There was a time when a dive watch that started out life in plain Stainless steel got its second release with some sort of black PVD or DLC coating.
However these days the natural progression for many a diver’s collection; seems to be Stainless steel then bronze.
What was once thought as fad has become a regular feature, particularly in the diver’s segment. Baltic are the latest brand to adopt this ancient material for their diver’s model.
Often used in maritime industries due to its high resistance to saltwater corrosion, bronze is unique in that its appearance will dramatically change over time.
While bronze is indeed an ancient material, with its first use dating back literally millennia, the Aquascaphe Bronze uses a modern CuAL8 bronze, which is a resistant copper-aluminum alloy.
In addition to its strength, another benefit is that it slowly develops a uniformed patina all-over rather than the typical mottled patina.
The polished finishing on the case and the bezel ensure a stable aging depending on the wearer's habits, making each watch a unique.
The watch case has a diameter of 38mm or 39mm with the bezel, with lug to lug measurement of 47mm and a thickness of 12mm.
The watch also has a double-domed Sapphire crystal. The watch’s profile is 10mm in height or 12mm if you include the double Sapphire crystal.
The Aquascaphe Bronze adopts many of Baltic’s design features such as its use of a new crown protector as well as maxi-hands. The dial features a subtle, sunray finish that changes its shade of blue when exposed to light.
Baltic have also developed a unique dark blue soft rubber Tropic-style strap that comes with a bronze buckle.
Water-resistance is 200m. Power comes from the humble Japanese Miyota 9015. MSRP is approx. 580euro.
Thoughts? It’s a nice watch – imho Stainless steel is a better option but the Aquascaphe does look good in bronze.
My only misgiving is the size; 38mm while popular with the common or garden variety, vintage watch nerd, for the rest of us, it’s positively piddly.
On an unrelated note, did you ever see Baltic’s Aquascaphe VIDEO – it’s kinda’ a must see mainly cos’ the gent who does the voiceover has such a charismatic British accent – he’s pure class. Such a cool vid, too.
Meanwhile who the f#@k did they use for voiceover for the Aquascaphe Bronze VID – sounds like a North American Stephen Hawking – utterly sh!t! Have a great weekend!
Not great
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