Sinn 556 I MOP Black on Strap

• Verified Watch Owner Reviews (14 reviews)
SKU: SI-580

Watch Brand: Sinn

Sinn North America


Automatic winding mechanical watch with black mother of pearl dial
• Watch diameter (mm): 38.5
• Watch height (mm): 11.0
• Lug width (mm): 20
• Lug to lug (mm): 45.5
• Weight - head only (grams): 65
• Water resistance: 200 meters
• Case back: Transparent
• Case finish: Satinized
• Case metal: Stainless steel
• Dial color: Mother of Pearl
• Front crystal: Sapphire
• Calibre: SW200-1
• Movement: Automatic mechanical
• Strap or bracelet: Strap
• Manufacturer's limited warranty: 2 years
• Warranty service: RGM or Sinn

WatchPoint Rewards Logo
Learn how to earn 3280 WatchPoint Rewards

WatchBuys Direct Price: $1,640.00
Availability:  In Stock - Ships Immediately


Condition:  This Sinn watch is brand new and unworn

Authorized:  WatchBuys is Sinn's official importer and distributor
This watch ships to US, Canada, Puerto Rico, Guam and APO/FPO/DPO locations from NC using these shipping methods

Sinn 556 I MOP Black on Strap
Sinn 556 I MOP Black on Strap

(Click Image to Enlarge)
Product Details

This watch is a special edition of the Sinn 556 I Series and features a black mother of pearl dial.  Because mother of pearl is a natural product, each dial is unique, and will radiate different colors as the lighting changes.



The Sinn 556 has become one of our best selling watches of all time and for good reason - it offers a great mix of performance, durability and classic Sinn design.

This version of the Sinn 556 is marked "I" for Indices (the dial has no numerals). 

Sinn's inspiration for the design of this watch is the historic Sinn NaBo clocks, long manufactured for use in cockpits as a navigational tool.  Even today Sinn continues to produce these clocks which are used in both civilian and military aircraft, as well as specialty cars.

The difference from these clocks is that Sinn has removed all numerals from this watch and replaced them with indices.  This clean design is a primary reason that so many choose this watch as their daily wear timepiece.




The Sinn 556 I MOP features a case size at 38.5 mm which is satinized. This finish results in a slightly more polished look while at the same time retaining some characteristics of a matte finish.

Notable features of the Sinn 556 I include:
  • Case in 316L surgical stainless steel
  • Each dial is unique in black mother of pearl
  • Sapphire crystals on both sides of the watch
  • Double coated anti-reflective covering
  • Dual seal crown lock to improve water resistance
  • Sapphire crystal back to view the decorated movement
  • Premium Grade (highest) movement

This watch is fitted with a Sinn grey Alcantara fabric strap with tang buckle.

And what is very unusual for watch in this category is that Sinn has been able to engineer a water resistance of 200 meters rather than the traditional 50 to 100 meters in competing watches.

Frequently purchased with this watch:

Watch specifications are provided by the respective watch manufacturer and/or other sources. Although we use best efforts to provide accurate information, we reserve the right to make corrections when advised of specification changes and/or content errors.


WatchBuys is the official and authorized North American distributor and importer for Sinn watches.

When you purchase your new Sinn watch from WatchBuys, you'll not only get a finely engineered timepiece with excellent value for money, you'll also benefit from the WatchBuys Sinn Advantage.


WatchBuys Advantage #1

Because we are the official and authorized North American Sinn distributor and importer, your name and watch serial number will be automatically registered in our database for a Sinn manufacturer's limited warranty which we pass through.

This means that should your watch require service during the Sinn manufacturer's limited warranty period, service will be provided by Sinn in Germany when you return your watch to them. This Sinn manufacturer's limited warranty is transferable to subsequent owners as allowed by Sinn.

You are responsible for paying the shipping charges to Sinn, and all repairs that Sinn approves under its warranty are at no charge. Sinn will also pay the return shipping charges to the address you specify.

