It really makes a lot of sense for there to be a real diver’s watch in the Titanic DNA collection from Romain Jerome. I mean the whole idea of the collection is to commemorate something that is deep underwater. Well, the Titanic DNA diver is here with the RJ Octopus. The Octopus name is actually part of the “octo” theme which involves the number 8. There are special 8 sided screws in parts of the case, it is water resistant to 888 feet, and it will be part of a limited edition of 888 pieces in a few varieties.
The Titanic DNA Octopus is a pretty neat watch. It builds on the Titanic DNA core collection as well as some of the newer RJ Steampunk models. Please note that the model you see here is still a pre-production prototype. A lot of little things will change. Especially the bezel which here hasn’t been fully oxidized to achieve the proper look and color. The watch case is 46mm wide with the case claws and “X” moving through the dial. The base dial is unique on each piece as it is individually hand brushed and meant to look a bit worn. There are large blue SuperLumiNova lumed hour markers, as well as indicators on the reverse side of the sapphire crystal. I also like the iconic brand hands now with lumed tips that are easy to see.
As you can see the case is available in steel or PVD coated steel. There is also a version with 18k rose gold accents. Each has a distinct personality to it, and I think the overall collection is certainly a unique and fitting Titanic DNA diver. I just wished it was not still in the prototype phase.
The Octopus has a unique feature that I believe is a world’s first. Turning the bezel actually turns the sapphire crystal as well – and this is how you operate the rotating diver’s bezel (as the indicators on the sapphire crystal itself. I thought that was pretty cool. RJ didn’t want me showing you the back of the watch yet as it is not complete, but there will be a very richly engraved octopus that is hovering over the RJ logo. It will be a really cool design for the Octopus theme. Attached to the watch is a high-grade rubber strap which on the underside has an octopus tentacle-like design with “suction cups.” Nice little touch right there, and on par with the attention to detail RJ watches tend to focus on.
With a release scheduled for probably the summer or fall, the Romain Jerome Titanic DNA Octopus is a nice first dive watch for the brand. Like all RJ watches the limited edition will be only 888 pieces. If it is successful I anticipate other possible variants to come later. The watch will come in a diving helmet style watch box that completes the presentation. The box should me a good addition to your aquarium as a home for your real-life pet Octopus. www.romainjerome.ch
