Going Bronze with the Fonderia Navale Veneto

I really dig the look of bronze watches, due to that tough, crude, and unrefined look. So many of them out there seem to be on the larger size and with my 6.5 inch wrist can look a bit too large for me. When I saw this Veneto bronze watch, made by Fonderia Navale, I was very interested. Fonderia Navale was founded by the same folks who founded Pontvs. You can see my review on their Pontvs Nessi here. The case on this one is only 42mm, and that’s just perfect for me. Fonderia Navale also make larger models but this model, the Veneto, is their smallest. The Veneto is named after Vittorio Veneto, which was the second member of the Littorio-class battleships that served in the Italian Regia Marina (Royal Navy) during World War II. The folks at Fonderia Navale were kind enough to send me out one of thier prototypes to review. Let check this thing out.

The Dial

The Fonderia Navale Veneto has a stylish look but is still completely utilitarian as it should be. Its not fancy and its sole job is to show you the time. Bold hands and hour markers are very legible in both in the light and in the darkness. The face itself is a grained enamel with a matte black finish. I really like the simple utilitarian look of the dial on this watch. Those large bold hands are mounted to the very reliable Seiko NH35 automatic movement.

The Case

Machined from a single block of tin phosphor bronze, this case is built to last. So what is tin phosphor bronze? From their site they define Phosphor bronze as an alloy of copper (90.5%Cu), tin and phosphorus. The tin increases the corrosion resistance and strength of the alloy. The phosphorus increases the wear resistance and stiffness of the alloy. These alloys are notable for their toughness, strength, low coefficient of friction, and fine grain. So its tough look is not just on the surface, but through and through.  This watch can take beating. The screw down crown is also made from this tin phosphor. Only thing not tin phosphor on this case the the screw down stainless steel case back. The case size at 42mm in diameter is, in my opinion, just right. Water resistance is very good at 200 meters. Case has a great vintage diver look to it and can handle the depths if needed.

The Strap

Since the Fonderia Navale Veneto has that vintage look going on, its nice to see a very distressed looking leather strap paired with it. This strap is thick and rough looking and just pairs perfectly with the watch. Right out of the box this band is very soft and comfortable to wear all day long. The large buckle is made from tin bronze and matches the case perfectly. This watch will also comes with a second zulu strap.

The Lume

This dial on this watch is heavily painted with C3 Swiss Super Luminova. The glow is fantastic and holds its glow for a long time. Checking the time in the dark is effortless with this lumed up dial.

Overall Impression

Fonderia Navale did a very good job on this watch. This watch combines both style and a utilitarian look. Construction is very solid and that tin phosfor bronse will take what ever you give it. Pre-order price on thie Fonderia Navale Veneto is a very reasonable $289.90USD. If you are interested go check the out at pontvswatch.com.

REVIEW SUMMARY

Tech Specs from Fonderia Navale