The Return of the Evant Tropic Diver: Reintroducing one of Evant’s cornerstone timepieces, now with much more to love

roadwarrior

Grand Tyme Master
Founding Member
Joined
Jul 17, 2014
Messages
64,655
The Return of the Evant Tropic Diver

Reintroducing one of Evant’s cornerstone timepieces, now with much more to love.
Evant nsight

Introduction


kZJ4JSm.jpg

(Left: Tropic Diver 39 Remastered; Right Tropic Diver 39 Royal)

With the boom of independent micro watch brands in recent years, the watch community is spoilt for choice when it comes to acquiring timepieces carrying an excellent price to performance ratio while maintaining a direct line from the brand to their customer base. Even though most micro watch brands are conceived by like-minded enthusiasts, it’s no secret that not all brands are made the same. An emerging brand like Evant, with the brand’s interesting ethos and its rather peculiar designs, has piqued the interest of many watch lovers around the globe. Based on the specs sheet alone, Evant watches have gotten many things right in producing timepieces that stand out from the sea of countless other offerings; from the high-performance Swiss-made automatic movements to some of the most gorgeous lumed ceramic bezels I’ve seen on timepieces in this price segment.

k9GdyZ5.jpg

(A refreshing take on the Tropic Diver)

Since the brand’s release of their debut lineup — the Tropic Diver – many watch enthusiasts have been enduringly awaiting its next successor following its rapid sell-out at its launch. And yes, Evant answered the call, and the Tropic Diver will make its much-anticipated return, with a whole myriad of improvements and sensational revamps that the masses will absolutely appreciate. Quickly recapping the rudimentary design nature of the Tropic Diver, this lineup of dive watches looks in the past for a charming vintage inspiration while taking on a forward-looking approach of adopting a shade of futuristic panache in its novel dial design. The end result is truly fascinating, with the icing on the cake being the exceptional value for money considering its specifications.

Unveiling the Evant Tropic 39

Right out of the box, the latest Tropic Diver 39 is presented in a rustic sandy brown leather travel pouch, constructed with leather and precise stitchings that feel extremely high-quality. While the watch itself is certainly the main highlight, the little details like this really reflect on the ever-growing brand’s customer-centric attitude. And it is a really nice touch being able to utilize a watch packaging in preference of throwing it in the cupboard where it never sees the light again, props to Evant on this thoughtful inclusion.

ZmifUDv.jpg

(Unboxing the brand-new Tropic Diver 39 Remastered & Tropic Diver 39 Royal)

Taking a look at the watch in person, the fit and finish of the watch feel amazing in the hand with a slight heft and well-refined surfaces. With each of Evant’s releases, it never fails to impress with how great the watch feels considering its relatively budget-friendly price range, especially coming from a rather young brand that has only been on the market for several years. From the first glance, the iconic appearance of the first Tropic Diver certainly manifests splendidly on this latest release, carrying that punchy ultra-legible dial design we’re familiar with from the previous model alongside the rather minimalist dive bezel layout, capturing a cool modern look.

In the world of dive watches, there are seemingly endless options. Nevertheless, it is especially refreshing to see something bold from Evant, setting itself apart from the rest of the crowd with the brand’s distinct style. Depending on the implementation, having a peculiar design may be a hit-or-miss situation, even more so for younger smaller-scale watch brands. However, Evant definitely managed to create some stunning timepieces with much splendor, taking a valiant step forward as the brand strives to create watches with unique personality while retaining a visually charismatic appearance — and the Tropic Diver lineup beautifully reflects this.

SI8szIH.jpg

(In terms of looks, Evant certainly nailed it. Left: Tropic Diver 39 Royal; Right: Tropic Diver 39 Remastered)

Perhaps the biggest change for this new release of the Tropic Diver is distinguished by its case size, downscaling from a 41mm diameter to an elegant 39mm form factor. Smaller watches are inherently more comfortable with their compact build, and more and more brands are embracing sized-down models as more people are leaning towards more traditionally-sized timepieces in recent years. It is almost like the cool new thing to look for in watches these days. For a vintage-style diver like the Tropic Diver, having it in a sub-40mm diameter definitely makes perfect sense, and 39mm is a winning formula.

