Some watch experiences go beyond the usual showroom or trade fair setting. They happen in moments, in environments where the energy is real, the emotions are high, and the story behind the watch truly comes alive.
This is precisely what we experienced at a recent Maple Leafs game, where we stepped into the world of NORQAIN to celebrate its partnership with the NHL.
This wasn’t just another brand activation. It was a gathering of community, sport, and shared passion. Attended by WatchDNA community members Cagdas Onen alongside Head of RedBar Toronto, Mark Fleminger, making the experience even more meaningful.
Meeting a Legend: Mark Streit
One of the highlights of the evening was the opportunity to meet Mark Streit, NORQAIN’s Co-Founder and a true icon of the game.
A former captain of both the New York Islanders and the Swiss national team, Streit is widely regarded as one of the most successful Swiss ice hockey players in history. He was the first Swiss field player to break into the NHL at the highest level, and he still holds the record for most games played (786) and most points scored (434) by a Swiss player.
But beyond the stats, what stood out is his presence and passion, not just for hockey, but for what NORQAIN is building. His involvement has been instrumental in shaping the brand’s partnership with the NHL, bringing authenticity and credibility to the collaboration.
A Watch Inspired by the Game
On this special occasion, we also had the chance to get hands-on with and experience the NORQAIN Adventure Chrono 41mm NHL Limited Edition.
This is not a watch that simply references hockey. It captures it!
From the moment you see the dial, the connection is clear:
- A white textured “scratched ice” dial, echoing the texture of the rink after a fast-paced period.
- A “face-off circle” subdial at 9 o’clock, a subtle but meaningful nod to the game’s structure.
- A black NHL rubber strap incorporating material from a hockey puck, bringing a tangible piece of the sport onto the wrist.
- A white inner bezel with a heartbeat indicator and timeout sign at the 200 mark, reinforcing the rhythm and urgency of hockey.
Every detail feels intentional, designed not just for aesthetics, but for storytelling.
Limited to 1,917 pieces, the date of establishment of the NHL, this watch is more than a collectible. It’s a tribute to the sport, engineered through the lens of Swiss watchmaking.
More Than a Watch
What made this experience stand out wasn’t just the watch itself, it was the setting, the people, and the shared passion for both horology and hockey.
Moments like these remind us that watches are more than mechanical objects. They are carriers of stories, connections, and experiences.
A special thank you to Mathieu Meunier from NORQAIN, Vicken Buzbuzian and Greg Buzbuzian from Knar Jewellery for the invitation and for bringing this collaboration to life in such an authentic way.
