Farer Revisits The Stanhope With All New Case

Farer is returning to one of their classics from 2018 with a new Stanhope II. A familiar dial is set within an entirely new case architecture that pays tribute to the first Stanhope, all without losing sight of the character that we found so charming when we first reviewed the watch in 2018. This Stanhope II launches in the same colorway we saw back then, but should open the door for additional dials later this year, leaving this example to serve as a fitting display for the new 38.5mm case. And yes, it’s still hand wound. 

The new case features a three-piece construction that presents a creative take on the cushion shape, adding some dimension to the equation with a central body that is placed within a broader structure. There’s some tension created by the sharp tips of the inner square appearing to push the boundaries of the much softer exterior case, inviting a closer look in the process. There’s depth to the surfaces, which transition via polished chamfer, providing plenty of visual weight to this otherwise conservatively sized watch.

You may remember the original Stanhope measured just 37mm in diameter, with the dial dominating the case, and this Stanhope II balances that relationship with a bit more real estate given to the case itself bringing the measurement to 38.5mm here. This also means a more substantial lug design that resembles the ears of Batman’s cowl. The additional 1.5mm are welcome, and Farer have taken full advantage of the extra space to create a more mature and visually interesting Stanhope. The case measures 10.5mm in thickness, and 43.8mm from lug to lug. Overall, still a very wearable watch. 

The dial itself is very similar to that of the original, which is a good thing to my eye. It consists of three layers, beginning with the sunken chapter ring and subsidiary seconds. It is here in these spaces that we find Farer’s typically inventive application of color, from blues to reds, none of which jump out at a glance, but rather force a closer look to fully appreciate. The main layer of the dial sets a piqué texture within the off-white palette, which isn’t quite overpowering, but certainly draws your attention before the previously mentioned color. Lastly, large applied numerals and hour batons jump off the dial in dramatic fashion.  

Inside, Farer is using the manually wound Sellita SW216-1 elaboré grade movement, with a bespoke embossed bridge visible through the exhibition caseback. That Stanhope II is available to pre-order now for the price of $995, with shipping expected to begin early May. We’ll have hands-on impressions with this watch coming soon, until then head to Farer for more information.