The Sinn manufacturer's limited warranty period is as follows:
  • Watches in the EZM Series: 3 years
  • Watches marked AR containing inert gas: 3 years
  • Watches in the DIAPAL Series: 5 years
  • All other Sinn models: 2 years

WatchBuys Advantage #2

As an added benefit to those who purchase Sinn watches from WatchBuys, you may choose to have your warranty repairs serviced through our US Sinn Authorized Service Center, RGM Watch Service located in Mount Joy, Pennsylvania. This added benefit saves our clients the time and effort of returning their watches to Germany for repair. This service is transferable to subsequent owners who purchase directly from the original registered owner.

Please note that you are responsible for paying shipping and insurance charges for sending your watch to RGM. Once they reach your watch in the service queue they will determine which repairs are covered under Sinn's warranty.

It is important to note that oil-filled quartz Sinn watches must be repaired in Germany (EZM 2, Hydro and UX series). If your watch meets one of these conditions and requires service under warranty, please click here for instructions on returning your watch to Sinn in Germany.


WatchBuys Advantage #3

Your watch will be repaired at no cost to you other than shipping charges to either Sinn or RGM during the warranty period. Sinn watches purchased through the "grey market" (non-authorized sources) may carry no warranty from Sinn. Sinn watches purchased through authorized overseas retailers are governed by the warranty policies of those dealers and/or Sinn, and typically must be sent to either the overseas dealer or Germany for repair.


WatchBuys Advantage #4

You'll be wearing your new Sinn watch soon after your order is placed since we stock Sinn watches and ship free using UPS Air. Plus, since we are located in the United States, there are no "hidden charges" for shipments to US residents as is the case with most overseas dealers. Such charges can add up to 15% to the cost of your new watch, and include credit card surcharges, foreign exchange credit card bank fees, import duties and taxes, and custom's broker charges.


WatchBuys Advantage #5

WatchBuys offers a comprehensive return policy with no restocking fees to US residents. Overseas dealers, including those involved in the grey market, typically don't offer a return policy, and if they do, returning a watch under the policy is both complicated and expensive due to import/export and custom's requirements. Restocking fees are also common and may range up to 15%.

Learn more about our return policies.


WatchBuys Advantage #6

WatchBuys is pleased to accept payments through PayPal, debit and credit cards. We charge no surcharges to use credit or debit cards, and because we are based in the United States your US card is charged in US dollars with no conversion or exchange rate fees.

We also accept payments from PayPal and charge no surcharges.

Please note that to pay by credit card, debit card or PayPal your account and/or card must be issued by US or Canadian financial institution and billed to a confirmed US or Canadian address.


WatchBuys Advantage #7

When you purchase your new Sinn watch from WatchBuys, you'll earn WatchPoint Rewards which accumulate and may be redeemed against future purchases.




Sinn watches feature a number of cutting edge technologies, many of which are unique to Sinn. Please note that not all Sinn watches, including the watch on this page, use all of these Sinn technologies.

Among the more notable Sinn technologies are:


Tegimented Hardened Cases

Many Sinn watches are fitted with Tegimented cases produced in-house by Sinn's case making affiliated company in Glashutte, Germany.

Standard steel used by most watch companies has a hardness of between 200 and 240 HV (Hardness Vickers is a common scale used to measure material hardness). The Tegiment process produces a hardness of at least 1,200 Vickers which is five times harder than standard steel (and on some Sinn models up to nine times harder than standard steel).

The Tegiment process is not a coating consisting of a foreign material; instead the steel itself that has been hardened using a special engineering process that creates a hardened barrier. The base material is a type of stainless steel also used for surgical implants, and the stainless steel resistance to corrosion is further improved by the Tegiment hardening process.

The primary advantages to a Tegimented case are extreme resistance to scratches and other case abrasions, as well as increased resistance to corrosion.

Please note that certain Sinn watches are fully Tegimented (case, bezel) while others are Tegimented only on the bezel. Use the links below to view both categories.

  • View Sinn watches with fully Tegimented cases.

