I’m a certified watch nut. If you’re reading this I’m guessing you are as well. I’m also a huge supporter of the men and women fighting for our freedoms in this country. So, when a press release came into the tips line talking about a new watch wholly conceived with the idea of supporting our brave troops, I was immediately intrigued.
Founder Brent Durban started Valhalla Watch Company after a close friend and veteran took his own life as a result of post-traumatic stress disorder. These types of stories should deeply affect us all, regardless of race, religion, gender, or political leanings. As a watch lover Brent is endeavoring to combine his passion for the hobby with his passion for helping those willing to put their lives on the line to protect the rest of us.
Valhalla’s first offering is designed to remind the wearer of our military forces, and succeed in this effort it does. First, and something rarely seen in this modern age, using a Rhonda 515.24H quartz movement the Valhalla dial displays the time in true 24-hour format. This means that the hour hand takes a full 24 hours to make one full trip around the dial, rather than the now-standard two revolutions utilized to display time in the familiar 12-hour format. If you’re familiar with the classic Glycine Airman, you’ll understand this concept. The GMT and date functionality have been removed from the Valhalla in order to offer the cleanest dial possible. Yes, this means that the crown will have a “phantom” first position. While this is an issue for some, in this case I think it was the right move.
Second, the “22” on the dial is displayed in red. This represents the VA-estimated 22 veterans who take their own lives every day in this country. Following along on this theme, 22% of the proceeds from the sale of each watch will be donated to organizations dedicated to the mental health and well being of our veterans.
The case is sporting a clean, circular brushed bezel with a 45 degree polished and beveled edge while the case back is held in place by six screws. The H-link bracelet looks to have proprietary end links. If I’m honest I’d prefer to see standard width lugs as this watch is just screaming for a nice military-esque NATO strap. As long as the bracelet is of a high quality finish though, this shouldn’t be a big issue.
The dial will be offered in both black and blue colors, while the buyer will have a choice of either stainless steel or gold plated treatments on the case and bracelet. Each owner will also have the option of a personal engraving on the case back. The prototypes display an American flag along with a tribute to Brent’s fallen friend.
The Valhalla Kickstarter campaign will begin on October 10, 2018, ending appropriately enough on Veteran’s Day, November 11th. Early bird pricing starts at $130. If you like unique watches and you enjoy the freedoms afforded to every American citizen I honestly can’t think of a better way for you to show your support for our brave troops. Watch this space for a full hands-on review soon. You can register to be notified of the campaign at valhallawatches.com.
Watch Specifications From Valhalla:
- Case Diameter: 40mm, 47mm lug-to-lug
- Thickness: 9.7mm
- Case & Clasp Material: 316 Stainless Steel
- Dial Material: Bronze
- Total Weight: 143.5g
- Strap Width: 22
- Movement: Ronda 515 (24)
- Water Resistant: 50m
- Crystal Material: Sapphire Glass
