Stowa Partitio Watch Review

Reliability and precision come to mind when German engineering is present. The Partitio Klassik black with red second hand showcases all aspects of German design that you would expect. I believe the term ‘works like clockwork’ must have been coined with their watchmakers in mind.

There is nothing particularly spectacular about this piece but there are some features that work together to give a classic vintage feel to the Partitio. The polished stainless steel looks good but for everyday practicality I worry that it will show scratches and finger marks too easily.

Black Dial

When I look at the Partitio on my arm it looks to me like a piece that is ‘frozen in time’. I feel like if you had to go back to the 1930’s this is exactly the timepiece that you would’ve seen on your arm except for the technological advancements in terms of movement. It’s very comfortable to wear and fits perfectly under a jacket sleeve.

The black dial is just plain black with no additional levels or accents on it. It has white Arabic indexes in a bold, formal font that is clear to see and not overly decorative. The indexes and watch hands have a strong lume on that stands out brightly in the dark. The only hand without lume on is the red second hand that is the unique identifier of this Partitio. The red does create that small bit of contrast and adds a small bit to the visual appeal that I really like.

The outside of the dial is lined with the smaller markings for minutes and seconds as well as the split second markings which I honestly see no need for. I understand that it should reflect the older models but some things are better left in the past, especially when there is no functionality or value added.

In a very small font above the 6 o’clock is the Partitio name and at the 12 o’clock is the Stowa brand name. You have a domed sapphire crystal protecting the display and providing some extra protection from scratches.

Polished Case

The case is a reflective, eye-catching polished stainless steel. I really like the retro, luxurious look that you get from the polished case but I would be really cautious to get it unless you are an overly cautious person by nature.

If you get the automatic movement the caseback is also polished stainless steel which would make the entire timepiece polished stainless steel. My laziness, or rather my lack of interest in unnecessary cleaning, might show here but with a polished piece like this you can be sure to pick up fingerprints and a number of small scratches over time.

At 37mm it is not too large and will fit most wrists comfortably and, considering the Swiss automatic movement that keeps this old soul ticking along, it is relatively thin at 10.2mm. The polished caseback for the automatic Partitio is fastened by 6 screws and has the Partitio name in large font right in the middle. The Stowa brand is stamped just above it with the other usual disclaimers lower down. The caseback is smoothly indented and gives some depth to the otherwise ordinary back.

Crown and Strap

The screw crown isn’t too big and in keeping with the Bauhaus style of the piece has no elaborate decorations other than the Stowa stamp on the top of the crown. The piece has a 50m water resistance rating that will keep you safe from water damage with your routine water encounters.

This piece will be held around your arm by a genuine calfskin strap that is made for daily use over a long period of time is fastened by a stainless steel buckle. The lugs are a standard 18mm however so you shouldn’t have too much trouble finding a replacement strap if you felt the need.

Final Thoughts

I personally prefer this version more due to the automatic movement and find that an exhibition caseback could be unnecessary considering the simplistic design. The size and comfort is well suited to daily usage whether you are dressing up for a formal event or still want to look good in a casual event with friends or family. The polished finish gives it a luxurious look and is in keeping with the classic style but I have become increasingly aware of the difficulty that comes with wearing a polished piece daily and preserving its look.

I like the touch of colour with the red second hand and am quite impressed by the price that you can pick up a classic like this for. It would make a valuable addition to a collection I am sure but I just don’t see this timepiece being the best option for daily use. Stowa really brought history alive with this piece however and if that was their main aim, which I believe it is, then they have knocked the ball out of the park here.

For more information visit the official Stowa website here.