  • View Sinn watches with Tegimented bezels only.


Dehumidification Technology

A number of Sinn models feature cases filled with inert gas. Sinn has found that filling the case with inert gas can help prevent the introduction of moisture and humidity to the case, as well as provide a more stable environment for the oils that lubricate the movement.

The proper care of any mechanical watch movement mandates that these oils maintain both their viscosity and lubrication properties.

  • View Sinn watches with dehumidification technology.


Copper Sulphate Capsules

A number Sinn models use one or more copper sulphate capsules to absorb humidity trapped inside the case. Over time these capsules will gradually turn dark blue indicating that humidity has been absorbed.

The primary benefit to these copper sulphate capsules is a more dry and stable environment for both the movement and the lubricating oils. Together with Sinn's inert gas treatment these capsules form the basis of Sinn's Dry Hold Technology.

This technology not only provides a more stable environment for the movement, but also prevents fogging of the crystal when going from hot to cold environments or from humid to non-humid conditions (such air conditioned buildings).

  • View Sinn watches with copper sulphate capsules.


Extreme Antimagnetic Protection

Magnetism can cause dramatic swings in the timekeeping of a mechanical watch movement. People are often exposed to magnetic fields without even being aware - frequent high altitude flying, metal detectors, audio and video equipment, medical equipment and computer equipment can all cause problems with magnetism.

Many Sinn watches offer extreme protection against magnetism up to 80,000 A/m. Sinn achieves these results using a number of different technologies, including special case and case back construction, soft iron components in the case and protective rings surrounding the movement.

  • View Sinn watches with extreme antimagnetic protection.


DIAPAL Oil Free Escapement

Sinn caused quite a stir when they first released their DIAPAL technology. Beginning in 1995, Sinn began work to create an oil free escapement. With any mechanical watch movement, the aging of oil, especially in the escapement can create long term problems for that movement. Additionally, as movement oil ages, required service intervals become more frequent.

Sinn's early analysis to this problem provided a quick solution (at least in theory) - if you don't use oil, it can't age. The process began by exchanging the ruby escapements for diamonds (the word "DIAPAL" derives from the German name for diamond escapements) in order to achieve the desired effect. The designation stuck, even though today Sinn works with solutions taken from advanced nanotechnology rather than diamonds.

The result is a movement that proves so reliable that Sinn offers an unprecedented five year warranty on their DIAPAL watches.

  • View Sinn watches featuring the DIAPAL oil free escapement.


Hydro Oil Filled Technology

Sinn has developed a technology termed "Hydro" in which the entire watch case is filled with oil. Watches using this technology are based on quartz rather than mechanical movements.

By using this type of movement, Sinn is able to fill the watch with oil, which has the joint affect of greatly enhancing the readability of the dial and time from any angle (including under water), and increasing the water resistance of the watch even at great depths.

  • View Sinn watches with Hydro Oil Filled technology.


Submarine Steel

Sinn has created a line of watches featuring cases made from German submarine steel (the U Series). The steel was procured by Sinn from a steel supplier to Emden GmbH, one of Germany's North Sea shipbuilding yards who construct submarines from the very same steel.

Because of the special steel used from the submarine steelmanufacturer, the case resists the effects of exposure to salt waterand salt water environments.

These cases are produced in-house by Sinn's case making affiliated company in Glashutte, Germany.

This special steel is also amagnetic which means that is does not have magnetic properties and cannot itself become magnetized. The watch movement itself is protected from magnetic fields up to 4,800 A/m.

  • View Sinn watches built from German submarine steel.



EZM Mission Timers

Sinn is a partner for manufacturing watches for the German Special Forces, including SWAT, Customs, FBI, helicopter police, GSG9 and other units.

Beginning with the now highly collectible (and valuable) Sinn EZM 1, Sinn has grown this collection to some of the most durable and highly functional watches made and they remain among the most popular in the collection.

  • View Sinn watches in the EZM Series.


