The Benguela is aptly named after the ocean current off the west coast of South Africa – an environment that is harsh and beautiful, the peril of many a wayward ship.
A tool watch with all the features you would expect to see from a professional diving instrument, it was built to be as rugged as the dive tools you trust.
The case features an offset knurled crown at 4 o’clock, tucked away for comfort. At 2 o’clock is the HEV (Helium Escape Valve), designed to equalise internal pressure of the watch when returning from extended periods at extreme depths.
The hooded lugs are a modern interpretation of some of the lesser-known dive brands of yore, giving the watch a distinct and aggressive character. Turn the watch over and you’ll see an incredibly deep and detailed engraving of a sea monster, inspired by the Paper Nautilus myth from South African folklore.
The dial is precisely crafted with slabs of bead-blasted steel, set on top of a sandwich dial, for a display with incredible depth. When the sun sets, the markers of the Benguela will continue to glow, thanks to a heavy application of X1-Old Radium Swiss Super-LumiNova™. The custom date wheel is also luminous, ensuring legibility even during the twilight hours.
The heart of this beast is the tried and true Japanese SII NH35A. This is a solid work-horse movement with 24 jewels, 41 hour power reserve, and both hacking and hand-winding features.
The bezel is a solid stainless construction, with precise 120-clicks that feel extremely solid and reliable. A luminous pip at 12h indicates the start time of a dive.
Each watch comes standard with a bead-blasted bracelet with micro adjust clasp, and a natural rubber strap, perfect for water sports of any kind. For a more casual look, we recommend the thick leather strap.
