Schofield Watch Company has been a name synonymous with luxury field watches for the past 15 years. Their designs have always been inspired by the rugged, functional timepieces used by military personnel and explorers around the world. However, their latest release, The Light One, marks a significant departure from their previous offerings. This new watch is not only more affordable than its predecessors, but it also boasts a number of unique features that are sure to appeal to watch collectors and enthusiasts alike.
The Light One draws its inspiration from the lighthouses that have long been a source of fascination for
Schofield founder Giles Ellis. These structures represent austerity, endurance, and precision, all of which are qualities that are embodied in the new watch. The case is made from marine-grade stainless steel and is topped with a box sapphire crystal that is both scratch-resistant and shatterproof. The dial is clean and uncluttered, with large, easy-to-read numerals and a 24-hour GMT hand. The watch is powered by a reliable
Seiko NH34A automatic movement, which is known for its accuracy and durability.
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Despite its rugged construction, The Light One is also a remarkably comfortable and stylish watch to wear. The 40mm case size is perfect for most wrists, and the watch comes with two different straps: a grey leather strap and a black rubber strap. Both straps are water-resistant and durable, making them ideal for everyday wear.
The Light One has a number of features that set it apart from other field watches on the market. The first is the aforementioned 24-hour GMT hand. This complication allows you to track the time in two different time zones, which is a useful feature for frequent travelers. The second unique feature is the watch's case back. The case back is made from mineral crystal and features a printed image of a lighthouse, the horizon, and some stars. This artwork is not only visually appealing, but it also serves as a reminder of the watch's inspiration.
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The Light One is a limited edition watch, with only 150 pieces being produced. This makes it a highly collectible item, and it is sure to be snapped up by watch enthusiasts quickly. The watch is priced at £2,190, which is more affordable than many other luxury field watches on the market.
The SCHOFIELD The Light One is a welcome addition to the world of field watches. It is a well-made, stylish, and versatile watch that is sure to appeal to a wide range of people. With its unique features and limited-edition status, The Light One is a watch that is sure to become a collector's item.
The 40mm case of The Light One strikes a delicate balance. It's neither overly bulky like some rugged field watches nor excessively refined. The shape is clean and purposeful. Intriguingly, a vertically brushed bezel crowns the case, adding a touch of visual playfulness to the otherwise utilitarian design. It's the surrounding metal that's especially clever. The curves from the bezel sweep dramatically towards the lugs, creating a sense of fluidity that many field watches lack.
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This focus on form isn't just aesthetic – the rebated strap design provides a snug, comfortable fit on various wrist sizes. The crown, positioned at 4 o'clock, is flanked by stylized "wheel arches" machined into the case itself – a subtle nod to its off-road capable spirit.
The Light One comes in two options: bare stainless steel or a gunmetal gray PVD coating. Both are treated with an anti-fingerprint coating. If you're like me and smudges on watch cases are the bane of your existence, this detail is a major plus.
True to the field watch ethos, the dial is a haven of clarity. All hours are marked, with a stylized slash-0 at 12 o'clock adding a dash of personality. The number track is raised, a recurring theme in Schofield designs, and precisely delineated from the stepped central dial. Inner section markings are subdued, cleverly avoiding any distraction from the primary task of timekeeping.
The handset of The Light One is a small marvel in itself. Impeccably lacquered for a 3D appearance, the hour and minute hands generously carry Super-LumiNova C3 for low-light visibility. Interestingly, the GMT hand color is matched to the dial behind it, further emphasizing its secondary but useful role. One quirk worth highlighting – the GMT hand goes around the dial once every 24 hours, with only a 12-hour marking. It takes a beat to get used to, but once you've grasped the GMT concept here, it becomes second nature.
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Powering The Light One is the Seiko NH34A, a workhorse automatic movement. It's a solid, no-nonsense caliber known for accuracy and robustness. 44 hours of power reserve might not be groundbreaking, but it's plenty for a reliable everyday wearer like this.
Turning the watch over reveals its playful side. The mineral crystal case back isn't just transparent – a printed artwork of a lighthouse, horizon, and twinkling stars resides on its underside. The image is meticulously aligned 12-6, offering a visual treat when the light catches those miniature stars. While devoid of movement viewing, this touch of whimsy is a reminder of the Light's coastal inspiration.
The Light One arrives with two strap choices: a lined India rubber strap and an off-gray leather option. Both are high-quality, with the rubber naturally suited for more adventurous outings. The 22mm lug width is more common than Schofield's usual 24mm, making strap swaps easier if customization is your thing. What's less typical is the accompanying buckle. It's the elaborate Obscura buckle usually found on the brand's pricier models, lending an air of sophistication to this otherwise rugged package.
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With The Light One, the brand demonstrates that a move towards greater accessibility doesn't mean sacrificing originality. Sure, the smaller case and reliable Seiko movement might signal a practical shift, but the delightful idiosyncrasies that make a Schofield are still very much present. The Light is a new pathway for the brand rather than a departure.
If you're a watch enthusiast craving something with character, built with care, and possessing a sprinkle of unique charm, the SCHOFIELD The Light One definitely deserves your attention.
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SCHOFIELD Watch Company