Carl Suchy & Söhne Vienna Watch Takes on Minimalist Design

Carl Suchy & Söhne are probably the best-known Austrian watch brand (the only other Austrian brand that comes close is Habring²) and they’re proud to promote the heritage of their country. Between watch models called the Waltz and, as of today, the Vienna, the overall vibe is Austrian right down to the imperial eagles on the micro-rotor. However, while we tend to think of Austria in terms of Alpine cities and baroque architecture mixed with Art Nouveau influences, the Vienna takes things in a decidedly minimalist direction.

What I mean by that is compared to the Waltz No.1, the horizontal and vertical lines on the Vienna’s dial are much thicker and bolder. The hour scale has also been simplified with round markers coated with lume for low light legibility. Additionally, the brand name below 12 o’clock has shed the coat of arms and the brand’s date of founding, leaving it in its most pared back form to date. This new, minimalist aesthetic is courtesy of collaborating with renowned watch designer Eric Giroud, who has recently taken the collecting world by storm with his work on the MB&F M.A.D.2.

While from across the room the difference between the Vienna and Waltz might not be immediately apparent, it really rewards close inspection. Even the colours aren’t an instant give away because the Vienna is available in the same Day cream/white tone, Blue Danube and Night editions as the Waltz.

As for the steel case, it’s very slim with a 39mm diameter and a thickness of just 7.9mm. That sleekness is emphasised by the polished bezel and round lugs. Inside that case is the calibre 5401, produced in collaboration with Vaucher Fleurier Manufacture. It’s immaculately finished with Côte-de-Vienne decoration and has solid specs to back it up with a 48-hour power reserve provided by a golden micro-rotor. In terms of functions, it’s a time-only watch with seconds denoted by a running seconds counter at 6 o’clock.

The price is €18,900 (approx. £15,900), which is pretty substantial. I would prefer it to be closer in line to the Waltz’ price around the 10k mark, as it feels like a sister model. However, with Eric Giroud attached to the project and the insane finishing across the movement, there’s enough quality here to warrant it. Plus, a minimalist take on Carl Suchy’s more baroque style is a fun twist on their identity.

More details at Carl Suchy & Söhne.

​Oracle Time 

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