2023-05-04

NAVI by GYAVIUS [honed to perfection]

This is the NAVI, a mechanical tool diver that has been designed, developed, and manufactured in-house by GYAVIUS, an independent micro-brand; one that specializes in the creation of exceptionally hand-built and handcrafted timepieces that command attention. These are manufactured in very limited series, only a few each month which allows GYAVIUS to insure that each watch is meticulously and fastidiously handcrafted. And then finally lovingly hand-finished before being sent out to their faithful patrons all around the world. Today for the first time GYAVIUS who are already known for their tank-like, handmade wristwatch creations have made their first foray into the world of diver’s watches and they have left little to chance. They have dedicated years to the perfection of their diver’s watch concept, refining numerous prototypes and models to create a diver’s watch that is distinct in style while also adhering to those sacred design codes enshrined by those of us that love and appreciate true diver’s watches. This is the NAVI ,GYAVIUS’ final and best take on that dive watch concept with its retro-futuristic style that while unique still maintains an aesthetic that will appeal to anyone that appreciates clean, simple and elegant looking tool diver’s. The NAVI boasts a 45 millimeter in diameter case with integrated lug bars. The main case has been made from surgical-grade, 316L Stainless steel. From top to bottom the watch measures just 50 millimeters so that it will actually wear like a much smaller watch. And with a case thickness of only 13 millimeters (including its domed crystal) and its strap width of 22mm, it will slip just as comfortably under a shirt sleeve as it can be strapped over a diver’s neoprene wetsuit. Equipped with its solid Stainless steel case-back, prominently domed mineral crystal glass as well as its double sealed screw-down crown whose sleek profile protrudes gently on the side of the watch, the NAVI was successfully tested to just over 100ATM of atmospheric pressure which is approximately 1’000 meters underwater. Its sleek yet sophisticated look is underscored by hand brushed finishing on its case combined with case sides that have been polished to a high sheen creating a beautiful amount of contrast while adding further touches of elegance to the overall design. The NAVI also features a bi-directional 60-click bezel and a matte black dial that is pad printed in the traditional manner. Its lume has been painstakingly applied by hand to ensure that a copious amount is deposited, resulting in a highly satisfying sculpted relief effect. A perfect match to the minimalistic brushed Stainless steel hands and indeed the Zen-like ray motif with a pair of white manta rays creating this sort of Yin and Yang logo, a finishing touch to the watch face’s carefully balanced design. Power comes from the highly proven Swiss Made workhorse, the Sellita automatic SW200-1. The entire watch has been designed, prototyped, and manufactured in-house by GYAVIUS. The NAVI will be manufactured in small batches, with everything except the movement made in-house, ensuring that each watch is a unique masterpiece. With less than 50 examples produced in each batch the NAVI’s production is therefore limited according to the watchmakers’ ability to manufacture them. The watch comes with a striking Capsule packaging that not only protects your watch but also serves as a stylish display stand. Every watch will be assigned a distinctive number and will be accompanied by a smart card. This smart card will provide you with access to the GYAVIUS database, where you can view specifications and manufacturing information, such as build dates and batches, for your particular watch. The NAVI GYAVIUS has an RRP of 2'760USD. You can order yours HERE. Thoughts? I’m no watch designer but I do know a thing or two about what it takes to create a good looking dive watch. And it doesn’t take a degree from the Royal College of Art to go the classic, tried and tested route when conjuring up a new design. You’ll likely be met with success. However a far tougher task in watch design is to develop a look that seamlessly blends elements from the past with the future. Creating something fresh and easy on the eyes, a design that could even have what it takes to be a future classic itself. This is a compelling new prospect in the hand-built diver’s watch segment. It looks good and spec. wise it appears to have the goods too. And thanks to its lug-less case design the NAVI is just as easy on the wrist as it is on the eyes!

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