In the fast-paced world of horology, where innovation and tradition often collide,
Bamford London, the disruptive British watch company, has once again pushed the boundaries with the release of the Neprosolar. This isn't just another timepiece; it's a resurrection of a forgotten dream from the 1970s, a testament to the enduring spirit of innovation and a nod to the retro-futuristic aesthetics that continue to captivate watch enthusiasts today.
The story of the Neprosolar begins in the heart of Switzerland, where Nepro, a pioneer in digital quartz devices, was making waves in the watch industry. In the early 1970s, Nepro unveiled the world's smallest electronic alarm clock, a marvel of miniaturization housed in a tiny pillbox. However, their most ambitious project was yet to come.
Courtesy of Bamford
At the Basel watch fair in 1976, Nepro introduced the Neprosolar, a revolutionary concept watch powered by solar cells. This avant-garde timepiece promised to harness the power of light, transforming it into energy to drive its digital display. The design was a bold departure from the norm, with its angular case, tapered bracelet, and a futuristic LED display that scrolled through hours, minutes, seconds, and even the date.
Unfortunately, the technology of the era wasn't quite ready to bring the Neprosolar to life. The concept remained just that – a concept – relegated to the archives of watchmaking history. But like a phoenix rising from the ashes, the Neprosolar has been given a new lease on life thanks to the vision and expertise of Bamford London.
Collaborating with Nepro, Bamford London has painstakingly recreated the Neprosolar, staying true to the original design while incorporating cutting-edge technology. The result is a timepiece that seamlessly blends the retro charm of the 1970s with the modern sensibilities of today. The watch retains the angular case and tapered bracelet, now crafted from stainless steel and finished in sleek black PVD.
Courtesy of Bamford
But the real magic lies in the display. The original LED has been replaced with a crisp, high-resolution OLED screen, illuminating the time, date, and power reserve with a vibrant blue glow. Two activators, discreetly integrated into the case, control the display and settings, offering a user-friendly experience that belies the watch's technological complexity.
The Neprosolar's solar-powered heart is another testament to its innovative spirit. The watch harnesses the sun's energy to charge its rechargeable battery, offering a power reserve that can last anywhere from 10 hours to three years, depending on usage. This eco-conscious approach to watchmaking aligns perfectly with the growing demand for sustainable luxury.
Bamford London's founder, George Bamford, is no stranger to pushing the boundaries of watch design. His passion for horology and his eye for detail are evident in every aspect of the Neprosolar. From the carefully considered proportions of the case to the ergonomic design of the bracelet, the watch exudes a sense of quality and craftsmanship that is sure to appeal to discerning collectors.
"Nepro is one of the unsung heroes of the watch industry," says Bamford. "When I first saw pictures of that 1970s concept watch, I was captivated by its bold, retro-futuristic design. It was a watch that was both familiar and completely alien at the same time. I knew we had to bring it back to life."
Courtesy of Bamford
At its core, the Neprosolar is a testament to the fusion of cutting-edge technology and retro-inspired aesthetics. The 36.2mm steel case, meticulously coated in black PVD, not only exudes a sense of understated luxury but also pays homage to the angular, asymmetrical design of the original 1970s concept. The case back, also finished in black PVD, adds a touch of mystery to the watch, inviting you to ponder the intricate workings hidden within.
The multi-link bracelet, seamlessly integrated into the case, echoes the watch's retro-futuristic spirit. Crafted from black-PVD-coated stainless steel, it drapes comfortably around the wrist, offering both style and substance. The bracelet's unique design, with its tapering links, not only complements the watch's overall aesthetic but also ensures a secure and comfortable fit.
Beneath the mineral crystal glass lies the Neprosolar's true technological marvel: the OLED display. Unlike traditional LCD screens, the OLED display boasts superior contrast and vibrancy, rendering the time, date, and power reserve with exceptional clarity. The blue luminescence of the display adds a touch of modern flair to the watch's retro design, creating a visual symphony that is both captivating and informative.
Courtesy of Bamford
The Neprosolar's functionality extends beyond mere timekeeping. With a simple touch of the right activator, the display comes to life, revealing a wealth of information. The time can be displayed in either 12 or 24-hour mode, with a flashing colon indicating the seconds. A second touch reveals the day and month, while a third touch displays the power reserve, indicated by a series of four dots that decrease as the battery discharges.
But the Neprosolar's ingenuity doesn't stop there. The display can be programmed to remain lit for up to 30 minutes, or until the battery is fully discharged, by pressing the right activator for 10 seconds. This feature, along with the ability to set the watch to automatically turn off the display after four seconds, offers a level of customization that is rare in digital watches.
The Neprosolar's solar-powered movement is another testament to its technological prowess. The watch harnesses the sun's energy to charge its rechargeable battery, eliminating the need for frequent battery replacements. With a full solar recharge taking approximately 20 hours, the Neprosolar offers a sustainable and convenient alternative to traditional battery-powered watches.
Bamford London's attention to detail extends beyond the watch itself. The Neprosolar arrives in a black anodized aluminum cylinder that releases from the top like a top-secret canister. This playful presentation not only adds to the watch's retro-futuristic charm but also serves as a reminder of the Neprosolar's intriguing backstory.
Courtesy of Bamford
For those eager to own a piece of horological history, the Bamford London Neprosolar is available for pre-order exclusively at bamfordlondon.com. Priced at £699, this limited-edition timepiece offers a unique blend of retro aesthetics, cutting-edge technology, and sustainable design. Deliveries are scheduled for October 2024, and buyers will receive regular updates on the watch's production progress.
The Bamford London Neprosolar is more than just a watch; it's a conversation starter, a collector's item, and a testament to the enduring power of innovation. It's a watch that will not only tell time but also tell a story – a story of a forgotten dream brought back to life, of a collaboration between two visionary companies, and of a timepiece that defies categorization.