Homages in the watchmaking world tend to be a point of contention. It?s easy enough when someone tries to emulate an existing design to level accusations of unoriginality or outright plagiarism. On the other hand, when it?s done right, an homage can be a great way to bring a rare or long gone watch to today’s customer, especially at a time when vintage prices are only climbing. Dan Henry seems to understand exactly how to do this. 
Over the past two years, Dan Henry has captured the essence of several classic styles without directly copying any specific piece, and it?s been a highly successful formula. With their latest watch, the 1972 Alarm Chronograph, Dan Henry is changing the playbook.
Introducing the Dan Henry 1971 Alarm Chronograph. Rather than a blend of elements, there?s one clear inspiration this time around: the world?s first black PVD watch, the Orfina Porsche Design Chronograph I (or the Heuer Pasadena, or the LeJour 7000, depending on your branding preferences). Nevertheless, Dan Henry still takes quite a few leaps with this classic design, effectively reinventing the style and adding functionality. How well does this reinvention work" Let?s take a closer look.

At first glance, the case of the Dan Henry 1972 is a near-exact copy of the Porsche Design Chronograph I, but small details here and there give it its own identity. The overall blocky, hooded-lug shape is as timelessly sporty now as it was in 1972, offering masculine presence while ...