If you’re a regular reader of Square Mile's Gateway column, you’ll know that the value portion of the watch market has never been stronger.
Whether you’re looking for a dutiful recreation of an elegant vintage timepiece or a fresh take on a chunky sports watch, your options are surprisingly broad. This month, my head has been turned by Hong Kong outfit Spinnaker. With a name that evokes sailing the ocean on a gleaming white yacht, it’s to be expected that this young watch brand takes to the seas for much of its inspiration; both on and beneath the waves. Its ten or so collections, starting at £250-odd and rising to no more than £500, are mostly action-ready divers perfect for the rough and tumble of the daily commute – or, indeed, the high seas if you’re so inclined.
The latest addition to its roster is the Spence 300 Automatic and, like many of its siblings, it balances the typical no-nonsense aesthetic of your average dive watch with a vibrant pop of colour. But Spinnaker does a grand job of ensuring style doesn’t come at the expense of substance. For the money, you’re getting a screw-down crown, Super-LumiNova on the hands and printed indices, a unidirectional bezel, a stainless steel bracelet, and most importantly water resistance to 300m – all features you’d expect on more premium dive watch offerings.
The Spinnaker Spence 300 Automatic with green bezel
The Spinnaker Spence is a professional diver
Inside, the workhouse Miyota 9039 automatic movement from Japan takes care of business with a 42-hour power reserve, while each Spence 300 comes with an additional hand-stitched leather strap and a rather charming EVA gift box perfect for taking it on the road or abroad.
Five colourways, including a particularly appealing ‘sea green’, take things perhaps a step further than your average Ronseal diver (doing what’s said on the tin etc). After a month or so on the wrist, I’ve grown especially fond of the graduated green effect on the grained dial. Paired with its rugged sensibilities and a price point that means you don’t fear the occasional scuff or ding, it’s become a near constant companion during the week, sailing right into my heart.
£500. For more information, see spinnaker-watches.com
