DELMA Midland Automatic Purple

DELMA's latest offering, the Midland Automatic in a vibrant purple, is a fresh take on a classic design. This watch draws inspiration from DELMA's own archives, specifically a model from the 1980s bearing the same name. The Midland name itself holds significance for DELMA, being one of the original four brand names used by the company's founders back in the 1920s. This new iteration is not just a mere reproduction but a modern reinterpretation that skillfully blends vintage aesthetics with contemporary design elements. The bold geometric forms are reminiscent of the decade's style, while the new integrated bracelet seamlessly connects with the tonneau-shaped case, resulting in a sleek and cohesive look.



The case of the Delma Midland Automatic is constructed from durable stainless steel, ensuring longevity and resilience. It measures 40.5mm in diameter, with a height of 10.8mm, making it a substantial yet comfortable presence on the wrist. The lug-to-lug measurement of 47mm ensures a good fit for a variety of wrist sizes. With a weight of 165 grams, the watch feels solid and well-built, reflecting the quality of its construction. It boasts a water resistance rating of 10 ATM, equivalent to 100 meters or 330 feet, making it suitable for everyday wear and even light water activities.



The dial is a standout feature of this timepiece, presented in a striking purple hue that immediately catches the eye. The color is not a flat, uniform shade but is enriched by a pyramid guilloche pattern, adding depth and texture to the surface. This intricate pattern plays with light, creating a dynamic visual effect that changes depending on the viewing angle. The applied baton indexes and hour and minute hands are coated with Super-LumiNova BGW9, a luminescent material that glows brightly in low-light conditions, ensuring excellent legibility at all times. The seconds hand, with its red tip, provides a subtle yet noticeable contrast against the purple backdrop.



The bezel of the Midland Automatic is crafted from stainless steel and features a fluted design. This detail adds a touch of classic flair, contrasting nicely with the smooth, brushed finish of the case and bracelet. The fluted texture not only enhances the visual appeal but also provides a tactile element, inviting interaction. The sapphire crystal, treated with an anti-reflective coating, offers excellent scratch resistance and clarity, allowing an unobstructed view of the captivating dial.



Turning the watch over reveals an exhibition case back, also made of stainless steel, which showcases the heart of the timepiece: the automatic movement. The movement is based on the reliable Sellita SW 200-1 caliber, known for its robustness and accuracy. DELMA has customized the rotor with their own branding, adding a personalized touch to the mechanism. The movement operates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz) and boasts 26 jewels, contributing to its smooth and precise operation. It has a power reserve of approximately 41 hours, providing ample autonomy for daily wear.



The bracelet is another area where the Midland Automatic shines. The integrated design creates a seamless transition from the case to the bracelet, enhancing the overall aesthetic unity of the watch. The stainless steel links are meticulously crafted and finished, offering both comfort and durability. The butterfly deployment clasp, equipped with pushers, ensures a secure and easy-to-use closure mechanism. The combination of brushed and polished surfaces on the bracelet adds further visual interest and sophistication.



The watch's functionality is straightforward yet essential. It displays the hours, minutes, and seconds, along with a date complication. The date window is discreetly positioned, likely at the 3 o'clock position, maintaining the dial's balanced layout. The screw-down crown enhances the watch's water resistance and provides a secure setting mechanism for the time and date. This makes the watch ready for everyday wear.



DELMA's commitment to quality and craftsmanship is evident in every aspect of the Midland Automatic. The watch is not just a time-telling device but a statement piece that reflects the wearer's appreciation for fine watchmaking. The purple dial, in particular, is a bold choice that sets this model apart from more conventional offerings. It's a color that exudes confidence and individuality, making the watch a conversation starter.



DELMA has been producing high-quality watches since its inception, and the Midland collection is a testament to their enduring legacy. This is a collection that was named after one of the company's original brand names from the 1920s. The name "Midland" has a long and storied history within DELMA, being one of the four original brand names used by the company's founders in the 1920s. This latest version continues the tradition of offering well-crafted timepieces that are both stylish and functional. It's a watch that can be worn with pride, knowing that it represents a piece of horological history.



In terms of wearability, the Midland Automatic strikes a good balance between presence and comfort. Its size is substantial enough to be noticed but not so large as to be cumbersome. The integrated bracelet design ensures a snug fit on the wrist, while the smooth finish of the case and bracelet prevents any discomfort during prolonged wear. The watch's weight is well-distributed, making it feel balanced and secure.



The aesthetic appeal of the DELMA Midland Automatic lies in its harmonious blend of classic and modern design elements. The tonneau-shaped case, reminiscent of 1980s watch designs, is a nod to the past, while the integrated bracelet and contemporary dial design bring it firmly into the present. The fluted bezel adds a touch of refinement, contrasting with the sleek lines of the case and bracelet. The purple dial is undoubtedly the star of the show, offering a unique and captivating visual experience. The pyramid guilloche pattern adds depth and texture, while the Super-LumiNova-coated hands and indexes ensure legibility in all lighting conditions.



The technical specifications of the Midland Automatic are impressive, reflecting DELMA's commitment to producing high-quality, reliable timepieces. The Sellita SW 200-1 movement is a workhorse caliber known for its durability and accuracy. The 41-hour power reserve is more than sufficient for daily wear, and the 28,800 vibrations per hour ensure smooth and precise timekeeping. The 26 jewels in the movement help reduce friction and wear, contributing to its longevity. The exhibition case back allows watch enthusiasts to admire the intricate workings of the movement, while the customized DELMA rotor adds a personal touch.



The DELMA Midland Automatic Purple is currently available for purchase. The retail price is set at $1,350. This pricing positions the watch competitively within the market for luxury Swiss-made automatic timepieces, offering good value considering the quality of materials, craftsmanship, and the renowned Sellita movement. The watch can be purchased directly from DELMA's website or through authorized dealers, ensuring authenticity and access to after-sales service and support.



Case: Stainless steel, 40.5mm diameter, 10.8mm thickness, 47mm lug-to-lug. Screw-down crown, exhibition case back, water-resistant to 10 ATM (100 meters / 330 feet). Sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating. Stainless steel fluted bezel.

Movement: Automatic, Sellita SW 200-1, DELMA custom rotor, 41-hour power reserve. 26 jewels, 28,800 A/h frequency.

Dial: Purple with pyramid guilloche pattern. Applied indexes with Super-LumiNova BGW9, hour and minute hands with Super-LumiNova BGW9. Red-tipped seconds hand.

Strap: Integrated stainless steel bracelet, silver. Butterfly deployment clasp, stainless steel.

Price: $1,350

Reference Number: 41701.740.6.211

Notes: Based on a 1980s model with the same name. The Midland name was one of the original four brands used by DELMA's founders in the 1920s.