30 ATMOS Blue Heron GMT Ceramica - 40mm

For many years Squale made waves with their dive watches since the 1950s. They produced watches that are unfitting for jewelry stores but rather those specialized in dive watches. The latter which we Gnomon Watches fits and belonging to the professional tool watch category, nailed our long-term partnership with the Swiss watch brand for many years, churning out classic novelties that based heavily on their archives. Therefore today we like to introduce to you our new exclusive diver from the Ref. 1545 collection.

Squale 30 ATMOS Blue Heron GMT Ceramica - 40mm

Upgraded from the Squale 20 ATMOS Blue Heron Ceramica, the GMT version is the latest model introduced by Squale. Made in Switzerland and powered by a Swiss Made ETA 2893-2/Sellita SW330-1 automatic movement with quickset GMT and date function. This is the first black and blue GMT model featuring a full blue ceramic bezel, introduced by Squale in their 60 years of watchmaking history. Based on a vintage diver model produced by Squale in the 1960s with the added feature of a GMT function. Tastefully done and equipped with the elegant semi-annular bracelet for that ultimate nostalgia.

The most appealing part of this watch is, of course, and as mentioned above- the colour combination here. It is challenging to make ceramic in vivid colors. As the Ceramica name implies, the bezel follows an actual GMT design theme. In this case, a solid blue hue inspired by the alluring blue and black feathers of the great blue heron (Ardea herodias), an Aves class of birds that are uncommonly found in North America. It is not only for aesthetic purposes, but the bezel insert colorway helps one to differentiate from its sober black dial. It looks evergreen very much for a GMT tool watch since the 1950s  Further having the ceramic nature of the bezel, it radiates a “wet” look, mimicking the effect of a bakelite bezel on vintage dive watches. In short, this is a watch you have to see it in person because the pictures do not do it any justice.

Applied hour markers

The ceramic bezel is first to cut into shape, and the 24-hour markers being carefully engraved by machines made, especially for this purpose. Next, the engraved ceramic bezel is superheated to 1500 degrees to harden and purify the ceramic. The engraved numerals on the hardened bezel are then carefully filled with Superluminova, allowing it to glow brightly in a dark environment. All the process results in not only will the color never fade, but the scratch-resistance properties of ceramic are so impressive that the bezel will retain its “brand new” looks for years to come.

The craftsmanship continues onto the dial. Making use this time the dial and hands design that is synonymous to Squale diver watches for centuries — making this instantly recognizable even from far. A real classic in the making, which we are sure collectors can agree with. The watchmakers at Squale decided to make it grandeur by applying hour markers and hands with generous SuperLuminova luminous, that glows brightly in the dark along with the bezel. Top it up with a flat sapphire crystal that sits flush with the case, coated with anti-reflective on the inside for better clarity.

Blue ceramic bezel with vintage lume

Since we mention the case, continuing on the characteristics of the 1545 series, the latest 30 ATMOS GMT  keep got better! Measuring at just 40mm and 12.5mm thick, the watch is the first 30 ATMOS that got sized down a little to fit most wrist. Featuring a svelte case, bolder design, and better water resistance, the 30 ATMOS has yet again set a new standard in the price segment. The short lugs to lugs length of 47mm are curved downwards for a very comfortable and wrap around fit.

Good looks are appreciated, but performance matters more; in terms of ease when in operations, not only is readability hight, one has a great pleasure to operate. The large screw-down crown, while featuring an engraved “Von Buren” emblem, it is effortless to grip, and it screws in and out without any sense of roughness in the screw threads contributed largely also by the larger than usual screw tube.

Entirely designed and hand finished in Switzerland the watch is satin brushed on the top, and high polished on the sides to a very high standard, again synonymous with Squale. The transitions between brushed and polished parts very well defined like every other Squale watch. The 120 clicks unidirectional rotating bezel clicks positively with little play for added confidence.

Superluminova applied on bezel, hour markers & hands

The Squale 30 ATMOS Blue Heron GMT Ceramica comes with a whole new stylish semi-annular bracelet that brings back the glamours of yesteryears, allowing one to indulge and luxuriate on this beauty. The bracelet is finished in a mixture of satin brushed and high polished in the middle, with solid end-links and screw-in links.

The Squale 30 ATMOS GMT is a beautiful and yet subtle watch compared to its  bi-tones brethrens. Many customers have been asking how we can offer this fantastic quality for a price like this. Well, the answer is straightforward; we value add for all our supporters and customers by having this exclusive model commissioned by Squale and have direct sales to our customers. We love the originality that goes into this particular model, especially the continuation of the Squale dial and hands design language. And not to mention the correct color on the two-tone ceramic bezel. If you are in the market for a well built well-priced watch and wants to stand out in the crowd, this is the watch to worth considering. Did we mention that the 30 ATMOS GMT continues to be scarce as they are only made in a small production every six months to maintain its exclusivity?

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