Spinnaker, a small brand set on producing timepieces with a nautical design focus, has just released a new model, the Spinnaker Fleuss Automatic dive watch. The watch itself is inspired by Henry Fleuss, a British diving engineer credited with creating the first usable underwater breathing apparatus, which was successfully tested in 1879. And, while there certainly isn’t a shortage of available dive watches in 2017, the Fleuss Automatic sets itself apart by combining a range of finishes, a textured dial, and proud case proportions for an interesting look. Best of all, the watch is available directly from Spinnaker for just under $300.

On the wrist, the Fleuss Automatic’s 43mm case diameter really does show, but it isn’t cumbersome or difficult to wear even with its 13.25mm case thickness. This is mostly due to the case construction, which was carefully designed to conform to your wrist. As a result, you have a watch with modern case proportions and a vintage aesthetic, something several brands have been shying away from while downsizing the size of their cases overall. To add even more visual heft, the case features a C3 see through luminous applied vintage style acrylic bezel.

The dial layout is clean and each version of the Spinnaker Fleuss Automatic dive watch comes with a textured dial pattern that adds to the sort of vintage charm Spinnaker achieved here. Lume-filled and applied baton hour markers line the dial while Arabic numeral markers are found at the 12, 6, and 9 positions (this layout is specific to the SP-5055 models). The SP-5056 versions are slightly different, with sharp dauphine hands and trapezoid markers all around. A matching black date wheel display is positioned at 3 o’clock with a printed aperture and minimal footprint. A domed sapphire crystal keeps it all on display and Spinnaker achieved 150m of water resistance thanks to the screw-down crown.

Inside the watch is a trusty Seiko NH35, a basic Japanese automatic movement that supports the watch’s time-only display. It beats at 21,600bph, offers hacking and hand-winding, and provides 41 hours of power reserve. Each model comes with a genuine, distressed leather band that matches the dial color as well. Strap width is also 22mm, so changing straps is a breeze and the watch looks great on anything from nylon to rubber and leather.

With its robust construction, reliable movement, and legible vintage aesthetic, the Spinnaker Fleuss Automatic dive watch offers watch lovers something a little different when considering vintage-inspired divers. Appointments like a sapphire crystal are also a considerable value at this price point and Spinnaker is proud to offer this in such an easily accessible package. Currently, all versions of the Spinnaker Fleuss Automatic retail for $285 USD and you can learn more by visiting Spinnaker’s official site. If that wasn’t attractive enough, aBlogtoWatch readers can also purchase the Spinnaker Fleuss Automatic for 30% off by using the code ABW30 at checkout. spinnaker-watches.com