INTRODUCING: The REISER Alpen Skeleton is an integrated bracelet watch with a fresh twist

With a watch as visually complex as the REISER Alpen Skeleton, it’s always hard to know where to begin, but perhaps the most unique aspect of its design is the signature Alpen case profile. Although the hexagonal case shape may be more than a touch familiar to most watch enthusiasts, there’s a lot more to it than just being an homage.

In this instance, the hexagon is stretched laterally, giving it an air of similarity to vintage bubble-like television sets, or some kind of prop from a retro sci-fi movie. The bevelled edges taper off from the outside to the inside of the watch, which makes the design seem as though it’s flowing down from a central point. That theme is reflected in the integrated bracelet and strap, with the lugs following that bevelled profile smoothing out the otherwise harsh angular nature of the watch. What’s more, the 41mm diameter should be a comfortable sporty fit for the average wrist.

Of course, the dial is where this model really holds its unique personality. The double baton markers at 12 o’clock are still there as a REISER signature, although truncated to allow more room to see the balance wheel dancing. The semi-skeletonised hands are filled with bright white Super-LumiNova BGW9 to maintain their legibility above the darkened movement, although the shiny brass of the churning wheels and glinting jewels will definitely try their best to distract you.

Perhaps the most impressive part of the dial is actually rather subtle, and that’s the “Made in Germany” distinction at 6 o’clock. Although designed in the Netherlands and the movement is Swiss, the watches are assembled in the quaint city of Pforzheim near Stuttgart and about halfway between Frankfurt and the Swiss border. The laws regarding the “Made in Germany” stamp are fairly vague, stating that “any services that are decisive for the quality or other important properties of a product must be performed in Germany”, however there is definitely a level of pride associated with the label.

The movement is an STP, which is an interesting choice that is slowly gaining a fair bit of traction within the microbrand world. Swiss Technology Production is a subsidiary of the Fossil group, who have absolutely proven their watchmaking prowess in revitalising the enchanting Zodiac brand, encompassing vintage designs as well as fresh new watches with summery colourful twists. This particular calibre 6-15 is the skeletonised version of their 5-15, itself a clone of the ETA 2824-2. It has everything you would expect from a Swiss automatic movement, such as hacking seconds, manual winding, 28,800 vibrations per hour, and a 44 hour power reserve. The variant that REISER have chosen is coated in black DLC, while the customised winding rotor is coated in rose-gold DLC to match the other watches in the Alpen collection.

The REISER Alpen Skeleton is available at an early bird price for 999EUR on a bracelet and 929EUR on the integrated rubber strap, both with deployant clasps. The bracelet version is limited to 40 pieces, and the rubber to 35, with prices increasing by 200EUR after December 2. It’s a bold move for a small brand to go for such an exclusive release, especially with the prices crossing over into some big Swiss brand names. But, if you’re looking for something that will really stand out in a collection, then the Alpen Skeleton could be for you.