OCEAN7 History 2 * LOCKED *

[elmo1981]

I like the original small grooves better!!!!!

[MitchSF]

No logo yet. We should have it on Friday. Things don't always work out the way we want. Our logo designer didn't do the job.

I guess we're leaning toward large bezel grooves. I like the small ones better, but the overwhelming opinion seems to go for the large ones.

Mitch

[clayton T]

I also put in a vote for the LARGE bezel grooves. They work better both functionally and aesthetically.

-CT

[Tim got his boots back]

I regards to the bracelet, I am inclined to agree with reactionary about maybe casting an eye on the Seiko Monster bracelet. Of all the metal bracelets that have come out within the last two years, nothing impresses me more than the monster bracelet. I think it looks like a tank track. Very testostoronial (new word??). The fact that Seiko could have one produced and supplied with the monster at a very reasonable price point is something to consider. At 24mm, it would be very industrial and imposing!!

I too, like the large teeth on the outer bezel. Sort of reminds me of a huge gear!!

In regards to the minute indices, I would tend to lean towards something in between what you have suggested and Brad's illustration. Large but not of equal length to the 5 min. markers. A tad shorter maybe. But either way, it's quite fine with me.

The overall design is exceptional. A very simple, clear design. Congrats to all involved and I'm very lucky to have made it on the list.

[MitchSF]

Thanks for the comments, guys.

I have a monster, and I'll take a good look at the bracelet, when the time comes. That's a good idea, Tim.

As to the dial, we'll leave it as is, and the hands too, other than deciding on the inlays.

I guess we'll have to go with large bezel grooves, unless the tide changes.

We already have two small delays - our logo designer flaked, and watch manufacturers are all in Bazel, Switzerland this week for the SIHH show. Figures!

Mitch

[daluzz]

For what it's worth, guys, I'd encourage you to stick with your own instincts on these final details.

I think it's great that you've been so willing to listen, but ultimately, design by committee is far less successful than a singular vision strongly expressed. (I could mention the product of another collaborative project on another board, which resulted in one of the fugliest expensive dive watches on the planet, but let's not get into that.)

I prefer smaller grooves to bigger ones, but far more important to me is that y'all make the decision that best comports with your vision. Give me what you two think will look best; I guarantee that it'll be a better articulation of design integrity than anything I can add.

[MitchSF]

Hi Guys,

Here's the latest drawing. It's hosted elsewhere because I didn't want to reduce the size in order to upload it to WUS. You can right-click on the link to download the picture.

http://www.accutronservice.com/ocean70406.jpg


The top views look good. We will use wider bezel grooves, but not as wide as in the drawing. The luminous marker at 6:00 should be the same size as those at 3 and 9.

The side view needs more work. The crown is not shown correctly. The case will be slightly flattened where the crown meets it. The lugs will be the full height of the case. Here they look like they were tacked on as an afterthought. The flat spot on the bottom of the lugs will be larger. The case back will be about 2mm smaller in diameter than the case, and the rear of the case will be beveled to meet the case back.

Is 16.5mm including the crystal, too much depth? We can cut it down by a mm or two, but we want to leave room for a slightly larger movement in the near future (hint).

Here's another question? Would you prefer a bead blasted case, or a brushed finish? I like the bead blasted look, but there is no home remedy for scratches. It's easy for anyone to remove light scratches on a watch with a brushed finish.

No, PVD will not be offered initially.

Daluzz - Good point, we will keep that in mind. The watch design was 95% finished before we posted it anywhere, and we're most interested in making changes that will affect useability and wearability, rather than styling.

Logo - Since our designer flaked, we did the obvious and best thing - we made an arrangement with JDiver, to finish his original concept. The logo will be ready to go shortly.

Comments?

Thanks,

Mitch & LaHugh

[Brad Trent]

MitchSF wondered: "...Would you prefer a bead blasted case, or a brushed finish?"

Do you mean a bead-blasted case with a brushed bezel? If so, then I'd say maybe...but all bead-blasted, I dunno. I'd probably stick with a brushed finish for the obvious reason you stated...getting a scratch buffed out on a brushed finish is easy. Over time, a bead-blasted finish will probably look kinda banged up with no simple way to fix it!

I know you wanna have a distinct look, but there's a reason brushed stainless is so popular...it just really makes sense on a dive watch.

As for the depth...no worries as far as I'm concerned since my Schaumburg is even thicker!

BT

[MitchSF]

Brad,

It was originally going to be all bead blasted, with the outer part of the bezel only, in a brushed finish. I think you're right.

BTW, I still spend time staring at the PVD version you did. Very nice!

Mitch

[Brad Trent]

Hey...when you get a REAL watch in house and you need any REAL photos...you know where I am!

BT
http://bradtrent.com