Spinnaker has established itself by crafting timepieces that draw deep inspiration from the world’s oceans and the rich history of maritime exploration. Their watches are designed to evoke the spirit of adventure on the waves and beneath them. The latest from the brand, the Spinnaker Challenger Automatic Watch, continues this tradition, named after the Challenger Deep – the deepest known point in the Earth’s oceans.
This is a dive watch engineered not just to withstand the pressures of the deep, but to capture the very essence of those extreme environments in its design. It strikes a compelling balance, offering a robust profile capable of real-world exploration while possessing a classic elegance that transitions seamlessly to everyday wear.
At the heart of the Challenger Automatic lies its connection to the depths. The 3D-moulded dial is a standout feature, adding a striking dimensionality that is intended to evoke the rugged, complex textures found on the ocean floor itself. This visual depth is complemented by a deep-etched caseback, further reinforcing the watch’s maritime heritage and connection to the sea.
Drawing inspiration from the golden age of diving, Spinnaker’s design philosophy for the Challenger echoes the daring spirit of early underwater pioneers, blending vintage aesthetics with modern watchmaking standards to create a timepiece that celebrates both the timeless allure of the ocean and the adventurous souls who navigate it.
Encased in a substantial 42mm stainless steel body, the watch offers a refined yet robust wrist presence. With a case thickness of 19.0mm and a lug-to-lug measurement of 49.5mm, it feels purposeful and well-built on the wrist, weighing in at a solid 170g. The deep blue dial colour is a fitting choice, mirroring the hues of the ocean it’s inspired by. Legibility, crucial for any dive watch, is ensured by applied indices generously filled with Swiss Super Luminova, providing a strong glow in low light conditions.
Powering the Challenger is a reliable Japanese Automatic movement with 3 hands and a date display, offering the convenience of automatic winding. Essential dive watch features include a screw-down crown for water integrity and a durable sapphire lens protecting the dial from scratches and impacts, offering clear visibility.
Built to withstand the rigours of the ocean, the Challenger offers an impressive 30 ATM (300 meters) of water resistance. This capability provides total peace of mind, whether you’re actually diving, swimming, sailing, or simply lounging poolside. It’s a watch engineered to perform flawlessly under pressure. The watch comes fitted on a robust 20mm stainless steel bracelet, secured with a fold-over buckle featuring both a safety lock and push button for added security. Adding versatility, an extra blue rubber strap is also included, perfect for swapping out for more active pursuits or a different look.
Spinnaker’s commitment extends beyond just making watches; they partner with diverse groups globally, creating unique collections that resonate with natural conservation efforts and other meaningful causes, adding a layer of purpose to their creations. Offering this blend of deep-sea inspiration, robust construction, automatic movement, and versatile style with two strap options at a price point of £492, the Spinnaker Challenger Automatic Watch presents a compelling value proposition. It’s a well-executed dive watch that tells a story of craftsmanship, innovation, and a lifestyle intimately connected to the sea.