GVpB0bS.png

(Side by side comparison of the latest Tropic Diver 39 Remastered (Left) and the Gen. 1 Tropic Diver Fume Blue (Right) in 41mm)

A reduction of 2mm surely made all the difference. The watch arguably looks heaps more sophisticated, classy, and immensely refined. Contrary to popular belief, smaller timepieces can look confidently masculine on the wrist as much as their larger, slightly oversized counterparts.

Other than its tasteful looks, the Evant Tropic Diver 39 just got even more versatile, even pulling off a dressy front easily without a problem. It is worth mentioning that a full-fledged automatic dive watch with such graceful dimensions achieving a hefty 300m of water resistance is commendable. Throwing it on the wrist, the Tropic Diver 39 exudes an abundance of sporty character and a dashing vintage charm while carrying an understated wrist presence that is really eye-catching on the wrist.

nKdU1z9.jpg

(Showcasing the Tropic Diver 39 Remastered on the wrist)

Phenomenal Dialwork
Besides the case dimensions, another key upgrade for this latest Tropic Diver is instantly noticeable on the dial itself. The addition of a fresh Evant logo is exquisitely riveted on the dial at the 6 o’clock position, showing off the iconic mark of the brand in a detail that is so delicate yet exceedingly significant. Admittedly, it would be perfectly fine even if Evant utilized the previous dial design. It looked amazing as it was, and there was nothing wrong about it, so to speak. However, Evant went the extra mile anyway to bring something revitalizing to the dial of the Tropic Diver, which gave it a serious step up in finesse.

S8mXLAJ.jpg

(Things got better here)

Riveting the intricately machined Evant logo on the dial is an impressive feature that brands often overlook when adding fine attention to detail in ornate dial elements. Typically, such designs would depend solely on the use of high-quality industrial quality glue to secure applied logos onto the dial. This could potentially pose a risk of the logos disastrously peeling or falling off. Evant effectively eliminates this risk with a firm and secure attachment by fastening their logo onto the dial using short metal pins. Yet again, to achieve such a level of production quality, despite this competitive price point from a brand that has only been around for a few years, is a true marvel to behold.

kxXxvmF.jpg

(Immaculate level of detail in every aspect of the watch — Dial of Tropic Diver 39 Royal)

A defining characteristic of the Tropic Diver is clearly distinguishable in its striking dials with distinctively large hour markers, following the core design of the first Tropic Diver. Diving into dials of the black (remastered) and blue (royal) model, both of these new releases sport a dazzling fumé dial finished with radial brushing that lustrously plays with the light in different angles, producing a mesmerizing effect as its gradient fades to a deep inky black at the edges of the dial. Like the first edition, it is easy to see why the community really loved these dials. They say beauty is in the eyes of the beholder, and the extensive world of watches definitely has limitless dial options to offer. However, the distinctive modern aesthetic forges a compelling look that rivals even watches way above its price range.

ybRmU5l.jpg

(Applied hour markers, with smokey periphery)

Despite holding a rather traditional layout without excessive elements, the dial is executed well with delicately applied hour markers, constructing its unique look being slightly oversized while allowing for an extra legible experience when viewing the time. One of the details that made the watch especially appealing to me was the contrasting diamond-shaped 12 o’clock marker that pleasingly aligns with the design of the sweeping second hand, exhibiting a sense of balance and uniformity throughout with a touch of delightful peculiarity.

KAkIpTZ.jpg

(Gilt hands)

Naturally, a dial as stunning as this deserves a 3mm thick sapphire crystal, slightly domed with a treatment of blue anti-reflective coating for extra scratch-resistance. While not exceedingly domed, the gentle curve of the crystal feels just right, boosting the clarity and legibility of the dial when viewing at an angle without feeling entirely overwhelming.

