The Best Tough Watches – Sinn EZM 13.1 Review
If you were to ask any watch aficionados to recommend you a durable and reliable timepiece, they will most likely mention one specific brand: Sinn. This German manufacturer has established itself as a brand which excels at producing purpose-built watches. Some of their timepieces are even designed in cooperation with military experts to ensure amazing performance in the field. With time, they have come up with a wide range of technological innovations to deliver timepieces which can withstand even the harshest weather conditions.
The EZM is a line of watches produced to be used in military missions. Einsatzzeitmesser a.k.a mission timers, display some of the most advanced technological components used in purpose-built timepieces. Among this series, you will find the Sinn EZM 13.1, a dive chronograph of special properties. The previous EZM 13 – which is now discounted – featured Arabic numerals which are now removed. This has been a complete revamping of this watch, which now brings forward a clean and practical design. Designed to be an ideal mission timepiece, EZM 13.1 is one of the best high-tech watches in the market.
The Sinn EZM 13.1 features a case which measures up to 41mm diameter and 47.5mm lug-to-lug distance. Even though it features a 500m water-resistance level, EZM 13.1 is a bit bolder with its 15mm height. Sinn has managed to conceal the additional girth quite well by making use of a sloping bezel and the slim midcase. These two elements reduce the appearance of the timepiece’s height. The crown pushers are positioned on the 9 o’clock spot, making sure that they never dig onto the wrist. This doesn’t make EZM 13.1 seem small, however, it adds to its elegance.
As always, this model comes with no additional elements. You’re not paying for the finish, however, you are receiving a high-tech and sleek design. The overall construction is paired with a one-directional bezel which is secured by a series of screws. You can easily turn the bezel with one simple slick, and the pushers of the chronograph reassure a proper engagement. The 60 click adds to the watch’s purpose-built design. The crown winds smoothly and the bezel is easy to engage. The complexity of the lines is another nice touch to this otherwise simple piece.
The SZ02 caliber – a staple of the brand – is used for this timepiece as well. The Valjoux 7750 movement has many important adjustments to it which add to the distinct look of the EZM 13.1. Initially, the movement was rotated 180 degrees so that the crown and pushers were located on the left. The minute counter was then shown at the 6 o’clock, displaying a complete 60 minutes span. Subsequently, the hour counter was taken off and moved to the 3 o’clock position. The red and black date display was placed on the 4:30 position.
The most distinct element of this chronograph is how easy it is to read. Some watch aficionados are not fans of dive chronographs as they can feel cluttered or too busy. The EZM 13.1 manages to deliver a clean and sleek look. To begin with, telling time is straightforward and easy with this timepiece. The only component which could possibly interfere with the watch’s legibility would be the 60-minute register. However, this register is skillfully placed in a position which doesn’t feel intrusive.
The running seconds are also as minimal as they can get. The dark gray blends beautifully with the dial and the second hand is simply there to show that the watch is running. Some may not prefer the red and black date window, as it may be harder to read than if it was a white on black display. However, if you prefer a no-date watch, you will love how subtle and unobtrusive this display is. The red serves as a simple touch which compliments the other red accents on the dial. The Einsatzzeitmesser is elegantly tucked beneath the Sinn logo, while “Ar” marks the 9 o’clock position showcasing the brand’s use of dehumidifying technology.
The technology used for Sinn watches is often their selling point. The EZM 13.1 provides every tech property. For example, Sinn encases the watch in an atmosphere of inert gas and inserts a copper sulfate capsule at 1:30. Thus, even if some moisture sneaks in, the capsule will be able to absorb it. Moreover, this timepiece sports a 80,000 A/m anti-magnetism aspect, with a resistance to temperatures ranging from -45°C up to +80°C. The D3 system allows the wearer to enjoy the watch’s chronograph functions while being completely submerged under water. The water resistance level goes up to 500m and it is certified according to the EN 250 / EN 14143 European diving standards.
The EZM 13.1 has a H-link bracelet which can become a topic of debate. It has smoothed edges and an amazing articulation which makes it extremely comfortable on the wrist. Moreover, the appearance of this bracelet has now become a staple of Sinn. However, the downside is the fact that it’s paired with a clasp which doesn’t leave room for any small adjustments. There are plenty of cheaper watches that still offer this feature, therefore it’s a bit of a disappointment that EZM 13.1 doesn’t include this element as well.
The bracelet has only 3 holes for the adjustment and extension of the watch. Sinn also provides a silicone strap option paired with a push-button clasp. Considering the military style of this timepiece, a NATO strap would have complimented the overall look as well. Similarly to the Erika’s Original MN strap, that style choice would have also made the watch more light-weight, which can be extremely useful for outdoor activities.
Final notes
Sinn excels at delivering watches that are ultimately highly-functional tools. They are durable, tough and equipped with several technological properties. The EZM 13.1 is now a more versatile and legible option. If you’re looking with a sleek and purpose-built aesthetic, the EZM 13.1 should be your go-to choice. If you like the utility of this timepiece, but you want a thinner option, Sinn also offers the EZM 3F. This timepiece shares the same properties but it has a more elegant design. Priced at $3,270, the EZM 13.1 is a great pick for every military watch admirer.
