Nezumi Introduces A Stylishly Updated Version Of Its Baleine Dive Watch
Stockholm-based brand Nezumi is one I always keep a close eye on, and it has established quite a reputation for creating outstanding, affordable watches with retro style and vibrant colors. Nezumi truly understands the important role color plays in making watches stand out. One of the most popular models in the brand’s catalog is the Baleine dive watch, which debuted back in 2017. Now, Nezumi is releasing an updated version that’s a significant step up from the previous one, and fans are going to love it.
I appreciate that David Campo, Nezumi’s founder and designer, has taken the time to reflect on the brand’s collection and explore what he can improve. We already saw a series of improved Nezumi Aviera GMT models a few months ago. With them, the brand introduced an optimized case with a new bezel and a slightly different shape for the crystal. For the new Baleine, Campo took a similar path. But this time, he didn’t stop at just updating the design of the case and the crystal. The old Baleine was ready for a complete design overhaul without losing its recognizable character.
The story of the new Nezumi Baleine dive watch
If there is one thing that stands out to me, it’s the great versatility that we have seen from Nezumi when it comes to the Baleine. The model that immediately comes to mind is the limited edition that I wrote about last year. I loved what Campo did with the colors for that model. The vibrant, soft tones used for the dial are not common among watches from other brands. Especially when paired with the turquoise rubber strap, the watch looked outstanding.
Last year’s colorful Nezumi Baleine LE
But that special edition was, of course, a step away from the regular blue and black models. I also had the pleasure of reviewing the black Baleine as part of the Nezumi Adventure Trio. Essentially, this includes the three regular versions of the Terrain field watch, Baleine diver, and Aviera GMT.
The previous-generation Nezumi Baleine
For the new version of the Baleine, Nezumi updated and significantly improved the regular black-dial model. If you are familiar with the original Baleine, you will immediately notice some differences. But there is more to it than immediately meets the eye. Let’s go over the details of the watch.
The specs of the new Nezumi Baleine
It all starts with a new brushed stainless steel case, which has a 40mm diameter and features a slimmed-down 39mm bezel. We have also seen this change for the Aveira GMT. Making the bezel smaller than the case helps keep the design very compact, which I love. Campo also managed to slim down the new version by a full millimeter, giving it a nice and slender 12.1mm profile, while keeping the 47mm lug-to-lug length. Just reading the dimensions and seeing the watch makes me very curious to try the watch on my wrist.
The unidirectional 120-click bezel features pronounced knurling, ensuring a secure grip and easy rotation. Another upgrade is the new matte black ceramic bezel insert with a luminous 60-minute dive scale. It makes reading the bezel markings possible in the dark if you’re planning any late-night adventures.
Protected by the double-domed sapphire crystal is a textured matte black layered dial. While the style of the markings and numerals has stayed the same, the dial has been updated. The center is textured, while the chapter ring is stepped and smooth. Furthermore, the dial now features applied, brushed numerals and indexes filled with Grade X1 Super-LumiNova filling. Campo also introduced a redesigned handset. The new stainless steel hands match the finishing of the hour markers and, of course, contain the same Super-LumiNova. I love the look of the matte black bezel and dial combined with the warm tone of the lume. It looks terrific.
The Miyota 9039 caliber
To power the updated Baleine, Campo stuck to the trusty Miyota 9039. This automatic movement operates at 28,800 vibrations per hour, has 24 jewels, and offers a 42-hour power reserve. The caliber is known to be very reliable and has a stated accuracy of -10/+30 seconds per day. While that range is not impressive, we know that the actual accuracy is often better than the brand indicates.
Final thoughts on the Nezumi Baleine dive watch
Thanks to the smart updates, the Nezumi Baleine dive watch is now cooler than ever. Not only did Campo maintain the warm and charming style of the previous versions, but he also impressively upgraded the new one. The new Baleine comes on a textured black rubber strap with a pin buckle and will cost €630. If you want it on a stainless steel five-row bracelet, the price is just €695. These prices are excluding VAT and other taxes. Along with the new regular model, Nezumi will also release a special first-edition Baleine in tonal gray on December 1st. This will be available in a run of 300 pieces and, pleasingly, cost the same as the regular edition.
Knowing that all the watches are assembled, tested, and subjected to quality control in Germany is another small seal of approval that instills confidence. It makes me curious to learn more about the updated Nezumi Baleine through a hands-on review. Let’s hope we can make that happen soon so that I can tell you more about this improved version of the brand’s popular dive watch. In the meantime, head on over to the Nezumi’s website to find out more about the latest Baleine.
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