Building on the triumph of their inaugural release, the Frømand, in 2022, the independent watchmaker Atelier Holgur is introducing two more exceptionally refined dive watch references. Drawing inspiration from the diverse marine life adored by scuba enthusiasts worldwide, these latest models are available with a choice of two dial options: ‘Fire Coral’ and ‘Ocean Emerald.’ In keeping with the brand’s core philosophy, these new offerings go beyond mere functionality, offering sumptuous materials and unparalleled elegance, setting them apart from traditional dive watches.
Taking a Unique Approach
When Matthew de Bakker and Asbjørn Simonen-Andersen, the founders of Atelier Holgur, embarked on creating their first dive watch, they sought to tread a different path. While the timepiece needed to meet the rigorous demands of professional divers, they were unwilling to sacrifice the luxurious details often associated with fine watchmaking. Furthermore, they recognized the increasing appeal of dive watches to enthusiasts who seldom venture into the depths of the ocean, affectionately known as ‘desk divers.’ This market segment is defined by individuals seeking more than a mere utilitarian tool.
Inspired by Marine Life
Both Matthew and Asbjørn share a deep love for scuba diving and have a profound appreciation for the marine life found in the world’s oceans. Their passion for conservation, especially marine life preservation, has always been paramount. During their diving experiences, they observed how dial colors behaved underwater.
The Dynamic Behavior of Colors
The electromagnetic spectrum encompasses colors with different wavelengths, ranging from red, orange, and yellow to green, blue, and violet. Different wavelengths emit varying levels of energy, causing colors to disappear as depth increases.
This natural phenomenon influenced Matthew and Asbjørn’s choice of two dial colors that behave distinctly beneath the water. Fire Coral red, a vibrant hue on the surface, possesses a long wavelength, transitioning from red to black as the wearer dives deeper. On the other hand, Ocean Emerald green has a shorter wavelength, remaining visible underwater while red hues have already turned to black.
Atelier Holgur has endowed both of these new references with a fumée dial, allowing the dominant hue, Fire Coral or Ocean Emerald, to gradually darken toward the dial’s periphery, ultimately becoming a deep and mysterious shade of black as the watches venture into deeper waters.
Elegance Meets Utility
Rest assured, the hands, indexes, and count-up scale, generously treated with Super-LumiNova®, remain visible even in the depths of the ocean. The main dial surface, adorned with a sunburst finish, provides a more formal appearance compared to the snailing on the brand’s inaugural model. The small seconds display retains its concentric circle pattern. The result is a timepiece that exudes sophistication and style, suitable for more formal occasions.
Familiar Features with a Twist
The Edition Fumée maintains the practicality of the inaugural model, with a maximum water resistance of 300 meters, a unidirectional dive bezel, and unmatched legibility. However, the new dials offer a slightly different, more refined character.
The Edition Fumée models continue to feature the highly acclaimed skeletonized movement from the inaugural watch, the Schwarz-Etienne ASE 200 for Atelier Holgur. Equipped with a micro-rotor and exquisite finishing, this caliber sets a new standard for dive watches. To appeal to purists, Atelier Holgur equips these new variants with an exhibition caseback, showcasing the beautifully crafted movement.
The Grade 5 Titanium case, measuring 40mm in diameter, makes a return appearance, with polished and microblasted finishing, showcasing the brand’s dedication to quality.
Like the 2022 Frømand, the Edition Fumée features an integrated strap bar for secure wear on land or underwater. Atelier Holgur’s strap system allows for easy strap changes without the need for tools. The Edition Fumée comes with two straps, both made from recycled ocean plastic by tide ocean material®. One strap features a Hook & Loop fastener and a pin system, allowing the wearer to view the movement on the reverse side. The second strap boasts a single-loop design with a dash of color to match the dial.
Practicality and Style, Hand in Hand
Atelier Holgur remains true to its belief that practicality and style are not mutually exclusive. The new models, available in two captivating dial shades, pay homage to the wonders of the world’s oceans, elegantly combining form and function while exuding an exceptional level of sophistication.
For more information, please visit Atelier-Holgur.com.