2tksJzb.jpg


(Deconstructing the Tropic Diver 39)

EBmaDKs.jpg

(The Domed crystal made with AR coating)

The Ever-Reliable Swiss-made Engine
Following Evant’s fundamentals of only utilizing Swiss-made mechanical movements, the Tropic Diver 39 packs the ever-dependable Sellita SW200-1 Swiss automatic movement, essentially an ETA 2824-2 equivalent with an exceptional reputation of being a true performance-driven ‘workhorse.’ Seeing this movement on the specs sheet, especially with watches in this price range, is always delightful. The SW200-1 is certainly no stranger to many of our folks here, considering it is one of the most popular movements for a Swiss-made option both for microbrands and even timepieces in the entry-level luxury segment. Opening up the case back, the movement remains largely at its core form with a rather basic satin brushing (not that it really matters too much with a closed screw-in case back). Nevertheless, we can expect great performance and reliability from this highly-recognized Swiss engine.

2J66vWL.jpg


(The Sellita SW200-1 beneath, in all its glory)

WQw9kS7.jpg


A Bracelet Inspired by the Past, Crafted with Excellence


Coming to the most exciting and, unquestionably my favorite, addition to this new model — the vintage-style “beads-of-rice” stainless steel bracelet. In recent years, this classic bracelet design from the golden age of watchmaking has been making a huge comeback, gaining popularity with enthusiasts for its unique yet incredibly comfortable appeal. The beauty of having such bracelets on is the ability to look immensely elegant yet with a considerably sporty persona, evoking a timeless charm that handsomely complements the retro-futuristic style of the Tropic Diver 39.

NYAK0jy.png

(Vintage “beads-of-rice” style bracelet. Photo credit: Bulang & Sons)

fJOAvfN.png

(Retro Gay Frèrres bracelet poster. Photo credit: Bulang & Sons)

The “beads-of-rice” style first took the watch world by storm in the 1940s to 1950s, most notably in the legendary bracelet manufacturer Gay Frèrres, or otherwise known as GF. It was quite a feat considering its rather complex construction with significantly more individual links required compared to most forms of bracelets. From the perspectives of vintage watch collectors, more often than not, the condition of the watch itself, or even the rarity of it, tends to be the main driving factor for assessing whether it would be a desirable acquisition. However, looking beyond the actual watch, having a fascinating bracelet to accompany a rare timepiece is another fulfilling factor that completes the whole package with extra add-on value. In that same spirit, the bracelet on the Evant Tropic Diver 39 categorically amplifies the beautifully-designed case and dial, stepping it up with an accessory that embraces a connection to the history of watchmaking.

Qvqjznr.jpg

(A closer look at the supplied Evant “beads-of-rice” bracelet)

JFyFxXv.jpg


Having this bracelet on the wrist with the Tropic Diver is indeed enjoyable. The fundamental design itself, with a set of polished rounded ‘rice bead’ links flanked by thicker brushed links on each side, allows for an easy and fluid movement of the bracelet in order to closely conform to the shape of the wrist — I surely had no problem wearing on the wrist for the entire day. This truly versatile bracelet will go well with just about anything, from wearing it with a serious outfit to something a little more sporty.

oTgN8qh.jpg

(A retro wrist presence)

The Old and the New

AqD5vKE.jpg

(Impeccable case finishing and execution)

Besides the reduction in size, the latest Tropic Diver 39 features some attractive upgrades in its build. Starting with its finishing, the satin-brushed sides of the new model capture a sportier, more utilitarian character than the polished sides of the previous iteration (and lesser of a fingerprint magnet). While the actual thickness remains about the same for both the new and the previous model, the streamlined mid-case of the Tropic Diver 39 appears significantly more compact and refined. In addition, the sharper lug design brings a whole new reformed look to the case, bringing a massive revamp in sleekness and wearability. At the 3 o’clock position, the screw-down crown also takes on a new appearance with the embossing of the Evant logo in place of the previous etching on the crown, a minor detail that Evant did not leave out.

