FIRST IMPRESSIONS The Funfhundert came in a smart aluminum-type case; inside was of course the watch; a beautifully crafted solid steel case back tool (in the shape of a submarine propeller), plus a couple other extras such as a KAZIMON key chain and button; making for a very lovely presentation.
I had been eying the Funfhundert for a while, but had reservations about getting one due to its case size (42mm). I was very pleasantly surprised at how big the watch actually was in the steel, especially when presented on its all stainless steel bezel, as on the ‘S’ version, which is my favorite look for the Funfhundert.
ASETHETIC
It was the Funfhundert’s ultra modern looks that seduced me in the first place. It has a very technical quality, although rounded; there are many components of the case that are quite angular in their design such as the crown guards, the straight edges of the crown, the watch’s lug attachment system and its lug adapters.
At first glance you get the feeling that; this watch is meant to do something. I mean other than tell the time! And, I also mean even without knowing that it’s a dive watch. It has a very purposeful look.
INNNOVATION
The Funfhundert has 3 interchangeable bezels. This is an innovative concept, but one that more and more watch makers are implementing, especially micro brands, who by their very nature work harder to please and usually offer a little more than the larger watchmakers.
KAZIMON’s reason behind the bezel options is that they believe strongly that their product can stand the test of time and therefore do not wish owners to part with their watches. They make sure of this by giving them the added choice and flexibility of interchangeable bezels.
Another cool thing about the Funfhundert’s bezels, they are not specific to it either. Funfhundert bezels are compatible with other all KAZIMON dive watches, so you will be able to further increase the wearability of not only the Funfhundert, but any other KAZIMON models you own, too.
MOVEMENT
The Funfhundert makes use of an ETA 2824-2. The 25 jewel Swiss automatic movement beats at 28,000 beats per hour, and has an Incabloc integrated shock resistant system. It has 40 hours power reserve.
WATER-RESISTANCE
Funfhundert is German for 500. As its name suggests it is water-resistant to 500m or 1640ft. Pressure proof to 50 atmospheres. The Funfhundert is shock and antimagnetic (80,000a/m) resistant.
CASE
The Funfhudert’s 42mm case is constructed from three pieces of high grade titanium, which have been satin finished. Satin finishing is a very fine bead-blasting process that gives the watch a very silky smooth quality. This finish works very well with titanium's naturally dull tones.
The Funfhundert’s lug attachment system adds interest to the case. And in my opinion, looks so cool, but because of this lug system the watch would have been limited to OEM straps only. Thanks to additional lug adapters the Funfhundert can now be worn on any 22mm strap. A very smart move by KAZIMON to add this feature to the watch as having the freedom of choice is very important.
The Funfhundert has an 8mm titanium screw down crown. The look and feel of the crown is on par with watches I own that are 5 times its price. I wish it had been signed though. The crown is protected by two oversized titanium crown protectors. Ultra-modern in their design, they are a lovely enhancement to the case. The crown stem is very rigid and has a nice firm closure allowing for the Funfhundert to remain water resistant up to 1640ft.
All KAZIMON case backs carry the same design elements. It is one of the coolest case back designs going. Simple, elegant, functional and for the watchmaker in you, it comes with a very cool case back removal tool that slots beautifully into the engraved KAZIMON logo.
Its 60 click unidirectional bezel serves as a back to your dive computer for timing dives. The bezel movement is very sure and smooth. It produces lovely metallic notes as it is turned.
I was lucky enough to get my Funfhundert with all three bezel types. The all stainless steel (B type) bezel is work of art and for me is the only look for this watch. Owing to its width and lighter tones it gives the watch the illusion of looking much larger than it is. It looks pretty stunning!
The S type bezel with black insert allows for an alternative look. It also has an elapsed dive time scale. Changing it over was very simple. KAZIMON have video tutorial on their website for bezel changes.
The PVD bezel is cool idea and a must for those who like the contrasting look of PVD against bare metal. However it was not as large as the S & B type bezels and for me didn’t lend very much to the look of the watch.
An extra thick, flat sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating (on the inside) holds everything firmly in place.
STRAP
The Funhundert comes on a high quality rubber strap with a beautifully machined, brushed stainless buckle. The rubber strap is very sturdy and comfortable. The steel buckle is lovely, but I would have preferred KAZIMON to have gone the extra mile and had it signed, nevertheless it’s a quality component.
FUNCTIONALITY / Wearability
The Funfunhundert is absolutely suitable as dive watch, it’s a tough piece of kit and has everything you would ever need in a diver. When out of the water it becomes a very comfortable a good-looking wristwatch.
DURABILITY
An extra thick sapphire crystal, easily maintainable high-grade titanium and a tough workhorse like the ETA 2824-2 mechanical movement insure that your Funfhundert will last many generations.
LUME
I would rate the Funfhundert’s lume at good. It won’t burn your retinas out but it’s more than adequate.
VALUE
The Funfhundert 1290 euro including PayPal fees and worldwide shipping.
OVERALL IMPRESSION
I keep saying this, I know, but it’s such a cool looking watch, it’s so interesting to look at and photograph, you will never tire of the Funfhundert. It has great wrist presence and always attracts comments when I wear it. It’s very sporty looking yet due to its modest dimensions can be worn with smart attire.
The Funfhundert’ is a beautifully made German dive watch, and thanks to; lug adapters and interchangeable bezels it’s a highly versatile watch and one that will offer its owner plenty of enjoyment.
Finally I'd like to add that Kazim Kenzo was a terrific guy to do business with and gave me first class service, thanks, Kazim!
© OceanicTime
OVERALL RATING
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