Spinnaker Croft 39 The Dial Artist

The watch world is no stranger to collaborations, but every now and then, a partnership emerges that transcends the ordinary, setting a new benchmark for creativity and craftsmanship. The Spinnaker x The Dial Artist Croft 39 is one such collaboration, a timepiece that encapsulates the awe-inspiring beauty of the Aurora Borealis and the bioluminescent wonders of the deep sea. This isn’t merely a watch, it’s a wearable testament to the uncharted territories of our planet and the cosmos, meticulously crafted to ignite the spirit of exploration in every wearer.



Spinnaker, a brand synonymous with maritime-inspired timepieces, has always pushed the boundaries of design and innovation. Their watches are not just tools for measuring time, but also tributes to the intrepid explorers who braved the high seas. The Croft collection, in particular, stands as a testament to Spinnaker's commitment to creating watches that are both functional and aesthetically captivating. Named after the legendary British navigator, Sir Francis Chichester, who circumnavigated the globe solo in his yacht Gipsy Moth IV, the Croft series embodies the spirit of adventure and discovery.



For this exceptional collaboration, Spinnaker has joined forces with Chris Alexander, the visionary artist behind The Dial Artist. Alexander’s work, celebrated for its vibrant hues and dynamic compositions, breathes new life into the traditional craft of watchmaking. His dials are not just surfaces for telling time; they are miniature canvases that tell stories, evoke emotions, and spark conversations. With a background in street art, pop culture, and abstract expressionism, Alexander brings a unique and contemporary perspective to the world of horology.



The Spinnaker x The Dial Artist Croft 39 is a testament to this shared passion for pushing artistic and horological boundaries. The watch is a visual symphony of colors and textures, drawing inspiration from the celestial dance of the Aurora Borealis and the bioluminescent glow of marine life. The forged carbon fiber bezel, accented with luminous green markers, evokes the ethereal shimmer of the Northern Lights, while the hand-painted carbon fiber dial, infused with a blue luminous compound, captures the mesmerizing depths of the ocean. The exhibition case back, showcasing The Dial Artist's logo, offers a glimpse into the intricate workings of the automatic movement, a reminder of the mechanical ingenuity that powers this exceptional timepiece.



But the Spinnaker x The Dial Artist Croft 39 is more than just a visual spectacle; it’s a watch designed for those who appreciate the finer details. The fluorescent keepers and the paintbrush-tipped seconds hand add a touch of whimsy and artistry, while the robust stainless steel case and the sapphire crystal ensure durability and longevity. The watch is also water-resistant to 15 ATM, making it suitable for swimming and snorkeling, a nod to Spinnaker’s maritime heritage.



The timing of this collaboration couldn’t be more perfect. 2024 is predicted to be an exceptional year for the Northern Lights, with the "solar maximum" promising the most spectacular displays in over two decades. The Spinnaker x The Dial Artist Croft 39 is a timely tribute to this celestial phenomenon, allowing you to carry a piece of the Aurora Borealis wherever you go. It’s a watch that invites you to look up at the night sky, to marvel at the wonders of nature, and to embrace the spirit of exploration that lies within us all.



The watch's 39mm stainless steel case strikes a balance between robustness and wearability, making it suitable for a wide range of wrist sizes. The case's design is classic diver, with its bold lines and screw-down crown, hinting at the watch's ability to withstand depths of up to 150 meters. This isn't just a desk diver; it's a watch that can accompany you on your aquatic adventures, a testament to Spinnaker's seafaring spirit.



Now, let's turn our attention to that mesmerizing dial. The hand-painted carbon fiber surface is a feast for the eyes, with its swirling patterns of blue luminous compound reminiscent of a starry night sky or a bioluminescent bloom in the ocean depths. Each dial is a unique work of art, ensuring that no two watches are exactly alike. The paintbrush-tipped seconds hand adds a playful touch, a subtle reminder of the artist's hand in creating this masterpiece. The applied indices and hands, filled with luminous material, ensure legibility even in low-light conditions, a crucial feature for any diver's watch.



Framing this captivating dial is a unidirectional rotating bezel crafted from forged carbon fiber, a material prized for its strength and lightweight properties. The bezel's texture and pattern complement the dial's organic aesthetic, while the luminous green accents at the 12 o'clock position and the minute markers add a functional touch, aiding in tracking elapsed time. Protecting the dial is a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating, ensuring a clear view of the dial's intricate details.



Powering the Spinnaker x The Dial Artist Croft 39 is a reliable Japanese automatic movement, visible through the exhibition case back. The movement's steady rhythm, visible through the transparent window, adds a dynamic element to the watch, a constant reminder of the mechanical heart beating within. The watch comes with a stainless steel bracelet, further enhancing its robust and sporty character. But for those who prefer a more casual look, Spinnaker has included an additional rubber strap, allowing you to switch between styles effortlessly.



Let's address the elephant in the room: the price. The Spinnaker x The Dial Artist Croft 39 comes in at a surprisingly accessible $395. Considering the watch's hand-painted dial, unique design, and the collaboration with a renowned artist, it's a remarkable value proposition. This isn't just a watch purchase; it's an opportunity to own a piece of wearable art that embodies the spirit of exploration and discovery, all without breaking the bank.