EhrMdOf.png

(Side-by-side comparison of previous and new (right) iteration of the Tropic Diver)

Moreover, the stainless steel case now receives a lovely polished chamfer running from lug to lug, transitioning finishes on the lugs and the side of the case, an inclusion not present on the previous iteration of Tropic Diver. A chamfer or bevelling of the edges is often considered a distinguishing feature differentiating ordinary timepieces from superior ones associated with premium components or closer attention to details. Besides being aesthetically pleasing, the polished chamfer allows the light to elegantly play over the lugs, fostering an added presence on the wrist.

IH4tmXF.png

(Presenting a beautiful polished chamfer on the new Tropic Diver)

lKrxktK.jpg


Another crucial factor that is considered a significant game-changer for dive watches is the rotating bezel. The Tropic Diver 39 retains the modern, minimal bezel design of the previous release that we’re familiar with, packing a gorgeous convex form with engraved markers portraying a warm glossy look synonymous with vintage bakelite bezels of the past. Notably, the bezel now proposes a more substantial bezel grip with deeper grooves, enhancing the overall experience of rotating the bezel even with diving gloves on; it is a fully-capable dive watch after all.

dreRUkw.png

(Latest Tropic Diver 39 Remastered VS First Gen. Tropic Diver Fume Blue)

Flipping the watch around, the case-back moves away from the previous design to an etching of the Evant logo with a line pattern running over (perhaps a much sensible design to mask over hairline scratches that develop over time in day-to-day wear), a simple yet pleasant design nonetheless. Moreover, the screw-in case-back is now equipped with six porthole-style grooves instead of the standard hexagonal grooves seen on the previous release, resulting in a suave yet modernistic appearance.

Y8U2O3S.png

(Two distinctive case-backs, one single spirit)

4taB74e.jpg


(Evant’s offering never fails to deliver quality with value)

SGjVTWa.jpg


Comparing the latest Tropic Diver with its predecessor, it is really gratifying to see Evant carry through a whole range of upgrades in both aesthetics and execution that the community is really looking out for, and the wait was truly worth it. Coming from a young brand like Evant, every model from the brand never fails to excite with phenomenal timepieces delivering a ton of value and attractive designs that stand out from the crowd. Overall, the Evant Tropic Diver 39 is a well-rounded dive watch excelling in both specifications and looks. The upgrades we get on this new release refined seemingly every aspect of the Tropic Diver. Presumably, these are the types of releases the watch enthusiast community yearn for from younger brands that have much more control over individual elements. The Tropic Diver 39 has showcased a bold direction from Evant when it comes to design innovation and understanding what people look out for in a great dive watch, and it is safe to say Evant has delivered one that propitiously transcended our expectations.

 
prefer the larger version and the straps over the bracelet. The bracelet just doesn't gel here to me. I have the Evant Decodiver. Its a very good watch for the price and they do great dial work. I'd consider these at 42mm+
 
heart throb... yeah I think i prefer wrist clock shrinkage ....beautiful iterations... I think I might understand the font-markers hands- maybe like another a reference to fountain pens...nibs and all ? doh

any way she sure does have a pretty face... maybe I can lurk in and suspend tyme wait for NOS
 
Not sure why companies can’t make tiny watches for tiny wrists and something for standard size wrists which google said is 7 1/4. 40 looks small on my 7 1/4 wrist. Wing does it why can’t others?
 
There are enough companies and brands out there that make something to fit all size wrist. I understand why brands are not going to make sizes they may only sell a few of. It's good business sense to cater to your strengths. Zelos and other brands with narrow size catalogues take heat for not going larger, but they are constantly growing. I could understand if there were no trinkets out there at all to pick from, but the list is endless. The choices may not be as appealing, but you can't always get what you want.
 

Closer Look; At The New Evant Tropic Diver 39 Pro​

Aug 5, 2022

GNOMON WATCHES
AMLnZu_MUTTiDbCiJquQUHDwXLe8OfhzFzAxha4QWQS-=s48-c-k-c0x00ffffff-no-rj


Back in 2017 when young and enthusiast-driven brand Evant first debuted with their release of the Tropic Diver collection, it undeniably ignited a sense of passionate excitement which brought a massive shake up with its success, especially amongst the community of avid watch lovers coveting for something fresh, well crafted and with excellent affordability. Ever since, the Evant team has been continuously conceptualizing and brewing up the next iteration of the Tropic Diver — and at long last, it’s finally here, more captivating than ever, back with some really appealing revamps in its physique and dial details.


