BY DHANANJAY PATHAK
It is not often that we come across truly unique and unconventional timepieces. But when we do it does bring a smile on our face and that seems to be the case with the new DeWitt – Academia slide. DeWitt is one of the few remaining completely independent watch brands out there and the watches that they produce are quite remarkable. The new Academia slide continues the brand’s innovative streak and features a unique sliding hour mechanism.
With a mix of several layers and finishes, the dial on the Academia Slide bears a complex structure and has been well executed for what it is. The dial can be broadly categorized into two separate sections. The outer section of the dial is highlighted by the major draw of this watch the ingenious hour mechanism. There are a total of 12 brass plates which have been marked with Arabic numerals that have a black body and a blue outline. Each brass plate in its initial position is inclined at an angle, which then slides down to lay in a flat position representing the current hour.
As time progresses the current hour plate starts slowing moving back to its inclined position whereas the upcoming hour plate starts moving downwards. This gives the dial a dynamic identity and makes it visually engaging showing a smooth passage of time. The inner section of the dial, on the contrary, is quite simple and straightforward. Rendered in black it has been finished with a prominent circular brushed pattern and features a centrally mounted minute and seconds hand. Towards the outer periphery is first a steel section which features 12 triangular cutouts followed by a minute track printed in blue.
The case on the DeWitt Academia Slide is made from titanium and has a diameter of 49.2mm. As the dimensions suggest this watch is certainly on the larger side which is apt keeping in mind what is being offered here. And even if the watch wears large it should rather wear comfortably because of the light titanium construction. The case is water resistant to 30 meters. Powering this watch is DeWitt’s automatic manufacture movement. It operates at a frequency of 28,800 bph and offers a power reserve of around 42 hours.
The Dewitt Academia Slide showcases that there are still plenty of unusual and creative ways of presenting the time. The watch would retail at a price of CHF 52,000.
Visit DeWitt here.
