Singer Reimagined later enriched its portfolio with the Flytrack watch with a proprietary zero-set mechanism that instantly resets the seconds hand, as often as you wish, without interfering with the watch timekeeping.

See also: 5 chronographs for an active lifestyle

The brand, which is a collaboration with California-based luxury automaker Singer, is also known for its vintage-esque design inspired by classic sports cars, a deliberate decision on the part co-founder and managing director Borraccino. The new 1969 collection reiterates this with the introduction of a smaller case size of 40mm (compared to the previous 43mm), evoking a unisex appeal. The case is in stainless steel topped with a domed sapphire crystal. The steel bracelet features H-links based on the racetrack's curbs shape. A golden crown ring lends the piano-black lacquer dial some lustre in an otherwise sombre aesthetic. 

There are two versions of the 1969. The Chronograph retains the central chronograph display, with a window at 6 o'clock for real-time indication. The mechanical concept is similar to Track1, only, as they would say, reimagined. The 1969 Chronograph is nominated in the chronograph category in GPHG 2023.

The Timer is Singer Reimagined's first three-hand watch with a traditional time display but with a twist: it is also fitted with the zero-reset function of the Flytrack. 

By the way, the choice of “1969” in the name is not an accident. The year represents a watershed period for chronograph innovations with the release of the iconic Zenith El Primero, Tag Heuer Caliber 11, and Seiko Caliber 6139.

In case you missed it: Meet the most complicated Grand Seiko watch

When he was in Kuala Lumpur to launch Singer Reimagined with Cortina Watch, Borraccino spent some time to chat with Tatler GMT. 

What is the main idea behind Singer Reimagined?

Singer Reimagined pays tribute to the 1960s and 1970s design and style by improving and enhancing the most iconic watchmaking function: the chronograph. We explore timekeeping under several different forms, be it known or yet to be discovered.

The word “Reimagined” is in the name. What does reimagining watchmaking mean today?

It means we provide new perspectives by developing creative and out-of-the-box watchmaking concepts. While we aim to go beyond traditional boundaries by injecting revolutionary engineering, and state-of-the-art material science, we still do so while valuing traditional watchmaking.

How are you contributing to the narrative?

With quite a personal vision of design, an obsession for details, and the love for purpose-driven watches.

What was the catalyst that led you to decide to launch your own watch brand?

Together with Rob Dickinson, the founder of Singer Vehicle Design in California, we decided to share the philosophy of reimagining by improving iconic items, applied to the field of high-watchmaking. It’s an exercise that was never attempted before to this extent, as we did start from the core by reimagining a groundbreaking chronograph movement. It’s probably the most complicated thing one could think to do in high-watchmaking.

How do you balance form and function?

Form follows function. The fact the chronograph is central drives the aesthetic of our timepieces. Style-wise, we love to reference to iconic timepieces from the 1960s and 1970s. Again, the reference is purely inspirational as the result exponentially exceeds the original in terms of engineering, complication, and ergonomics.

Why did you decide on the Agengraphe for your watches' heartbeat?

We did not decide; we made it happen! Singer Reimagined was the initial spark for the creation of this exceptional calibre. I met Jean-Marc [Wiederrecht, the watchmaker and founder of Agenhor that developed the Agengraphe movement] with my idea for a central chronograph when the Agengraphe was still in an embryonic stage in his mind. Realising we shared the same objectives, we decided to work together to bring the movement to life.

What does it mean to be nominated for GPHG this year?

It means our creations are getting the attention they deserve. What Singer Reimagined provides overcomes most other chronograph movements in terms of engineering, complexity, and innovation. Not to mention, the unmatched readability of the chronograph’s information. Then, by introducing this new 1969 product line, we give a completely new perspective to our watches by equipping them with a smaller 40mm stainless steel case and a very ergonomic metal bracelet.

Have you thought about the legacy you'd like Singer Reimagined to leave behind?

While building the brand, this is a question I ask myself quite often. I’d like Singer Reimagined to become the brand of reference when it comes to chronographs. That’s why we want to keep exploring this matter. And you can be sure we still have a lot up our sleeve!

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