Introducing The New Evant Tropic Diver 39 Pro


"Promo Code: Cy20"

Back in 2017 when young and enthusiast-driven brand Evant first debuted with their release of the Tropic Diver collection, it undeniably ignited a sense of passionate excitement which brought a massive shake up with its success, especially amongst the community of avid watch lovers coveting for something fresh, well crafted and with excellent affordability. Ever since, the Evant team has been continuously conceptualizing and brewing up the next iteration of the Tropic Diver — and at long last, it’s finally here, more captivating than ever, back with some really appealing revamps in its physique and dial details.

EvantTropicDriver39Pro11_600x600.jpg
Evant Tropic Diver 39 Pro
It’s no secret that watches are gravitating towards smaller, more elegant proportions, even more so for models drawing inspiration from vintage timepieces. On that note, here’s something the masses would be delighted to hear; this latest release of the Tropic Diver comes in a beautiful 39.5mm form factor, further accentuating the line up’s retro-futuristic artistry in its design. Naturally, the sub-40mm compact sizing translates into an extremely comfortable fit, taking into consideration its meticulously designed lug design, gently curving downwards to hug the wrist with ease. With an effective lug to lug distance of 48.7mm and a case thickness of 13.5mm, the watch evokes a charming sense of nostalgia evocative of classic dive watches from the 70s.

In terms of its overall fit and finish, the Evant Tropic Diver 39 Pro upholds an exceptionally high standard of quality with sharp, elaborate case finishes — no expenses were spared here. Finished with predominantly fine satin brushing along the top of the lugs and side of the case, the watch is further refined with a suave polished chamfer running from lug to lug, adding a winning touch of multi-finished finesse to the overall appearance.


EvantTropicDriver39Pro2_600x600.jpg
Matt pumpkin orange dial with the illustrious Evant emblem riveted

For the very first time, the Tropic Diver comes presented on a 20mm solid stainless steel “Beads-of-Rice” bracelet flanked by brushed links on each side, accompanying polished bead links in the middle allowing for ample flexibility on the wrist. Inspired by a distinctive old-school style of bracelet first appearing on chronographs during the 40s to 50s period, this choice of bracelet holds an classy yet incredibly versatile look that is undeniably coming back in style. The bracelet elegantly tapers down to 18mm at the Evant-signed deployant clasp, furnished with seven micro adjustments to ensure a precise fit.

Following the appearance of vintage bakelite bezels on timepieces from the golden age of watchmaking, the Evant Tropic Diver 39 Pro houses a glossy black 120-click ratcheting ‘bakelite’ ceramic bezel insert, rendered in a raised convex design to achieve the distinguished look. Engineered from a special blend of ceramic with minimal luminous markers, the bezel boasts superior resistance to scratches.


EvantTropicDriver39Pro6_600x600.jpg
Vintage ‘bakelite’ ceramic bezel insert with “Beads-of-Rice” bracelet


Despite packing an overall dial design that is fundamentally the same to previous iterations at its core, the bright pumpkin orange dial of the Evant Tropic Diver 39 Pro gets a subtle rework, and the result is truly gorgeous. Most notably, the dial takes on a cleaner, more refined approach with the illustrious Evant emblem riveted onto the 6 o’clock position, an intricate detail bringing a ton of character to the dial. Just like the previous Tropic Diver, the maxi applied hour markers throw in a cool futuristic aesthetic, generously applied with BGW9 Swiss Super-LumiNova for a vivid glow in the dark. Above all, the dial is protected by a 3mm thick domed sapphire crystal, treated with blue anti-reflective coating for the best viewing experience.

At the heart of the Evant Tropic Diver 39 Pro lies the ever-reliable Swiss Sellita Cal. SW200-1 automatic movement, a 26 jewel workhorse engine renowned for its stellar mechanical performance known to rival the ETA 2824-2 as its almost-identical counterpart. Boasting a healthy power reserve of approximately 38 hours and a frequency of 28,800 beats per hour, this robust movement is definitely one splendid inclusion on the specifications list, especially for an offering at this competitive price range. Held beneath the screw-in caseback and Evant’s substantial screw-down crown, the watch is equipped with a high 300m of water resistance, establishing itself as a full-fledged dive watch ready for the seas.

