Sinn 156.1 E Timepiece Watch User Manual

: September 11, 2024
: Sinn

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156.1 E

DEAR CUSTOMER,

we know from numerous conversations that the people who buy our watches do so out of conviction. This includes people with a pronounced affinity to technology who are fascinated, for example, by the solutions we have devised for protection from magnetic fields and scratch resistance. Some of our customers, such as divers, pilots and the German GSG 9 special police unit, rely on their watches in their respective careers because their lives depend on it.

They all swear by the performance, resilience and durability, as well as the quality and precision of our watches. This is why independent institutes regularly verify and certify the water and pressure resistance of our diving watches.

Selected pilot watches are tested and certified by independent institutions according to the DIN 8330 Horology – Aviator watches in an extensive and complex type and unit verification process. This ensures that a DIN 8330-compliant pilot watch is a suitable all-round replacement for the on- board timekeeping instruments available to pilots. Functionality is our top priority and ultimately determines the design. Only the technical features that are really needed can be found on our watches. Because we believe that products have to speak for themselves.

The basic question that we ask ourselves is: which innovative technologies and materials can be employed for our craft and provide solutions for rendering our watches even more practical for everyday use? It is often worth indulging in a little lateral thinking to see what is going on in other industrial sectors or fields of science. We repeatedly go to the limits of physical resources to upgrade our watches – with the aim of making what’s good even better. Most of our best developments are yet to come!

I am delighted that you have decided to buy a SINN timepiece and hope that it will continue to give you pleasure for many years to come.

Yours,

Lothar Schmidt

SINN SPEZIALUHREN ZU FRANKFURT AM MAIN

It was back in 1961 that pilot and blind-flying instructor Helmut Sinn founded the company. Since then, we have been committed to producing high- specification mechanical watches. In 1994, the graduate engineer Lothar Schmidt took over the company. This marked the beginning of a new era for the SINN brand, because the new owner took a decisive step towards more innovation. Under his leadership, new technologies and materials were introduced, thus providing the crucial incentives for our company’s evolution and gradual emergence as an insider’s tip for lovers of fine watches. Today, our name stands for technical innovations – much to the delight of both the trade and our customers alike.

Technical innovations

Take, for example, the absolutely condensation-free, anti-reflective, German Submarine Steel diving watch – made possible by HYDRO Technology. Other examples include a chronometer chronograph fashioned from a 22-carat gold alloy that is as hard as stainless steel and a chronometer with a magnetic resistance of up to 100 mT (= 80,000 A/m). There are also watches with a clockwork mechanism optimally protected from aging by an inert gas and integrated dehumidifying capsule. The list would not be complete without mentioning the development of mission timers (Einsatzzeitmesser or EZM in German) for firefighters, for special police units and border patrol guards. DIAPAL is one of our most important technological developments, with oiling no longer needed for the most important functions in the watch thanks to the materials we select.This technology was first used in 2001. With the aid of TEGIMENT Technology, we achieve greatly increased scratch resistance through surface hardening.

Ongoing advancement in technology and quality

Our top priority has always been to develop watches that offer superior performance both in daily and in professional use. Which is why our engineers are working continually to identify which innovative methods, materials and technologies are best suited for optimising our watches. Each new development has to first undergo rigorous practical tests before being incorporated. And no watch leaves our workshops before it has been subjected to thorough checking and fine adjustment by our master watchmakers.

Innovations in endurance testing

Independent institutes have been testing our diving watches for pressure and water resistance since 2005. As part of a further official certification, our diving watches have been treated as part of diving equipment since 2006 and are tested and certified in accordance with European diving equipment standards. This is unparalleled in the watch industry. Selected pilot watches are tested and certified by independent institutions according to the DIN 8330 Horology Aviator watches in an extensive and complex type and unit verification process. This ensures that a DIN 8330-compliant pilot watch is not only a suitable all-round replacement for the on-board timekeeping instruments available to pilots, but is also capable of remaining unaffected by the physical stresses of flight, posing no risk potential for the crew or aircraft, and demonstrating compatibility with other on-board instruments.

