In the enthusiast watch space, the intersection of automotive culture and horology is a deeply romanticized and well-traveled road. Yet, every so often, an independent brand takes the wheel and steers us into entirely uncharted territory. Dutch microbrand De Rijke & Co. has made a name for itself by approaching the traditional “driver’s watch” from a fresh, wonderfully eccentric angle.
Now, continuing an eight-year creative partnership with acclaimed British automotive illustrator Guy Allen, the brand has unveiled its highly anticipated Series 2 Amalfi special editions. While the trio includes tributes to the desert and the mountains, it is the lush, adventurous spirit of the De Rijke & Co. X Guy Allen Amazon Watch that truly captured our attention.
A True Driver’s Case in Full Ceramic
At the core of the Amalfi design is a mechanical party trick that is as functional as it is conversation-starting. Conceived specifically for life behind the wheel, the watch features a unique two-piece case construction that allows the inner module—which houses the dial, crystal, and movement—to be rotated up to 90 degrees. This ensures the dial remains perfectly upright and legible while your hands remain securely at ten and two on the steering wheel.
For Series 2, De Rijke & Co. has taken a massive technical leap forward. Departing from traditional stainless steel or hybrid steel-and-ceramic builds, the brand invested the arduous time required to develop a fully ceramic two-piece case. For the Amazon edition, this 38.2mm case is rendered in a stealthy, highly scratch-resistant black ceramic. With an incredibly wearable 11mm thickness and paired with a durable sapphire crystal, this watch is built to be a dependable, lightweight companion on your most grueling off-grid road trips.
The Art of the Dial: Enamel and 3D Engraving
If the case acts as the rugged chassis, the dial is the breathtaking scenery out the window. Guy Allen’s distinct illustrative style is brought to life here through traditional métiers d’art techniques. The Amazon edition depicts a legendary Land Rover Defender tackling the untamed jungle, set against a vibrant, lush green backdrop. De Rijke & Co. executes this miniature masterpiece using Champlevé grand feu enamel on a solid 925 silver base. However, this new series takes the artistry a step further by introducing 3D engraving to the lower half of the dial.
Underneath a polished layer of transparent enamel, the deeply etched terrain creates an exquisite play of light and a profound sense of three-dimensional depth. Crafted entirely in-house and finished by a master enameler in the UK, it represents a staggering level of artisanal detail for an independent release.
Reliable Mechanics for the Road Ahead
A dependable expedition requires a trusted workhorse under the hood. Powering the Amazon is a high-grade execution of the reliable Swiss-made Sellita SW300 automatic movement. Visible beneath a highly detailed, hand-finished engraved caseback, this slim caliber beats at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz). It features 25 jewels, a stop-second device for precise time setting, and a self-winding mechanism with a ball bearing.
Secured to the wrist via a comfortable, quick-release rubber strap with an 18mm lug width, the watch is also water-resistant to 50 meters—providing plenty of security if you get caught in a sudden downpour in the rainforest.
Priced at €4,595 (excluding VAT, tariffs, and duties), the De Rijke & Co. X Guy Allen Amazon Watch represents remarkable value when you factor in the bespoke full-ceramic rotating case and the breathtaking hand-crafted enamel dial. Strictly limited to just 50 numbered pieces worldwide, it is a rare, highly tactile piece of wearable art for the discerning gearhead.
