Richard LeGrand Atlanticus Compressor Diver Watch Review

RLG WEBSHOP

Case

Today , we are taking a look at the all new release from famed micro producer Richard LeGrand or ( RLG ) now. Their newest release is definitely a vintage inspired watch with a super compressor design. The solid 316L brushed steel case comes in at 42MM x 13MM x 48MM. These dimensions fit quite nice and much smaller than 42MM on my wrist considering the short lugs and small tip to tip length. This one kind of just sinks into the wrist weighing only 80 grams on the supplied strap. The finishing is decent, and definitely suitable for the $220 price this watch is currently being offered for from RLG. Now, we get two crowns, which is quite typical of a super compressor watch. The first crown allows us to rotate the inner bezel for a 60 minute dive timer which can also be useful in day to day situations. The second crown is screwed down for that 200M of water resistance and used for timeset. Heading to the caseback, a nice and rather refreshing new design of a ship which is raised and polished is displayed proudly.

Dial

Now, there are four different dial options - but my example is the navy / deep blue colour. It really suits the whole vintage compressor aesthetic, as well as the applied lumed “Blancpain” style markers. A nice detail is the chromed out borders surrounding them. The 12-3-6-9 markers are rectangular - matching the long rectangular lumed hands as well. It is a rather simple and symmetric dial meant for a tool like purpose. If you did not notice, RLG is printed below 12:00 instead of the Richard LeGrand we are so used to seeing. This was done for obvious reasons as “Dick” is short for Richard - and enthusiasts were basically making the joke of “The grand dick” in translation..Anyway, the lume is BGW9 and quite potent with a good bright blue shine. Overall, I think it looks clean, crisp, and to the point.

Movement

Well...NH35! Yes, I feel like I am repeating myself in almost every review. The famed Seiko NH35 automatic movement is used in this model, for good reason. It certainly helps keep the price down and is probably the most reliable and accurate movement in this sector of watches. It features 24 jewels, hand-winding, hacking, and is relatively accurate at around 5-10 seconds a day while beating at 3 HZ.

Genuine Leather / Sailcloth Band

Now, the band is probably one of my least favorite parts of the watch itself. I mean, the quality is decent...but the backside is genuine leather while the front is a faux sailcloth material that can get wet. I really think a nice rubber end fitted band would of suited this watches purpose much better as a dive watch. However, I am seeing more and more microbrand divers being offered on leather bands which is quite odd. Personally, I threw mine on a Bartons rubber band and it looked stellar. The band is 22MM and does feature a signed steel clasp.

Conclusion

Furthermore, I think RLG is offering quite a good design and specification for the coin. It has the great NH35 movement, a beautifully domed crystal, and is certainly better looking and a bit more sporty than its’ arch enemy - the Dan henry. If I honestly had to pick between this or the DH which I reviewed a few years ago..I would choose this. It fits much slimmer and comfortable on the wrist, and is much more “Minimalistic” shall I say. Anyway, thanks for taking the time to read.