Got a note from John over at Bathyswatch.com. Looks like the Bathy’s Autos are a go. NB: They are only making 25 each of each dial color – black and silver – and each permutations of the case colors (silver, black, and UV). It will have a date window—not big date—and run the ETA 2824-2. Important info follows:
• There will be three PVD case colors: Silver, Black and the now-infamous Ultraviolet. These are ultra-hard titanium nitride coatings applied in a vacuum chamber that increase the surface hardness of the 316L steel cases 10-15X.
• There will be two dial colors: matte black and sunburst silver/grey, so six possible variations (25 of each type).
• The watches will be powered by an ETA 2824-2, 25-jewel mechanical movement running at 28,800 bph, with 38 hour power reserve. I will personally time and adjust each watch at the bench – I’m shooting for +/- 5 seconds per day.
• Cases are same dimensions as current quartz – 41.4mm diameter, 12.1 mm height.
• Black date dial with white numerals on all models.
• The all-new casebacks are massive and thick; made from solid titanium, and have the Hawaiian Island Chain en relief on the back.
• The watches are serially numbered and only 25 of each variation will be available at first – though this is not a strictly limited edition, it is unlikely that more than 250 of any one model will be produced.
• The watches will have custom Bathys solid titanium deployant clasps on the waterproof leather straps. The rubber Divers strap will remain as it is.
• All new custom screw down crown with a big ol’ Bathys “B” on it (which looks awesome, btw)
• Date window will be “traditional”, crowns will match case, and no rose gold PVD for now – again thanks for your help with this!
• One fun thing, is that since each watch comes with two straps, we will have 16 total variations (between the quartz and automatics) on our basic design – so a good chance for everyone to have their Bathys be unique.