EvantTropicDriver39Pro8_600x600.jpg
BGW9 Swiss Super-LumiNova

Being a limited production model exclusively available at Gnomon Watches, the long-awaited release of the Evant Tropic Diver is back with so much to love. Considering the premium specifications and the astonishing value here, we can certainly see why Evant timepieces consistently remain incredibly sought-after by fellow enthusiasts, you won’t want to miss this one.

EvantTropicDriver39PouchEngraved_600x600.jpg
Free custom-engraving on leather pouch

To show some love for our esteemed customers, the first 100 owners will be entitled for a free additional custom-engraving on the included Evant premium leather travel pouch, whether for an important occasion or some heartfelt wishes, this graceful gesture truly completes the entire Evant package. Before adding the watch to the cart, indicate your desired words or sentences (limited to 2 sentences, 15 words each) in the field provided.

Specifications
Maker: Evant Timepieces
Movement: Swiss Made SW200 Automatic
Dial: Pumpkin orange
Luminous: Superluminova. BGW9.
Case: 316L Stainless Steel. Polished.
Crown type: 316L. 6.5mm. Screwdown. Signed Crown
Lug width: 20mm
Crystal material: 3mm Domed Vintage Sapphire Crystal with Inner Anti-reflective Coat
Strap: 316L Stainless Steel
Water resistance: 300m
Dimensions: 41mm in diameter, 48mm lug to lug, 13mm thick
 
like the orange.... this is an interesting study of when a brand can go the the well too often.

First they release the (Breguet homage) Diver39 and they sell out fast, re-release in bronze, sell out fast. Decodiver (sort of Zenith/Blancpain) , sells out fast.

polestar- only one of four colors sells out.

re-re-release the Diver 39 and not a lot of noise.

i think the 41mm is a misprint. I'd consider it if it were actually 41 over larger.
 
yeah defer to THE DARK OVERLORD he got grail and

he had EVANT WRISTED

me luv me BP50F DNA ART DECO chubby checker twist

i feel movement down below

but like i posted i am keeping pledge to wifey ...horo celibate..no watches-hats-knives-sweats- ayurvedic herbs from INDIA-SHIRTS-DULUTH -sneakers - no voices no urges

meanwhile wifey fires at will on net shopping ... we agreed when wifey orders shoes-clothes-books it's an ORDER

WHEN ScottyB TRIGGER PULLS IT'S A DIS-ORDER

but still i am enjoying my NET CHASTITY clink-clink-clink- coin flow to bottom line

bullets against INFLATION GAS- GROCERIES-HOUSING -CARS -INSURANCE

and looking is fun especially if THE VOCIES CAN BE MUZZLED

AS A SELF-CONFESSED ADDICT OF MORE THAN A DECADE

" WHO KNOWS WHERE THE TYME GOES ? WHO KNOWS WHERE THE TYME GO-O-O-ES ? "

I know the voices can be submerged but they are sneaky powerful monsters hide in dark neanderthal places of the rear brain break out without notice hungrier than ever...feed the best fellas

feed the beast
 
footnote on PUMPKIN color way

yeah that deep rich PUMPKIN IS A ScottyB fave

DEEP pumpkin formulated by adding RED...i do not like orange sun where Yellow IS ADDED jmho
 
Poor ScottyB is kitty-whipped.
haha RW ...not sad about it...all depends on POV

a first world problem

arsenic in the drinking water wells used to be a 3rd world problem like in the sub-continent aka INDIA...

but now I see we got that same in the left coast USA

so i' ll take the cat o' 9 tail PWHIP over poison in my water...plus she might just have a point///

with my brain evolved for fine deviation " distinction " i did plink that internet hard like a shooting gallery///

stay safe RW " 6 days on the road... "
 
Back
Top Bottom