Locman updates the Montecristo collection, offering a new professional diver's version that is water-resistant to an impressive 500 metres.
The Montecristo collection of Locmanwhich takes its name from the well-known island that has been an uninhabited nature reserve for centuries, was born in the late 1990s. The first model launched, the Montecristo Automatic, had a case made of 18-carat gold and heather briar. Over the years, the collection has evolved, using more 'traditional' materials, adding functions such as a chronograph and also being offered in ladies' versions.
Recently, Locman launched the new Montecristo 500 Metri, with a 43 mm steel case combined with a screw-down titanium back. The watch has all the distinctive features of a professional diver, i.e. unidirectional rotating bezel with knurled edge, highly readable dial with geometric indices and SuperLuminova luminescent baton hands (the minute hand has a different colour perimeter to the hour hand) and water resistance guaranteed up to 50 atmospheres.
The markers on the bezel from 1 to 15 are also luminescent, while the date window opens at 3 o'clock. The glass protecting the dial is of the anti-reflective sapphire type. In addition, the watch is equipped with an automatic helium gas escape valve.
Locman Montecristo 500 Metres, professional diver
Like all divers' watches that can be used for professional purposes, the Montecristo 500 Metre is equipped with a helium gas escape valve.
In addition to a screw-locked crown and back, the Montecristo 5oo Metri is also equipped with a helium valve, positioned at 8 o'clock. Its function is to release excess pressure during decompressions in the hyperbaric chamber. When diving in deep water, divers have to breathe a mixture of helium and oxygen in order to avoid the effects of nitrogen narcosis, a condition that can cause discomfort and disorientation at great depths. As helium molecules are extremely small, they can penetrate into the case through the seals of the watch, impairing its proper functioning. This valve therefore allows the trapped helium to escape.
The Locman Montecristo 500 Metre is driven by the Sellita SW200 calibre (28,800 vibrations per hour, 38-hour power reserve), Swiss Made automatic mechanical movement. The watch is available in different configurations, with either a steel bracelet or a black silicone strap. They are also present in the catalogue two versions with a blue or black PVD-treated case, with silicone strap in the same colour shade.
Priceswith steel case and silicon strap, €1,498; with blue or black PVD-coated steel case and silicon strap, €1,590; with steel case and bracelet, €1,690.
