Spinnaker Piccard Skeleton Automatic

Aesthetics That Dive Deep

Words by: Hourstriker Staff
August 9, 2024
In the world of dive watches, where precision, durability, and style converge, Spinnaker has carved a distinctive niche for itself. Renowned for its robust construction and nautical-inspired designs, the brand consistently delivers timepieces that capture the spirit of adventure and exploration. Among their latest offerings, the Piccard Skeleton Automatic stands as a testament to Spinnaker's unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of horological innovation.



Founded in 2014, Spinnaker is a relatively young brand in the watchmaking industry, but it has rapidly gained recognition for its exceptional timepieces. Drawing inspiration from the golden age of sailing and yachting, Spinnaker's watches pay homage to the rich maritime heritage and the intrepid spirit of seafarers. The brand's name itself, a reference to the triangular sail used on racing yachts, reflects its deep connection to the nautical world.

Courtesy of Spinnaker


From its inception, Spinnaker has sought to create watches that embody the essence of maritime adventure. Each timepiece is meticulously crafted with a focus on functionality, durability, and aesthetic appeal. The brand's designs often incorporate nautical elements, such as bold colors, textured dials reminiscent of ocean waves, and robust cases built to withstand the rigors of the deep sea.



Spinnaker's commitment to quality is evident in its use of premium materials and reliable movements. The brand sources its components from reputable suppliers and employs skilled watchmakers to assemble its timepieces with precision and care. This dedication to craftsmanship ensures that each Spinnaker watch is not only a stylish accessory but also a dependable companion for those who embrace an active lifestyle.



The Piccard collection, named after the renowned Swiss oceanographer and explorer Jacques Piccard, encapsulates the spirit of adventure and the pursuit of the unknown. Inspired by the daring feats of deep-sea exploration, these watches are designed to withstand the most challenging conditions and accompany their wearers on their own journeys of discovery.



The Piccard Skeleton Automatic, the latest addition to this esteemed collection, takes the spirit of exploration to new depths. This exceptional timepiece pushes the boundaries of dive watch design, seamlessly blending technical prowess with captivating aesthetics. From its robust construction to its intricate skeletonized movement, the Piccard Skeleton Automatic is a watch that demands attention and admiration.



The Piccard Skeleton Automatic's design is a masterful fusion of form and function. Its 45mm stainless steel case, crafted from 316L stainless steel, exudes a sense of rugged elegance. The case's distinctive "bubble" lens, reminiscent of vintage dive watches, adds a touch of retro charm while providing exceptional clarity and durability.



Beneath the super-domed sapphire crystal lies a mesmerizing display of horological artistry. The skeletonized dial reveals the intricate inner workings of the automatic movement, showcasing the intricate gears, springs, and jewels that power this remarkable timepiece. The black dial provides a striking contrast to the polished steel components, creating a visual spectacle that is both captivating and informative.

Courtesy of Spinnaker


The applied indices, filled with Swiss Super-LumiNova, ensure optimal readability in low-light conditions, a crucial feature for any dive watch. The hands, also treated with luminescent material, glide effortlessly across the dial, marking the passage of time with precision and grace.



Completing the Piccard Skeleton Automatic's aesthetic appeal is a solid stainless steel bracelet, seamlessly integrated into the case. The bracelet's 22mm width provides a comfortable and secure fit, while its brushed finish complements the case's polished accents. A fold-over buckle with a safety lock ensures that the watch remains securely fastened, even during the most strenuous activities.



Beyond its striking aesthetics, the Piccard Skeleton Automatic boasts an impressive array of technical features that make it a true diver's companion. Its water resistance rating of 55 ATM (550 meters) ensures that it can withstand the pressures of the deep sea, making it suitable for even the most adventurous underwater explorations.



At the heart of this remarkable timepiece beats the Seiko NH70 Skeleton Automatic movement. This reliable and robust caliber, renowned for its accuracy and durability, powers the watch's three hands and provides a power reserve of approximately 41 hours. With 24 jewels and a beat rate of 21,600 vibrations per hour, the NH70 ensures smooth and precise timekeeping.



The Piccard Skeleton Automatic's sapphire lens, treated with an anti-reflective coating, offers exceptional clarity and scratch resistance. This ensures that the wearer can admire the intricate details of the skeletonized dial without any visual obstructions.



The watch's screw-down crown further enhances its water resistance, preventing moisture from seeping into the case. The crown's knurled edges provide a secure grip, even with wet or gloved hands, allowing for easy adjustment of the time and date.



