Swiss watch brand Delma launch 200 piece limited edition Oceanmaster to commemorate 200 years since Antarctica's discovery.
The opportunity to sail to the majestic continent of Antarctica on the occasion of 200 years since its discovery provided astounding perspective into the power and fragility of Earth’s dynamic continents and creatures. Having a specially designed Delma timepiece to accompany me on the journey connected me to humanity’s incredible technical achievements while I experienced our effects and need to strive for a positive impact worldwide. - Nick Moloney, Ocean adventurer and DELMA Ambassador.
An authentic Swiss brand
DELMA’s dedication to sports timepieces began early in its 95-year history and has strengthened with modern technology and style. With the new Oceanmaster, Delma set out to create a timepiece that calls on nature for inspiration and supports its future. The Antarctica admirably joins the collection of sailing inspired timepieces to celebrate the discovery of one of the most unique places on earth.
Delma's ambassador Nick Moloney granted an undeniable opportunity to develop a new model that would assist him and his team on their expedition to Antarctica in February 2020, commemorating its discovery 200 years ago. While this was a poignant way to expand a partnership with long distance sailing, it is important to consider the context in which this journey was taking place. When Antarctica’s Princess Martha Coast was first discovered on 27 January 1820, the explorers were presented with a goliath ice shelf that reached out from the frozen continent. This year Nick and his team saw a new perspective of this fragile landscape as its impressive coastline constantly evolves. While the Southern Ocean surrounding Antarctica is one of the most pristine places on Earth, largely unaffected by humans, the nearly 10,000 diverse species that call this unique habitat home are in danger. The Antarctic Peninsula is one of the fastest warming places on earth. During the team’s expedition, the warmest temperature on the northern tip of Antarctica was recorded, over 20 °C.
Time for preservation
In order to give the project even greater significance, and support the future of this captivating place, Delma felt compelled to contribute to preservation efforts. We are proud to support the Antarctic and Southern Ocean Coalition (ASOC) in their mission to protect this great wilderness and the fascinating wildlife that relies on it by donating a portion of the proceeds of each Oceanmaster Antarctica.
Andreas Leibundgut, Delma's head of Marketing, confirmed that a fascination with and compassion for this incredible continent has been consciously reflected in the design of the new Oceanmaster. The cool blue dial is inspired by the colors of the ice as it meets the surrounding water while the raised texture represents the unique structure of the frozen landscape. The choice to create a limited edition of 200 pieces was derived from the milestone anniversary which it commemorates.
The special case back solidifies the watch’s connection to Antarctica with an engraved stainless steel representation of the continent. The Oceanmaster Antarctica is equipped with a tactical planner, points of sail indicators and a sturdy nautical bezel preparing it for any challenge. The stainless steel case with crown protection and the bracelet with safety clasp complete a timepiece for explorers and nature enthusiasts who value our diverse planet.
Technical details - Case & bezel
Stainless steel case with brushed and polished surfaces (diameter 44mm, thickness 13.8mm) with unidirectional rotating nautical bezel. Screw-down crown with crown protection. Stainless steel case back with special engraving of Antarctica in commemoration of its discovery.
The watch has a water resistance of 500m / 1650 ft. and also features a helium escape valve. The dial is protected by AR-coated sapphire crystal. The gradient blue dial features a unique ice pattern, points of sail indicators and tactical planner as well as large luminescent Super-LumiNova C3 indexes and hands. A reliable ETA 2824 automatic movement powers the central hour, minute, and seconds hands and date at 6 o'clock. Self-winding mechanism with ball bearing, frequency 28'800, 25 jewels, power reserve of 38 hours. Brushed and polished stainless steel bracelet, safety clasp with pushers.
The watch is available now in a limited edition of 200 pieces priced at 1290 Swiss Francs. You can explore the Oceanmaster Antarctica on Delma's website. If you would like to know more about the work of the Antarctic and Southern Ocean Coalition (ASOC) you can also visit their website here. Article main banner image credit Delma.