Watch Reviews From Verified WatchBuys Buyers
100% • Verified Watch Owner Reviews100% • Verified Watch Owner Reviews (14 reviews)

Beautiful Dial

"Beautiful Dial"

Verified Watch Owner Comments: Mother of pearl dial is even more mesmerizing in person than I thought it would be. Overall quality of the watch is top-notch. Could not be happier with the purchase

Great Experience Overall, Incredible Watch Dial

"Great Experience Overall, Incredible Watch Dial"

Verified Watch Owner Comments: I had very great service from a specific individual named Daniel (funny enough we have the same name). UPS tried to deliver the watch on two separate occasions, both of which were early afternoon while I was at work. UPS had re-routed my package to a facility, and it was honestly a headache to get the watch.

Daniel was there to always help and provide updates, however.

The watch dial itself is spectacular. I specifically love collecting watches with unique dials, and this dial holds its own versus my Omega, Rolex, and others. The changing hues, depending on the light and angle, is mesmerizing and I continue to find new color patterns. Very quality watch too, as it is Sinn. Highly recommend!

Elegant, Rugged, and Understated

"Elegant, Rugged, and Understated"

Verified Watch Owner Comments: The Sinn 556 MOP Black is an elegant yet robust watch that offers an incredible amount of value to the owner. From an aesthetic standpoint, this model essentially gives you two looks in one, since the dial can take on a number of characteristics depending on the lighting conditions. It can range from a dark slate-ish black to a fiery display of reds, greens, purples, and blues. By experimenting with different strap/bracelet combinations, this watch could be a real chameleon. The german-engineered ruggedness of the case, as well as the impressive 200m water resistance, makes this an ideal watch to enjoy on the daily without fear of damaging it. Lastly, the movement is incredibly reliable and well finished, and can reasonably expected to run accurately for years without service intervention. A seasoned watch technician can regulate these movements to run as accurately as +/- 1 second per day! Overall, I find it difficult to find a comparable watch to the Sinn 556 MOP at this price po... - more details

Incredible watch

"Incredible watch"

Verified Watch Owner Comments: Honestly one of my favorite watches and my first Sinn. The comfort of the bracelet and the size make it a perfect everyday watch that is subtle most of the time and has some amazing pop in the light. I don’t know what it is about it but it’s become the main watch I grab everyday just because it works for almost anything. Love it!

Beautiful

"Beautiful"

Verified Watch Owner Comments: The MOP dial almost feels like it’s becoming more and more interesting the longer I have the watch. In different lighting and and situations I notice new things about it. I missed the fact that there is no date when I ordered and that’s pretty much the only thing I’d change. Love wearing it and hope to have it for a long time.

Subtle but colorful

"Subtle but colorful"

Verified Watch Owner Comments: Very nice watch with a touch of color. Overall very pleased. -Pros Dial in MOP Finishing & applied indices 38.5mm is perfect for a field watch Accuracy & precision +2spd -Cons A bit thick Doesn't always sit flat on my wrist- better on bracelet? Buying the bracelet later, unavailable with bracelet

Sinn 556 I MOP Black On Strap

"Sinn 556 I MOP Black On Strap"

Verified Watch Owner Comments: This is a beautiful watch that manages to be very versatile even though the dial is so distinctive. The 38.5 mm size makes it suitable as a dress watch, and the case is thin enough to slide under a shirt cuff. But the 200mm water resistance and robust stainless steel allow it function very well as a sport watch as well. With MOP, every dial varies - the MOP on your dial may look significantly different from someone else's. I was initially a little disappointed in what I perceived as a lack of iridescence in my dial. But bear in mind that Black MOP is very dark and in certain light just looks black or charcoal gray. In other situations, it really pops. That's what makes it a unique watch. Black MOP has a more masculine feel than white MOP, although I could certainly imagine this as a unisex watch. The strap is pliant and very wearable, but I'm hoping to buy a steel bracelet soon so I can more comfortably swim with it. Great watch overall - would be an interesting yet wearable additi... - more details

Absolute stunner

"Absolute stunner"

Verified Watch Owner Comments: If you think you want this for the dial just go ahead and buy the watch. You won't be disappointed. The photos don't do this watch justice. The colors change depending on lighting condition, it's like the photo is showing you just one way the watch can look, when it really looks different each time you check.

