ISOTOPE HydriumX WILL RETURN [open all hours?]

Something whimsical this way comes! 

I told myself a long time ago that if I am ever to post anything affordable that it better bloody well be interesting – I’m pretty sure this qualifies. 

This is the new Hydrium™ X "Will Return" diver’s watch from the UK’s Isotope Watches and it is the diving embodiment of one the most iconic clock door signs.

Inspired by their many trips to New York, where the traditional clock door sign hung patiently in the window informing when the store will reopen; 

Isotope has created the ultimate souvenir for themselves and their fans in the new HydriumX “Will Return” diver’s watch.

The charming teardrop design of its hour and minute hands are said to be similar to Isotope’s "Lacrima" (whatever that is when it’s at home) while the adopted dial motif ties in with other Isotope designs. 

When the Pandemic reared its ugly mug at the end of 2019, Isotope started creating and adapting their quirky design for the real world.

After two years and several iterations; they are finally ready to put the watch into a numbered Limited Edition production series of 100 pieces. 

The "Will Return" is available on a bespoke watch case inspired by droplets and by the fluidity from the Streamline Moderne era – capeesh?

The watch case which measures 40mm in diameter has been machined from Stainless steel and given a toolish aesthetic thanks to a micro-bead-blasted finish – 

while AR-treated Sapphire crystal covers the dial, and more Sapphire has been inlayed into the 120-click unidirectional diver’s bezel as well the watch’s open case-back adding plenty of refinement.

The "Will Return" is more than capable of a withstanding up to 30 atm (300m) of pressure thanks to its screw-down case-back and crown, should you find yourself wanting to take such an odd little fellow with you on your next dive – and why wouldn’t you, it’s so darn cute? 

Meanwhile the gloss white dial which has been generously stocked with Swiss Super-LumiNova allowing for maximum visibility in the dark naturally remains, Open all Hours! ;)

Finally the "Will Return" Limited Edition diver comes with a Japanese Miyota 9039 automatic no date movement ensuring that the watch face remains as close to the original design as possible. 

It will come on 22mm quick-release Cordura and FKM straps with a signed micro-blasted Stainless steel buckle.

Btw, the photos shown are of one of the prototypes; if the final watch doesn’t come with a Swiss Movement, the Swiss Made seal will be replaced by Great Britain. 

MSRP is £563. However you can PRE-ORDER the new Hydrium™ X "Will Return" diver’s watch for just £450 by using code HydriumWillReturn when pre-ordering. Its expected delivery date is March 2022.

Thoughts? This immediately put a smile on my face; it’s perfect timing for something that doesn’t take itself too seriously. 

Do it with a Swiss movement and I’ll bite your arm off but I still want Great Britain on the dial whatever is inside! What do you think, folks?