In fine watchmaking, one small aesthetic change is often enough to send fans into a tizzy — but for good reason. Because the smallest shift in case dimensions or a simple wash of colour over a watch face is enough to transform a familiar and well-loved design into something fresh and exciting. Nomos Glashütte has delivered on both fronts with its Ahoi Neomatic 38 Date Sky.
Measuring a slim 9.9mm thick and a balanced 38.5mm wide, it fills the gap between the 40.3mm Ahoi Atlantic and the 36.3mm Ahoi Neomatic models in the current collection. This novelty gets its name from its pale blue dial that recalls breezy summer skies, and was actually launched alongside a golden-faced twin, the Ahoi Neomatic 38 Date Sand, earlier this year.
The Ahoi collection, introduced in 2013, was conceived with the intention of being an everyday accessory for the active individual. The “Ahoi” name points to the family’s impressive water resistance of 200m, a feat achieved through a screw-down crown protected by lateral guards, and a case back held in place by six screws. Despite these sporty concessions, the Ahoi line still boasts the same minimalist, Bauhaus-inspired design that has become synonymous with Nomos, and is finally in a size that will suit both men and women.
Said case is crafted in stainless steel, and its dial features black Arabic numerals that alternate with sleek stick markers. White luminescent rectangles dot the dial’s edge, while Super-LumiNova also coats the hour and minute hands. The recessed small seconds sub dial is located at 6 o’clock, with a sunny orange hand creating charming contrast. A subtle yet thoughtful touch is the red band encircling the crown, acting as a visual alert if the crown hasn’t been properly screwed down.
All in the details
At the heart of the watch is the Calibre DUW6101, an automatic movement with a 42-hour power reserve and date indication — notably moved to 3 o’clock, whereas the Ahoi Date Atlantic had it at 6 o’clock. Like the small seconds, the window has been coloured to match the dial for a more uniform presentation. First unveiled in 2018, the movement allows bidirectional date changes, and incorporates a safety feature that protects the date mechanism from accidental damage during manual adjustment. It also uses the Swing System, which is Nomos’ in-house escapement, balance spring, and balance.
If you choose the option with a sapphire crystal case back, you will be able to admire the calibre’s Glashutte ribbing, perlage, sunburst polish, and blued screws. A reference with a solid stainless steel case back is also available, with an overall thickness of 9.8mm instead.
Whether you intend to navigate the open seas or simply lounge in a cabana by the pool, the Ahoi Neomatic 38 Date Sky is a timeless companion that encapsulates style and substance.
The Ahoi Neomatic 38 Date Sky is available for purchase at all Watches of Switzerland Singapore boutiques.