The Temperature Resistance Technology keeps mechanical watches performing at temperatures ranging from – 45 °C to +80 °C. This technology has proven its worth in the EZM 10 TESTAF, for example, used as part of the official approvals procedure for Airbus Helicopters (formerly Eurocopter) EC 145 T2 highperformance helicopter. The 303 KRISTALL is impressive proof of the functional reliability of our watches under the toughest climatic conditions. Equipped with Temperature Resistance Technology, the chronograph passed the acid test at the Yukon Quest, the world’s most demanding dogsled race. The 203 ARKTIS passed its Arctic endurance test on the wrist of extreme diver Mario M. Weidner, withstanding all dives in the freezing cold waters of the Arctic Ocean above 81 degrees latitude. Both watches were worn on top of protective clothing. The real test was in the extreme temperature fluctuations between water and land – a test that the 303 KRISTALL and the 203 ARKTIS passed with flying colours.

This system of assessment has been specially designed for the pressure resistance of our diving watches by an independent institute.

Workshop modifications

From the robust case and the polished crystal to the exquisitely decorated movement, we make sure that each and every detail in our watches is fit for purpose. In addition to our technology, the heart of any SINN watch is the fascinating mechanical movement. That is why we rely only on selected renowned manufacturers.

“SZ movements” is the name given to our movement modifications. The results are high-quality calibres characterised by impressive features. An example of this is the SZ04 with regulateur for the 6100 REGULATEUR series.

The model series 140 and model 717 uses our proprietary chronograph development, the SZ01. It was modelled on the Lemania 5100 calibre used in the EZM 1. One of the biggest differences between the SZ01 and the Lemania 5100 is the former’s stopwatch minute display. This feature now makes it even easier and quicker to record stop times more accurately. The aim of this modification was to significantly improve the readability of the chronograph function.

The SZ calibres 02, 03, 05 and 06 are a modification of the SZ01 movement, characterized by an off-center 60-minute counter. The 60-minute scale of the stopwatch minute counter is much simpler and more intuitive to read than the 30-minute scale commonly found in other watches.

Image: SINN caliber SZ05.

MODEL 156.1 E

A successful synthesis of tradition and modernity is what makes this historic pilot’s chronograph, limited to 300 pieces, so unmistakably appealing. Its special charm lies in its contemporary interpretation, which takes a timepiece that is very popular with watch enthusiasts as its model. To better understand the traditional background of the model 156.1 E, it is important to know that the original predecessor is the model 155 (see next page). As the successor to this timepiece, our company developed the 156 and 156 MILITARY models (see next page) – all watches that are now true icons.

60-minute stopwatch hand from the dial centre

The modern, innovative character of the model 156.1 E is reflected in our in- house chronograph movement SZ01, which features a 60-minute stopwatch hand from the dial centre. The advantage: stop times can be recorded more easily, quickly and accurately – a clear gain in terms of clear readability. This movement is integrated into a newly designed case with a screw-in back, which is aesthetically modelled on its historical predecessors with a 43 mm diameter sliding case. However, the 156.1 E model now has a sapphire crystal cover glass, which is more scratch-resistant than the acrylic glass used in the original model. The pilot’s bezel is captively connected to the case and can be rotated smoothly without detend – another innovation that is being introduced to the SINN range in this form for the first time with the 156.1 model. The TEGIMENT Technology of the pilot’s bezel is also an important prerequisite for the application of the Hard Coating in anthracite, which proves to be extremely durable as a result.

Date display in the form of the Kollsman window of an aviation altimeter

As a striking detail, the pilot’s rotating bezel, unlike the historical models, has a luminescent fixed point in the marking at twelve o’clock, which makes it possible to clearly identify the position of the set reference time in the dark. The numerals as well as the hour and minute hands are covered with ivory-coloured luminescent colour. This type of contrasting application conveys a stylish vintage look and creates a further visual link to history. And lovers of historical pilot’s chronographs will also be delighted: The design of the date display at 3 o’clock is reminiscent of the Kollsman window of a barometric aviation altimeter, which is used to set the reference air pressure. Similar to the reference pressure on the altimeter, this display must be manually adjusted to the location in order for the watch to function fully. The design of the date window thus emphasises the instrumental character of the watch and at the same time the importance of the date for long-haul flights. Continuing proven elements while utilising the potential for change: With the 156.1 E model, this design philosophy has created a chronograph that is both traditional and modern.

