A BRONZE NAIAD
The Geneva-based brand releases its famous diving watch in bronze. This limited edition consisting of only 170 pieces pays homage to a durable material which has assisted mankind for thousands of years.
In 3000BC, mankind developed a new copper and tin-based alloy called bronze, a gold-colored material resistant to corrosion and wear, which was used to forge tools, weapons, armor and other implements. Introduced to the watchmaking industry only a decade or so ago, over time, bronze has forged its way to become an indispensable part of watch collections. One of its many advantages is its gray-green patina which makes every timepiece unique. Passionate about adventure and exploration, ZRC has used this noble alloy in its new watch, the Grands Fonds Vintage 1964 Spirit Bronze model, available in only 170 pieces.
The shape of this new item draws inspiration from the Geneva-based brand’s signature model, the famous Grands Fonds chosen by the French Navy in 1964, with its case with full attachments and a crown at 6 o’clock. Like its predecessor, the 40.5 mm bronze case is also water resistant up to 300 m. In addition, it is equipped with two of ZRC’s technical innovations: the Crown Protection SystemTM and the Easy Clean System (ECSTM) which use the rotating bezel and the crown to help guarantee its superior water resistance and protect the watch from sea salt crystallization.
The dial is made of brass then covered in matte black paint before being hand patinaed, giving it the appearance of thin golden stripes. In the center, the gold Magnum hour and minute hands are open and coated with a cream luminous material known as “Old Radium”, and the lollipop style second hand is also finished with a phosphorescent dot.
The time information is provided by the ETA 2824-2 caliber, a self-winding movement which offers a power reserve of 38 hours.
Price: CHF 3 390 www.shop.zrc1904.ch
By Sharmila Bertin