph 1 – 911 Turbo 50 Years is assembled at the Porsche Design manufacture in Solothurn, Switzerland, and is priced at $1,200 (approximately ¥1.7 million).

A Porsche Design watch is more than a way to tell the time—it’s an object that embodies the history and spirit of Porsche cars. The latest Chronograph 1, carrying forward the 911 Turbo’s 50-year legacy, is a must-have companion for anyone buying a 911 Turbo anniversary model.

Unfortunately, Porsche Design does not currently have an official boutique in Japan, so for now, importing one privately seems to be the only option.