M
MARITIME
DETROIT DIVER
LOOKING
FINE, WET
OR DRY
Founded in 2013 by Amy & Patrick Ayoub, the designer
driven Detroit watch brand (no relation to that “other” Detroit
based brand) is celebrating their 6th anniversary this year
with their own take on the diver’s type.
From the first glance you can tell that the Detroit Diver is not
your typical tool watch vying for the toughest timepiece on the block
award. Rather, the Detroit take on the type is much more a “gentle-
man’s diver” if you will. Yes, it has a 30atm rating for its 43 mm
stainless steel housing, and yes it even integrates a helium release
valve into the case. But while this inspired design may occasionally
take a dip in the pool, I’m not sure how many divers will want to take
it into harm’s way on an actual dive.
Upon closer inspection the deft touch of experienced design-
ers reveals itself. Not by a radical slap in the face with a crass
in-your-face design mind you, but rather in the subtle cues that come
together to create the whole. Yes, this is technically a diver type, but
the deeper appeal of this watch is in the refinement and attention
to detail. A touch of color here, elegantly beveled bezels there, and
an overarching allusion to the history of the Detroit region come
together in what might be best called a “dress diver” that will look as
good under a cuff as under water.
Blue or black uni-directional ceramic bezels encompass sap-
phire crystals and nicely match the Superluminova enhanced mark-
ers and hands. Inside the 43mm SS case beats a Swiss Made ETA
2892A2, or the 2893-2 for the GMT version and you can choose
from an extendable stainless steel bracelet, or a woven sailcloth
strap for a more casual look.
Learn more or pre-order your own “Detroit 1701 Pontchartrain
Great Lakes Edition Diver” at www.detroitwatchco.com. Prices
range from $1,400-$1,600 for these bathing beauties.
88 | AboutTime Magazine