LINDE WERDELIN Oktopus NORD

Linde Werdelin has just debuted a new watch collection inspired by the North Sea – and one of the two models in this collection, known as the Nord collection is a strong contender for the ultimate high-end, indie, tool-diver (not sure what else could be in that category, I’ll think on that). LW’s new essential Nord collection not only extends its high-tech, ultra-lightweight, SpidoLite family (you can find more on that on their website) but more importantly adds a further member to their flagship diver’s watch family, the OKTOPUS.

Introducing the new Oktopus Nord, inspired by the cold dark undulating body of water, with its ever darker blue depths that is the North Sea and much like the shifting colors of the North Sea’s depths – 

the black/blue fumé dial on the Oktops Nord features varied gradations of inky blue and black; and so that it has the ability to survive in such an environment (the depths of the North Sea that is), its dial is surrounded by a sandblasted, highly saltwater anti-corrosive, Grade 2 Titanium case.

The Oktopus Nord also introduces Linde Werdelin’s first Oktopus series with a full Grade 2 Titanium main case (btw all previously manufactured Oktopus of this generation have a ceramic bezels). 

The case construction which provides up to 300m of water-resistance was inspired by a diving bell. A central piece containing the movement symbolizes protection of life while the outer case parts serves functionality with a strap.

Speaking of which, the Oktopus Nord can be paired with a range of straps, including LW’s natural rubber strap that consists of 30% recycled rubber, representing the brands continuous shift towards the use of more sustainable watch-making materials. The watch gets its power via a modified Dubois Dépraz double date movement – the time of which is displayed on a two layer dial comprising an upper layer dial laser-cut in stencil technique with both layers individually handcrafted to create the gradations in blue and black. Meanwhile the hands are in Stainless steel with a satin finish and ultramarine luminova applied to them as well as the indexes. The Oktopus Nord is a Limited Edition of just 88 numbered pieces. MSRP in the UK where LW are headquartered is £ 8’000.

Thoughts? We’ve seen a few LW Oktopus models introduced over the past decade or so, but for me this is the best looking yet. 

Not only does it come with that lovely blue dial but it has the perfectly complete utilitarian style thanks to its bead-blasted Titanium case – 

plus there’s the custom movement, and all the exclusivity that comes from a mere 88 pieces - and least we forget the eight-armed critter on its case-back. But what do you think - this or something a little more mainstream?