Looking back: In the beginning was the Model 155

The historic Model 155 – a ‘wristwatch with double stop mechanism’ (the original designation used by the Bundeswehr the German Armed Forces – in the 1960s) sold in very small numbers in the 1980s and early 1990s – is today one of the most sought-after collector’s watches from our company. At the time, the company acquired decommissioned watches from the stocks of the Bundeswehr (Heuer-Leonidas SA 1550 SG, or Heuer 1550 SG for short) and sold them as the ‘Bundeswehr Chronograph for Pilots’ model 155 Bw.

The successors: the 156 and 156 MILITARY models

In the successor models 156 and 156 MILITARY – the latter with the corresponding lettering above the window for the day of the week and date – the case design was initially adopted in the form of an sliding case. Later, the chronograph was also offered with a traditional case design. The readability of the stopped time was ensured by the Lemania 5012 movement with the minute stop display from the centre, or later by the Lemania 5100 with 24-hour display and minute stop display from the centre. It was precisely this legendary movement that later served as the model for the new design of the SZ01 and which today performs its work reliably in the 156.1 E model. Screw-in back, acrylic glass, shortened pushers and crown (in contrast to the predecessor model 155), which moved closer to the case and thus minimised damage in the event of impact, were further characteristics of the model series at the time.

The 156 and its faces

The first examples of the 156 model were equipped with the Lemania 5012 movement and featured a stopwatch display with seconds and minutes from the centre, a sub-dial for the 12-hour stopwatch display at 6 o’clock and a day of the week and date display at 3 o’clock. Subsequently, another movement from the 5000 movement family from the Swiss manufacturer Lemania prevailed on the market. This was the legendary Lemania 5100 movement, which was also used in many watches used by the military from the 1980s onwards due to its reliability and robustness, coupled with the favourable display functions. The 156 model was also converted to this movement in the mid-1980s and, as a result of further movement development, was given an additional sub-dial at 12 o’clock to display the time in 24-hour format.

With our new, contemporary model series 156.1, equipped with the in-house SINN calibre SZ01 familiar from our models 140 St, EZM 10, EZM 1.1 and 717, we are deliberately returning to the original display without the 24-hour sub-dial. The omission of the day of the week display favours clarity and concentration on the essentials.

In-house SINN calibre SZ01.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE

a Second hand
b Hour hand
c Minute hand
d Crown position
e Date display
f Stopwatch second hand
g Stopwatch hour hand
h Stopwatch minute hand

Winding the watch (crown position 1)

The crown is screwed down (crown position 0). To loosen the crown, turn it counter-clockwise (crown position 1). The movement is wound manually by turning the crown clockwise. Under normal circumstances, a few turns of the crown are enough to start the movement. We recommend 20 full turns of the crown for the initial use. Simply wearing the watch every day should suffice to keep the self-winding mechanism wound. The power reserve allows you to take off your watch overnight without having to rewind it.

About 40 turns of the crown by hand will wind up the watch completely. Because the winding mechanism of your watch is designed for automatic winding with minimal winding speed, the watch should be wound at a moderate, consistent speed when winding by hand to avoid damaging the movement.

Time adjustment (crown position 3)

In crown position 3, the motion is paused. This helps you to set the watch precisely. Please make sure the date changes at midnight and not at midday. Just move the hands forward until the date changes. Afterwards you attempt to set the time. We recommend moving the hands past the desired minute marker and then adjusting it backwards. The movement restarts as soon as the crown is no longer in position 3.

Quickset date adjustment (crown position 2)

Do not use this function between 9 p.m. and 3 a.m. Set the crown in position 2 and turn it clockwise until the correct date appears in the date display window. Please do not use the date-setting function between 9 p.m. and 3 a.m. Between these times, the gear wheels used for changing the date are engaged, and the movement could be damaged.

Please take care to fasten the crown after making adjustments.

ADJUSTING THE LENGTH OF THE SOLID BRACELET

If you are not sure how to assemble, shorten or lengthen the watch straps, please contact your specialist SINN retailer directly or one of our watchmakers in customer service in Frankfurt am Main. We would also be happy to help you over the telephone.

Determine the relative lengths of the two sides before adjusting the length of the bracelet. To ensure maximum comfort, both sides of the bracelet should contain the same number of links. If this is not possible, the top bracelet strap (above the 12 on the clock) should be longer.

It is not necessary to detach the solid bracelet from the watch or the clasp.

