Second Hour Gin Clear Dive Watch Review

Custom Leather Carry Case

Kickstarter Launch March 29 2020 - $385 Early Slots!

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Case

Today we will take a peek at the upcoming premiere launch of the Gin Clear Diver by Second Hour Watches - a new microbrand based out of Australia. The new Gin Diver features all those things we hope for in a rugged diver such as a solid 316L stainless steel case with dimensions that are wearable. This piece measures in at 41MM x 49MM x 12.5MM thick. The lug opening is 22MM which is pretty typical for a 41MM size case. The case has a rather smooth and nice brushed finish which sits and curves well to the wrist with its' downward slightly curved lugs. In terms of water resistance we are looking at a standard 200 Meters - which is essential to call this a true dive watch or a watch that you can actually take diving. The screw down signed crown is nicely protected with large crown guards and threads in and out with ease. Keep in mind there will be slight changes for the final models such as chamfered edges on the lugs, a light brushed bezel insert, drilled lug holes, and a greater crown length. If we head to the caseback the watch really comes to life with the beautifully crafted custom caseback which features a turtle with waves which is raised and executed with great precision and detail.

Dial

Now there are a few dial color options if you watched the video and even more if stretch goals are released. The Pastel blue is the color we have in hand today and it is quite stunning in person. It gives off nice hues of pastel to baby and light blue colors which matches nicely with the black ceramic 120 Click Lumed bezel. Nice details such as the large and legible multi-shaped applied markers and raised text at 12:00 and 6:00 give this watch a distinct and classy look. If I did not mention, the markers, hands, and bezel are filled with plenty of BGW9 lume which glows blue and is quite potent if you watched the video. ( More will be added on bezel ). The crystal featured of course is a genuine ar coated sapphire which keeps things legible in high light conditions ( one more layer added in production ). Overall, it is what a dive watches dial is supposed to be - legible - easy to read - and well proportioned.

Movement

This watch is powered by the trusty SW200 automatic Swiss Made caliber, and at a Kickstarter launch price of $385 I think this is what we should be getting. This movement contains 24 jewels, hacking, hand winding, and a 38 Hour power reserve. It is a movement that can last some years if properly taken care of every so often. In terms of accuracy it all depends, but I have found that most watches with Selittas are usually more accurate than off the shelf ETA 2824s.

Steel Bracelet

The solid steel brushed bracelet is fitted with solid end links and tapers down to 18 at the clasp. It is a rather comfortable one with an H link pattern, screw links, and a custom clasp with 6 micro adjustments for precise fit. The links themselves are articulating which makes it easier to wear and mold to the wrist. It is a good quality bracelet I must admit and I do not believe any shortcuts were taken here. A nice detail in the clasp is the polished sides which do match the polished flanks of the Gin Clear bracelet.

Conclusion

Furthermore, I think for their first model from a new company with a Pre Order price below $400 for this style and spec is not a bad offering at all. The quality is definitely there as is the thought. I like that this watch represents a true dive/tool watch and at the same time I an picture myself wearing this dressed in a suit for work, or just casually wearing a pair of shorts on a hot summer day. It certainly is a versatile piece, and a very useful one that can be worn daily.