THE ESSENTIALS

MAKE: ORFINA PORSCHE DESIGN
MODEL: 7176S
YEAR: 1978
BOX/PAPERS: NO/NO
CASE DIAMETER: 41mm
CASE MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
BRACELET MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
MOVEMENT: AUTOMATIC 

In 1972, Ferdinand Porsche, the mastermind behind the legendary brand, set out to create lifestyle accessories with the same engineering ethos as his cars. This venture led to the birth of the Porsche Design Studio and, most notably, the PD01 watch. Imagined as a timepiece that wouldn't distract a driver zipping through the Bavarian Forest on a frosty morning, achieved by following closely the design language employed in the dials of the cars themselves.

Ferdinand discovered Physical Vapour Deposition (PVD) right around this time. This cutting-edge process transforms material from liquid to vapour by utilising a vacuum deposition method for paint coating, which in turn creates a robust finish. It was a perfect match for the PD01, affectionately dubbed the "Obsidian Looking watch" by Ferdinand himself.

For this venture, Ferdinand paired up with Orfina, a then-obscure watch brand owned by his close friend, Umberto Maglioli, a star of the racing world with stints at Lancia, Ferrari, and Porsche. Maglioli, a two-time F1 podium finisher and the 1954 Carrera Pan Americana winner, ended his racing career at Porsche Engineering in 1969. This bond led to a trust that extended beyond the racetrack to timekeeping.

Orfina is known for another reason — its iconic appearance on Maverick's wrist in Top Gun; the 7176S, which was a PVD version of the model we have for sale and is famed for its ability to handle 7G forces without noticeable loss in performance - like those one might encounter piloting an F-14 Tomcat, for example.

Our particular 7176S is a rare find from the last production batch. It boasts the revered Lemania 5100 movement, with tritium hands and dial that have aged to perfection. Unpolished to maintain its original character and the bracelet is ready for a 17.5cm wrist.