CLERC Hydroscaph H1 1stLook

By TLex Here's a quick precursory look at an upcoming three hands model from CLERC's new Hydroscaph H1 collection due to be officially unveiled at Basel at the end of next month. The Hysdroscaph H1 is based on the same basic chassis as previous Hydroscaph models. Constructed from high-grade Stainless steel and with over 81 individual case parts. Its dimensions are 43.80 mm / 48mm including the lateral protectors. 

Once again it features CLERC’s exclusive crown-activated rotating bezel and proprietary adaptable lug mechanism. I can’t fully see the bezel’s operating crown, so it could be a little different – I’m assuming it’s the same! The case is fitted with 4.0 mm glare-proofed Sapphire crystal and an exhibition caseback. It has a water-resistance of 500 meters / 50ATM.



The matte dial is with individually machined 3D SuperLuminova applied applique markers. They have been angled in such a way that they give the illusion that the dial is half submerged in water. Very cool! The tuning fork style handset is with an easily distinguishable fluorescent yellow colored minute hand. 

There’s a central sweep seconds hand and scrolling date window at 3 o’clock with a matching fluorescent yellow indicator. People (I included) don’t usually go for this kind of date display on a diver, but in this instance, I quite like it; you get a bit of feeling of a depth meter indicator which suits the watch well.



Under the hood is a CLERC exclusive C609 C.O.S.C Certified Chronometer self-winding movement with 21 jewels, 28’800 vib/h Bridges adorned with Côtes de Genève motif and blue screws 42-hour power reserve. Its functions include: hours, minutes, sweep second and date. The watch is presented on either a vulcanized rubber divers strap or a Louisiana alligator strap with a folding clasp.

This is CLERC's first three hands divers model since the Scuba. It has a simpler dial configuration than those with Chrono and GMT complications, which probably makes for a better 'diver' if we are to go on the premise that dive watch dials should be as clean and uncluttered as possible. It is also likely to have a slightly lower price point than previous Hydroscaph models, too. Good news all round! Stay tuned for more . . .