When it comes to the use of semi-precious materials on watch dials, it is something that we normally find confined to the higher-end brands. There are some exceptions to the rule, and one of the latest entrants is the Terre Swiss collection.
As soon as I saw that the Terre Swiss collection had a lapis lazuli dial, I was instantly intrigued. Ever since I discovered that lapis was a material that existed in this world, I?ve been a fan of it. Here, that dial takes all of the focus for the watch. The 40mm case has an extremely thin bezel, lumed pips are kept at the outer edge, and the handset even manages to stay out of the way of you admiring the dial.
So, up front, the Terre Swiss has a lovely display, though I do find that bright white date disc to be jarring. I?m glad the complication is there, I just would have preferred something darker toned so it can blend in a bit more. Speaking of complications – the watch is powered by the SW200 movement, so you?ve got a higher-end Swiss ticker here for you.
In terms of finishes, there are a few options for the Terre Swiss collection. You?ve got the Pioneer (with a gunmetal finish on the case and handset, and brown leather strap), the Two Select which swaps a mesh bracelet in for the leather, and then the Three Select which goes for gold-tone finishing on the case and handset, paired to a grey leather strap.
Given the dial material and movement used on the Terre Swiss watches, you?re probably steeling yourself for some sticker shock. Well, surprisingly, the super early bird pricing starts at $307 while the regular early bird is is just $337 which seems delightfully affordable for what?s on offer here. Sure, it?s a new brand and Kickstarter has it?s own caveat emptor built in, but that?s the age in which we live. That said, as of this writing, the campaign sets at 150% funded with things closing out on March 13, 2020 (delivery anticipated for July 2020). So, you?ve got a little time to make up your mind. Be sure to let us know what you think about this watch, and/or semi-precious dials in general! project page
Tech Specs from Terre Swiss
- Swiss movement SW200-1 Automatic
- Case size 40mm
- Domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating
- Semi-precious lapis lazuli dial
- 316L stainless steel case with brushed finish
- Water resistant to 5 ATM
- Interchangeable Italian full grain vegetable-tanned leather strap or Milano Mesh strap
Shot of an unrecognizable man dressing himself at home Photo taken in Hamburg, Germany