While the Spinnaker Piccard Skeleton Automatic is undeniably a feast for the eyes, its true brilliance lies in the meticulous attention to detail and thoughtful engineering that permeates every aspect of its design. This watch is not merely a fashion statement; it's a precision instrument built to withstand the rigors of underwater exploration while maintaining its refined aesthetic.

Courtesy of Spinnaker


The beating heart of the Piccard Skeleton Automatic is the Seiko NH70 Skeleton Automatic movement, a caliber renowned for its reliability, accuracy, and robustness. This self-winding movement eliminates the need for manual winding, ensuring that the watch remains powered as long as it's worn or kept on a watch winder.



With a power reserve of approximately 41 hours, the NH70 can keep ticking even after being taken off for a day or two. Its 24 jewels minimize friction and wear, contributing to the movement's longevity and smooth operation. The 21,600 vibrations per hour beat rate ensures precise timekeeping, allowing the wearer to rely on the Piccard Skeleton Automatic for accurate timekeeping in any situation.



But perhaps the most captivating aspect of the NH70 movement is its skeletonized design. By removing material from the bridges and plates, Seiko has exposed the intricate inner workings of the movement, allowing the wearer to appreciate the mechanical ballet that takes place within. The gears, springs, and jewels are all on display, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that showcases the artistry and precision of watchmaking.



The Piccard Skeleton Automatic's 316L stainless steel case is a testament to Spinnaker's commitment to quality and durability. This marine-grade stainless steel is highly resistant to corrosion and wear, making it ideal for a dive watch that will be exposed to harsh environments.



The case's 45mm diameter strikes a balance between boldness and wearability, ensuring that the watch commands attention without overwhelming the wrist. The 52mm lug-to-lug distance allows for a comfortable fit on a variety of wrist sizes, while the 21mm thickness adds to the watch's presence without sacrificing its sleek profile.



The super-domed sapphire crystal lens, a hallmark of the Piccard collection, is not only visually striking but also incredibly durable. Sapphire is one of the hardest materials known to man, second only to diamond, making it highly resistant to scratches and impacts. The anti-reflective coating on the lens further enhances its clarity, ensuring that the wearer can admire the skeletonized movement in all its glory.

Courtesy of Spinnaker


The screw-down crown, a crucial feature for any dive watch, provides an additional layer of protection against water ingress. By screwing the crown down tightly against the case, a watertight seal is created, preventing moisture from reaching the delicate movement within.



The Piccard Skeleton Automatic's solid stainless steel bracelet is as robust and stylish as the case it complements. Crafted from the same 316L stainless steel, the bracelet is built to withstand the rigors of daily wear and underwater adventures.



The bracelet's 22mm width provides a comfortable and secure fit, while its brushed finish adds a touch of understated elegance. The fold-over buckle with safety lock ensures that the watch stays securely fastened, even during strenuous activities. The push-button release mechanism allows for easy removal and adjustment of the bracelet, making it a breeze to customize the fit.



One of the most critical features of any dive watch is its luminescence, and the Piccard Skeleton Automatic doesn't disappoint. The applied indices and hands are filled with Swiss Super-LumiNova, a high-performance luminescent material that glows brightly in low-light conditions. This ensures that the wearer can easily read the time even in the darkest depths of the ocean or during nighttime adventures.



With a retail price of $550 USD, the Spinnaker Piccard Skeleton Automatic offers exceptional value for a watch of its caliber. Its combination of robust construction, reliable movement, captivating design, and impressive technical features makes it a compelling choice for watch enthusiasts and adventurers alike.



Whether you're an avid diver, a seasoned sailor, or simply someone who appreciates fine craftsmanship and innovative design, the Piccard Skeleton Automatic is a watch that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression. It's a testament to Spinnaker's dedication to creating timepieces that not only tell time but also tell stories of adventure, exploration, and the enduring spirit of the sea.



In a world where disposable fashion and fleeting trends dominate, the Spinnaker Piccard Skeleton Automatic stands as a beacon of enduring style and substance. It's a watch that celebrates the timeless allure of mechanical watchmaking, the thrill of exploration, and the boundless beauty of the ocean.

Courtesy of Spinnaker


With its captivating design, robust construction, and impressive technical features, the Piccard Skeleton Automatic is a watch that will accompany you on your life's journey, marking the passage of time with precision and grace. It's a watch that will spark conversations, ignite passions, and inspire you to embrace the spirit of adventure that lies within.



So whether you're exploring the depths of the ocean, navigating the urban jungle, or simply enjoying a quiet moment of reflection, the Spinnaker Piccard Skeleton Automatic is a watch that will always be by your side, a constant reminder of the boundless possibilities that await those who dare to dream and explore.
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