They are not inexpensive timepieces, with pre-sale prices starting at just under $1,000 for the 6,000 meter version (without VAT) and going up to $1,250 for the 8,000 meter watch; but considering the extreme depth rating, the titanium construction and the inclusion of an ETA 2824-2 (or an ETA 2892 in the 6,000 meter watch), it represents a good value. Just to put the depth ratings into perspective, a Rolex was strapped to the exterior of a deep water submersible to make it to Challenger Deep, the deepest reaches of the ocean at 10,908 meters.
The watch comes on a leather strap, but a titanium bracelet (in the matching corrosion resistant Grade 5 material) is an option for $262. The pre-sale closes at the end of April, around when these German-assembled watches are expected to be ready to ship. The prices listed here are for the pre-sale, and jump about $260 to $290 starting in May. h2o-watch.com
Watch Overview
- Brand & Model: H2O Kalmar 2
- Price: Pre-sale price of $996 for the 6,000 meter and $1,250 for the 8,000 meter (excluding VAT)
- Who we think it might be for: You like big watches.
- Would I buy one for myself based on what I’ve seen?: I like the line, but I have no need for these depth ratings.
- If I could make one design suggestion, it would be: I have nothing. It isn’t for me, but for what it is, they did a great job.
- What spoke to me the most about this watch: It is a great value in an attractive, bold diver.
Tech Specs from H20
- Movement: ETA 2824-2 (6,000 meter) or ETA 2892 (optional in 6,000 meter, standard in 8,000 meter)
- Functions: Uni-directional bezel, helium escape valve, ceramic bezel insert
- Case: Grade 5 titanium
- Glass: Sapphire
- Water resistance: 6,000 or 8,000 meters
- Lug width: 24mm
- Straps: 5mm thick black calfskin strap with white contrast stitching, optional 5mm thick Grade 5 Titanium bracelet with hex screws and micro-adjustment clasp.
- Diameter: 42mm/44mm for bezel
- Case Height: 16.5 or 21.6 mm