It really is much, much more fun to wear than I expected. Craftsmanship is fine for the price. Movement is well decorated and the strap is comfortable. But this watch is 100% about the dial. You know if you want it.

Great Sinn

"Great Sinn"

Verified Watch Owner Comments: This is my second special order Sinn and I am very pleased with the process and product. Accuracy of this watch is within COSC when fully wound. Natural dial material is more diffuse than pictured and predominantly grey until certain angle of light hits it the Alcantara strap accentuates this (seems a bit darker to me in person vs photo).

Light play on indices is clear without being overstated given the middle is less reflective lume visibility of lume is good, especially on the hands (strip within indices is very narrow). AR is above average and case is perfect.

Great watch, great service

"Great watch, great service"

Verified Watch Owner Comments: My experience was excellent all around. Questions I had before and after purchase were promptly and accurately answered. Shipping and notifications kept me in the loop.

The watch itself is unique, solid and very accurate. Face varies depending on light sources from black to iridescent. Pictures cannot do it justice.

Beautiful dial

"Beautiful dial"

Verified Watch Owner Comments: This watch has a beautiful but somewhat subdued black MOP dial. It has the appearance of clouds and is colorful in reflected light. I ordered the H link bracelet as I prefer it to the stock strap. It is a fine size for my 7.5 wrist and is quite accurate. A welcome addition to the collection.

MOP is GREAT

"MOP is GREAT"

Verified Watch Owner Comments: This is the third Sinn watch I’ve purchased from Watch Buys. I had seen the mother of pearl dial offered on the Sinn 556 in the European market, but due to its unavailability in the US market, I had to wait patiently for the day it would become available to me. This model has been sold above retail on the gray market for awhile (an indication of its desirability even when sold as "used”). As soon as I learned that it was available for purchase on the US market, I bought it without hesitation. After waiting 30 days for its arrival, I received it with great joy. It looks great and runs great. The black MOP dial appears solid black in some light but suddenly transforms into a multi colored display with a slight turn of the wrist. This is by far one of the best quality mother of pearl dials I have seen. The strap comfortably fits my 7 inch wrist, but if you have a slimmer wrist you may want to request a short length watch strap instead of the provided standard length. Don’t hesitate ... - more details

Beautiful!

"Beautiful!"

Verified Watch Owner Comments: I received my Sinn 556 Mother of Pearl, and I have to say, this watch is even more stunning, in person. I love this because it works for both men and women. I am a female with a 6 wrist and the 38 case fits beautifully. My husband has much larger wrists than I do, and it looks great on him, as well.

Watchbuys kept me informed while it was on order. It came in way sooner than I had anticipated, so that was an extra bonus. I love doing business with this company because their customer service is amazing! Sinn is a great watch brand and we will always continue to buy them from Watchbuys. I can't say enough about them.

Sinn 556 black mother of pearl

"Sinn 556 black mother of pearl"

Verified Watch Owner Comments: This is a great watch and I’m very pleased with it! The black mother of pearl dial gives off multicolor light reflections in the sun or under bright light but "sits quietly” as a plain black dial in lower light. It’s a different look but I wanted a watch nobody else would have. It’s also true what internet posters say that pictures on watch forums or even the ones here on Watchbuys. don’t really do the dial justice. I bought the watch somewhat on faith about how it would look and was not disappointed in the least. It is keeping great time and the build quality is high. I was nerding out peering through a loupe for the first few days (good thing I’m working from home) to appreciate the quality and detail. 556 is not a "dressy” line but this model works as a dress option especially being three hand only. tried the watch on a matte black leather strap and its look went more formal. Drilled lugs for strap changes are a nice feature from Sinn and I predict this watch will be a strap mon... - more details