Sinn’s 104 has become one of the most beloved pilot’s watches among enthusiasts seeking rugged functionality for approachable prices. The Frankfurt-based company has built its reputation on creating timepieces that blur the line between tool watch and refined horology, but that philosophy takes a decidedly elegant turn with the new 104 Classic 12.
Small Details, Big Impact
The most notable addition to the 104 for 2025 is the introduction of a small seconds display at six o’clock — a first for the collection. To achieve this, Sinn swapped out the familiar day-date complication, creating a cleaner, more symmetrical dial layout that admittedly feels more sophisticated. The effect is striking. What was once purely a pilot’s instrument now carries hints of classical watchmaking ethos.
Adding to this elevated aesthetic is the debut of a ceramic bezel insert, another first for the 104 family. The aluminum bezel served its purpose on the original but ceramic brings exceptional scratch resistance and a lustrous finish that maintains its crisp appearance long after daily wear takes its toll on the rest of the case. The 12-hour scale transforms the watch into a practical dual-time instrument, allowing wearers to track a second time zone with a simple bezel rotation.
Meeting Expectations, And Then Some
For starters, the Classic 12 runs on the Sellita SW261-1 automatic with 28,800vph and a 38-hour power reserve. Additionally, the movement’s architecture accommodates the new small seconds complication while maintaining the robust anti-magnetic protection Sinn fans expect. The chamois-colored seconds register creates visual depth against the black sunburst dial, with rhodium-plated appliqués and hands providing the contrast that makes this watch highly legible.
However, this isn’t simply a pretty face masquerading as a tool watch. The 41mm stainless steel case with 11.9mm thickness retains the collection’s signature durability specs like 200m of water resistance, low-pressure resistance for aviation use, and Sinn’s captive bezel system that prevents accidental detachment. At 11.9mm thick, the proportions strike that rare balance between wrist presence and versatility.
Spec Sheet
Model: Sinn 104 Classic 12
Case Size: 41mm
Case Thickness: 11.9mm
Case Material: Stainless steel
Movement: Sellita SW261-1 automatic
Water Resistance: 200m
Bezel: Ceramic 12-hour insert
Complications: Small seconds at 6 o’clock
Straps: Leather or H-Link steel bracelet
Limited Edition?: No
Pricing & Availability
Available through WatchBuys in the U.S., the 104 Classic 12 is priced at $2,170 on leather or fabric straps, topping out at $2,650 on the H-Link quick-adjust bracelet.
Recap
Sinn 104 Classic 12
Sinn updates the 104 with the Classic 12, introducing a small seconds display and ceramic bezel insert to the beloved pilot’s watch collection, elevating its aesthetic refinement while maintaining the rugged 200m water resistance and tool watch functionality.
