The Desk Diver: A Dive Watch Made for the Modern Machiavelli

Dive watches are undeniably one of the most popular styles in men's horology today. Yet, let's face it: while many of us sport these robust timepieces, few actually take them beneath the waves. Recognizing this delightful irony, Christopher Ward has teamed up with horological artist Romaric André, better known as Seconde/Seconde/, to create a watch that embraces our landlocked realities—the Desk Diver.

A Cheeky Spin on a Classic

The Desk Diver is a playful twist on the traditional dive watch. While it maintains the high-quality craftsmanship and durability we've come to expect from Christopher Ward, this timepiece is unapologetically optimized for the "office jungle" rather than the ocean's depths.

Based on the C65 Aquitaine model, the Desk Diver features a 41mm Light-catcher™ stainless steel case that's both sleek and comfortable, ensuring it sits snugly on your wrist throughout the workday. With a water resistance of up to 200 meters (humorously equated to 200 reams of paper), it's more than capable of handling accidental coffee spills or a sudden downpour during your commute.

Designed for the Modern Machiavelli

What truly sets the Desk Diver apart is its dial and bezel design. The sapphire bezel is cleverly divided into sections that serve as reminders for various office activities—from "power nap" to "treachery." Each segment is accompanied by a witty icon, making it not just a timekeeper but also a subtle nod to the daily ebb and flow of office life.

The dial itself sports a miniature Post-it note, a tribute to those who live and die by their to-do lists. And in a delightful touch, the date window displays a coin emoji on the first of every month—a playful reminder that payday has arrived.

As Romaric André puts it, “At work, you never know what’s going to happen next, making it the most unconquered landscape of all.” The Desk Diver is designed to help you navigate this unpredictable environment with style and a dash of humor.

Under the Hood

Powering the Desk Diver is the reliable Sellita SW200-1 automatic movement. This Swiss-made, self-winding movement boasts 26 jewels, a 38-hour power reserve, and an accuracy of +/-20 seconds per day. It's a workhorse movement that's as dependable as your morning cup of coffee.

The Complete Package

Understanding that style is as much about versatility as it is about aesthetics, Christopher Ward includes both a stainless steel Bader bracelet and a vibrant yellow rubber strap from Delugs. Whether you're aiming for a professional look in the boardroom or a more casual vibe for after-work drinks, the Desk Diver adapts seamlessly.

But the perks don't stop there. Each watch comes packaged with a set of branded office essentials: pencils, paper clips, Post-it notes, highlighters, and board pins. It's a playful addition that reinforces the watch's office-centric theme.

Limited Availability

Limited to just 500 pieces—because, as the brand jokes, "Dan in Accounts said we could only make 500"—the Desk Diver is available for pre-order now, with deliveries expected in early November 2024. Priced at $1,395.00, it's a unique offering that combines quality craftsmanship with a sense of fun that's often missing in the world of luxury watches.

Final Thoughts

The Desk Diver is more than just a watch; it's a conversation piece, a statement of self-awareness in a world that often takes itself too seriously. It's for those who understand that while they may not be diving into the ocean anytime soon, they're navigating an equally challenging environment every day—the modern workplace.

So, if you're looking to add a timepiece to your collection that's as practical as it is whimsical, the Desk Diver might just be the perfect fit. After all, who says you can't have a bit of fun while climbing the corporate ladder?