The countdown has begun for the 12th Elbflorenz Rally, and this year’s event marks the debut of a special timepiece designed for rally enthusiasts and classic car lovers alike. The Rallye-Chronograph GLP, a limited edition from Mühle Glashütte, is set to accompany the start of around 200 classic cars on September 13, 2024. Limited to just 100 pieces, this timepiece is designed to meet the rigorous demands of rally teams during regularity tests (GLP), embodying precision, durability, and a strong connection to automotive culture.
Engineered for Rally Performance
The Rallye-Chronograph GLP is more than just a stylish chronograph—it’s a tool designed to enhance rally performance. Featuring a precise MU 9413 automatic movement, the watch offers an impressive level of accuracy, capable of measuring time to an eighth of a second. The movement includes Mühle’s shock-resistant woodpecker neck regulation, a Glashütte three-quarter plate, and a removable escape wheel bridge for enhanced reliability.
The robust 45mm stainless steel case is designed to withstand the rigors of rallying, with a screw-down crown and a 2.5mm thick sapphire crystal providing resistance against pressure and impacts. The case’s solid construction is complemented by a vintage leather strap with green contrast stitching or a rubber strap with a secure folding clasp, ensuring the watch remains firmly on the wrist during intense rally stages.
Countdown Features for Precision Timing
At the heart of this chronograph is its countdown bezel, a crucial tool for rally teams. The bezel’s bidirectional rotating design, operable even with gloves, includes a countdown scale ranging from 60 to 15 seconds, with the last 10 seconds marked in individual increments to aid in precise timing. This feature, combined with the green-highlighted chronograph functions on the black dial, ensures that drivers can accurately measure time during secret stages or regularity tests, where every second counts.
The bright green accents on the dial are not only functional but also reflect the start and finish flags used in classic car rallies, a nod to the motorsport traditions that inspired the design of this watch.
Built for Performance and Style
Designed with rally fans in mind, the Rallye-Chronograph GLP combines technical excellence with classic automotive aesthetics. The vintage leather strap, with its perforated design and green stitching, echoes the interiors of classic cars, while the optional rubber strap provides a sportier, more practical alternative. Both options come with a safety folding clasp for added security and comfort.
On the inside, the watch houses Mühle’s MU 9413 calibre—a movement known for its precision and resilience. It boasts a 62-hour power reserve and includes a stop-seconds feature and date quickset function, adding to its practical functionality. The movement’s craftsmanship is visible through the transparent case back, showcasing the Glashütte three-quarter plate and signature Mühle rotor.
Limited Edition and Availability
As a tribute to the 12th Elbflorenz Rally, the Rallye-Chronograph GLP is strictly limited to 100 pieces, making it a highly sought-after collector’s item. Priced at €3,900, this special edition is available with either the vintage leather strap or the rubber strap, both of which highlight the watch’s automotive heritage.
For rally enthusiasts and watch collectors alike, the Rallye-Chronograph GLP represents a perfect fusion of precision timekeeping and automotive passion. With its robust build, precision engineering, and motorsport-inspired design, this limited edition piece is sure to leave a lasting impression on the wrist of any classic car aficionado.
For more details on the Rallye-Chronograph GLP, including model references DS_HW31816 (leather strap) and DS_HW31815 (rubber strap), visit Mühle Glashütte’s official website.