Union Glashütte has released a new limited-edition chronograph tied to the Sachsen Classic, a historic car rally the brand has sponsored for years.
The name of the Glashütte-based watchmaker’s new piece is a mouthful: the Averin Chronograph Limited Edition Sachsen Classic 2026. It might be so long because it marks a bit of a switch-up — past Sachsen Classic editions have all been built on Union Glashütte’s Noramis Chronograph, a round watch. This year the brand switched to the Averin, which is very clearly not round.
The case is stainless steel, 41mm by 41mm (aka a square). It has brushed and polished surfaces, a domed box-style sapphire crystal that follows the square case shape, and an exhibition caseback.
Inside is the caliber UNG-27.S2, Union Glashütte’s automatic chronograph movement built on the Valjoux 7750. It’s the cam-operated version, with a silicon balance spring and stop-seconds function, running at 4Hz with a power reserve of at least 65 hours.
Two straps come included, both on a quick-change system: a bright red rubber strap and a grey perforated leather racing strap with red lining.
A square case built for a car rally
Union Glashütte has run a special edition for the Sachsen Classic for years, and it’s always been built on the Noramis. Swapping in the Averin for 2026 is a real change of direction, not just a new colorway on the usual base.
In my humble opinion, the square case fits the assignment better. Union Glashütte describes the design as drawing on classic racing cars from the 1970s and ’80s, and it really shows in the final design: the dashboard-style dial reads more naturally on an angular case than a round one.
It’s also worth noting the Averin isn’t new — Union Glashütte introduced it back in 2008, and the brand has updated it more than once since. This is the line’s first turn as the face of the Sachsen Classic partnership.
Square-cased chronographs with a rare or unusual layout have had a moment recently — Shinola’s new Mackinac Night Race, built around a yacht-timer complication, is another recent example of a brand using a square case to showcase something outside the standard round chronograph.
Where to Buy It
The Averin Chronograph Limited Edition Sachsen Classic 2026 is limited to 350 numbered pieces and priced at €3,700 (roughly $4,200 USD), available through Union Glashütte and authorized retailers.