1. Loosen the screws on the side of the bracelet link which is to be removed or added.

2. Remove the superfluous bracelet link or insert a new one.

3. Before screwing tight, add a small drop (no more!) of thread-locker (AN 302-42 medium-tight) to the thread of the bracelet screw.

Safety note!
Thread-locker (AN 302-42 medium-tight) contains:
2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate, cumene hydroperoxide.
May cause an allergic skin reaction. May cause respiratory irritation.
Wear protective gloves. UFI: 51T6-80C3-800Q-SCR2

USING THE PILOT’S BEZEL TO MEASURE TIME

The pilot’s bezel can be moved manually in both directions. The triangle has a luminescent fixed point. It can be used in a number of ways, including to measure important lengths of time. For example, you can set the marking to the beginning of the time span to be measured, or you can use it to indicate the end of a given span of time.

Luminous design

TECHNICAL DETAILS

Mechanical Movement

SZ01
Self-winding mechanism
28 bearing jewels
28,800 semi-oscillations per hour
Seconds stop function
Anti-magnetic as per DIN 8309

Watch Case

Case made of stainless steel, bead-blasted
Sapphire crystal in front, anti-reflective on both sides
Case back screw-fastened
Meet the technical requirements for water-resistance, as set out in standard DIN 8310
Water-resistant and pressure-resistant to 10 bar
Low pressure resistant
Case diameter 43 mm
Band lug width 22 mm

Functions

Hours, minutes, subsidiary seconds
Date display in the shape of the Kollsman window of an aviation altimeter
Chronograph
Pilot’s bezel with minute scale and luminious dot in the triangle

SINN Technologies

Captive bezel, sliding rotatable
Captive bezel made of stainless steel with Hard Coating in anthracite on a TEGIMENT Technology basis

Dial and Hands

Matte black dial
Ivory-coloured numerals, hour and minute hands
Numbers coated with luminescent colour
Hour and minute hand coated with luminescent colour

ADVICE

Water resistance

In its original condition, your watch fulfils the technical requirements of water resistance according to DIN 8310.The static compressive stress of your watch is given in bar. Each and every one of our watches is tested for water resistance. However, in everyday use it is important to note that seals can suffer from wear and ageing over time due to a wide range of factors which arise when wearing a wristwatch. We therefore recommend having the water resistance checked at least once a year. To ensure your watch retains its water resistance for as long as possible, rinse it with tap water if it comes into contact with seawater, chemicals or the like. Continual mechanical stress in the form of shocks and vibrations can also not only reduce water resistance, but also increase wear and tear of the movement. Care should therefore be taken to protect your watch from unnecessary impacts.

Accuracy

The measured results of the watch’s rate are always “snapshots” taken under laboratory conditions. For this reason, we also take each owner’s individual movements into account when making a specific regulator correction. It is therefore only possible to judge the accuracy of your watch after it has been in operation for approximately eight weeks. In the event of a deviation, please keep a daily record of its timekeeping over an extended period, for example one week.

Do you have any questions? Our employees will be pleased to advise you.
Telephone: + 49 (0)69 978 414 400
Telefax: + 49 (0)69 978 414 401
E-mail: service@sinn.de

SERVICE

Does your SINN watch need an inspection, repair, retrofitting or reconditioning?

If possible, please use our service order form. For information about our service order form, please refer to the section entitled “Customer Service” on our website www.sinn.de/en and to the section entitled “Servicing and repairs” in our general terms and conditions at www.sinn.de/en. We would be happy to send you a copy of the general terms and conditions.

Our international partners generally offer on-site service. However, should they be unable to provide a certain service, they will organise the safe dispatch and return of the SINN watch to our manufactory in Germany. Please be aware that our partners will wait until they have a sufficient number of SINN watches before they post a shipment, in order to keep transport costs and customs duties to a minimum. This will increase the processing time.

Alternatively, you can send your SINN watch to us directly. You will be required to cover the postage costs for the delivery and return shipment, which vary depending on the country. For insurance reasons, we strongly recommend sending us any return goods by registered parcel post. We regret that we are unable to accept deliveries with unpaid postage!

In case you have a chance to drop off your watch directly at our office in Frankfurt am Main we look forward to your visit. Please make a note of our opening times.

For information about our service, please refer to the section entitled “Customer Service” on our websitewww.sinn.de/en or +49 (0)69 / 97 84 14 – 400.

1st Edition
08.2024
Technical specifications are subject to changes.