Seven decades have passed since the advent of the first dual-crown divers, timepieces that captured the imagination of adventurers and horological enthusiasts alike. Now, Nodus presents the Duality II, a watch that masterfully blends the nostalgic charm of vintage design with the cutting-edge precision of modern manufacturing.
Priced at an accessible $800 (approximately £639), the Duality II is a compelling proposition for those who appreciate a dive watch with a distinctive character and impressive capabilities.
Historically, dual-crown divers were often associated with compressor cases, a unique construction that allowed watches of yesteryear to achieve notable depths, typically around 200 meters. The Nodus Duality II pays homage to this heritage while leveraging contemporary techniques and an ethos of Efficient Design. The result is a refined and robust timepiece that boasts a remarkably slim profile and an impressive water resistance of 300 meters, surpassing the capabilities of its vintage predecessors. This achievement underscores Nodus’ commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible within this classic design framework.
A key element contributing to the Duality II’s sleek profile and vintage aesthetic is its dramatic box sapphire crystal. Reminiscent of the bubble domes found on iconic watches of the past, this crystal not only enhances the watch’s visual appeal but also allows for an efficient use of internal space, contributing to its relatively slender 11.5mm thickness. Furthermore, the sapphire crystal offers superior scratch resistance, ensuring the watch’s enduring legibility and pristine appearance.
Functionality is paramount in a dive watch, and the Duality II delivers with its bi-directional internal rotating bezel. Operated by a fully-decoupling screw-down crown located at the two o’clock position, this internal bezel adds a layer of practicality without compromising the watch’s durability or clean lines. The knurled texture of the crown provides excellent grip, allowing for precise and confident manipulation of the bezel, essential for timing dives or other events.
The dial of the Duality II showcases a refined aesthetic with applied indices featuring high-polished facets. These meticulously crafted indices catch and reflect light beautifully, imparting a dynamic and elegant character to the watch face. This represents an evolution from the first Duality model, which featured a “hybrid” dial construction. The decision to move to higher-grade applied indices with exaggerated facets elevates the level of dynamism and sophistication, creating a captivating interplay of light and shadow.
Crafted from 316L surgical-grade stainless steel, the Duality II’s case measures 40mm in width, with a lug-to-lug distance of 48mm and a lug width of 20mm, striking a harmonious balance on the wrist. Both crowns are screw-down, further contributing to the watch’s robust water resistance. The lume on the dial and hands is Swiss Super-LumiNova® BGW9 Grade A, ensuring exceptional visibility in low-light conditions.
The watch is paired with a 20mm-16mm tapered stainless steel bracelet featuring Nodus’ proprietary NodeX™ clasp, which offers both security and comfort. Quick-release spring bars on the bracelet allow for easy strap changes, providing versatility for different occasions and personal preferences.
Powering the Nodus Duality II is the reliable Miyota Cal.9015 Premium Automatic movement, a testament to Japanese engineering. This 24-jewel movement operates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour and offers a power reserve of 41 hours. Notably, each movement is regulated in-house by Nodus to an accuracy of +/- 8 seconds per day, demonstrating their commitment to precision and quality control.
Designed and assembled in Los Angeles, the Nodus Duality II embodies a compelling fusion of vintage inspiration, modern engineering, and meticulous attention to detail, making it an exceptional choice for watch enthusiasts seeking a distinctive and capable timepiece with a story to tell.
