An article by Ulrike Hudelmaier
What’s better than a great timer? Two great timers!
Especially if, like me, you have a soft spot for well-thought-out and innovative planning systems.
So I recently bought the X47 in both the large (A5) and small (A6) sizes, and I’m really excited about them. Although I’m now straying from my previous routine of always jotting down all my data, ideas, and notes in a small, handy format and always having everything with me, I get the impression that the switch is worth it—because both formats are interchangeable to a certain extent and complement each other.
With the A5-sized planner, I can write much better at my desk than I can in mini-planner formats. I carry the small A6 one in my pocket to jot down any flashes of inspiration and appointments in the monthly layout. Working on paper has turned out to be extremely practical. I did try electronic solutions right from the very beginning (of course—it’s a weakness of mine; see above), but it’s just not the same. What you write down by hand really “sticks” in your brain—quite unlike what you type. And I’m convinced it’s processed better and leads to more creative results.
So now, the X47. We don’t usually do any advertising here, but this time it’s a little different—because this system is more than worthy of a technology center.
It was created by a founder from Saarbrücken, who first brought the idea to market in 2002: Even as a college student, Matthias Büttner was annoyed by the large, space-wasting ring-binder mechanisms in conventional planners (which, because they’re strictly designed for right-handed people, have have been a source of frustration) and developed a system with an external rail and permanently bound booklets that snap into a spring mechanism. The whole thing comes in handcrafted leather covers and is entirely “made in Germany”—well, not quite; the spring bars come from Switzerland.
The calendar system that goes with it is well thought out and doesn’t restrict me—I’ve tried out quite a few different approaches over the years and, for about 10 years now, have settled on my own personal system of “radical simplification,” which is very well supported by the X47’s weekly calendar.
I’ve been in touch with Matthias Büttner and his team quite a bit lately, mostly by email, but also by phone. I really appreciated their prompt responses and the interesting discussions about the product and our approach—not to mention the fast deliveries. That’s what great customer service looks like!
My awesome timer is the result of an innovative startup founded by dedicated people in a very challenging market environment. That makes it even more fun to use!
For more information: www.x47.com
