In this edition of aBlogtoWatch’s “Watch What-If” series, designer Niklas Bergenstjerna re-imagines some modern dive watches with a vintage bronzed look. Initially inspired by the Oris Carl Brashear Limited Edition Dive Watch, Niklas imagined what some some contemporary divers would look like if bronze were the material of choice rather than steel. The four watches he re-imagined are: the Bremont Supermarine 500 (seen above and reviewed here); the TAG Heuer Aquaracer (hands-on here); the Cartier Calibre Diver (reviewed here); and the Breitling SuperOcean Heritage Chrono (reviewed here). Here is what Niklas has to say:
Oris recently released their retro-designed Oris Divers Sixty-Five in a limited-edition bronze version. The warm appearance of this new watch really puts in perspective the impact material has on a watch design. Could bronze be an opportunity to breathe new life into some of the classic marine inspired watch designs?
Panerai, for example, has a rich history of bronze watches. Should the established brands explore bronze further? Here are a few examples of some classics turning bronze to get your imagination going.
The TAG Heuer Aquaracer with a deep blue dial and bronze case evokes a feeling of the mystery of the deep along with the feeling of whimsical adventure that comes with the idea of diving for sunken treasure.
The Cartier Caliber Diver in bronze with an almost oxidized green leather strap is certainly something you’d expect to find on the wrist of a well traveled ship’s captain or admiral.
The Breitling SuperOcean Chrono with dark brown dial is moody and evokes the dark unknown of the endless ocean at night.
The Bremont Supermarine 500m has a bezel that is almost reminiscent of the suckers on an Octopus tentacle, and the bronzed dial looks like the watch has spent years at the bottom of the ocean.
Niklas Bergenstjerna is a freelance graphic designer and watch lover based in the south of Sweden. niklex.com