Nothing in cart
Review of the Squale 20 Atmos Black Ceramic MK 2
My first hands on experience with the modern 20 Atmos collection
Published by: Jun Kai
Published by: Jun Kai
Aug 05, 2024
I have always been fascinated with dive watches ever since I laid my eyes on my very own Seiko samurai. And when one mentions a dive watch, the first thing that pops in my head is the black dial with black unidirectional bezel with a minute track. So, when I was given a Squale 20 Atmos black ceramic MK 2 to wear, I was definitely most excited to share my experience.
Making watches since 1959, Squale is no stranger when it comes to designing dive watches. In fact, they are one of the pioneers of the classic model with the black dial, minute unidirectional black bezel, screwed down crown and caseback. Each detail on the watch serves a unique purpose and is produced out of love for diving and the marine world. As dive watch specialists, Squale watches are designed and made to perform in the most extreme conditions, an instrument of reliability befitting the true diver. Gnomon's close working relationship with Squale is cemented in our love for professional tool watches. Together, both sides have co-created classic and exclusive iterations inspired by their rich archives.
Enough with the backstory, let's get to know the watch! Talking about an iconic dive watch, the MK 2 20 Atmos is as good as it gets. The 20 Atmos Black Ceramic showcase a masterful blend of tradition and innovation that Squale has come to be known for. This latest iteration in the 20 Atmos collection brings with it a host of upgrades that are not merely cosmetic but enhance both functionality and wearability. Starting with the ceramic bezel, this feature isn't just about durability; it's a statement. The painstaking process of shaping, engraving, and superheating the ceramic to 1500 degrees ensures a finish that's as tough as it is sleek, with the silver-filled numerals standing out against the high gloss for clarity and a touch of elegance.
Slapping the Squale 20 Atmos Black Ceramic MK 2 on my wrist for the first time was like a warm yet firm handshake with a business partner. The ceramic bezel immediately catches the eye, not just because it's shiny, but because you know it's been through the ringer to look that good—engraved, baked, and then filled with silver paint. It's not just tough; it's got some character. It takes a little force to turn at first but once it gets going, it rotates like butter. This shows Squale distills great attention to details, especially for professional divers such that they don't accidentally turn a loosely fitted bezel yet they can adjust with relative ease. Definitely a touch of luxury, as if closing the door to an expensive car.
The watch itself sits nicely on the wrist, thanks in part to those curved-down lugs and the new tropic strap. This isn't your standard rubber strap; it's comfortable, sure, but it also feels rugged, without turning into a wrist sauna. I personally dislike rubber straps due to the heat and general discomfort. But this rubber strap is definitely an exception, sitting on my wrist comfortably. Not only that, due to the rubber, I have a piece of mind knowing that I do not have to worry about scratches as much.
I did swap it back to the original bracelet to try out the difference between the two. Right away, I could feel the shift in how the 20 Atmos sat on my wrist. The original bracelet gives it a more traditional dive watch vibe—it's heftier and gives the watch a more 'put-together' look that seems just right for dressier occasions or daily office wear over a sportier adventure look.
The bracelet is robust, yet surprisingly comfortable. The links are flexible and sits nicely around the wrist, making it feel secure without any pinching or uncomfortable tightness. This change from the sporty rubber strap to the sleek stainless steel bracelet really showcased the watch's versatility. Swapping back to the original bracelet highlighted another layer of the Squale 20 Atmos MK 2's appeal. Whether you're heading out for a dive or just heading into the office, this watch transitions smoothly, fitting into a wide range of settings with ease.
The Sellita SW200-1 movement keeps things ticking reliably inside, and honestly, there's comfort in knowing it's got my back without needing constant attention. With a power reserve on the an ample 40 hours might felt limiting at first, and personally would have loved a longer power reserve so that I can swap around my watches on the day to day without needing to wind it up again. That said, the movement is a proven Swiss caliber for decades and I can’t complain much.
Glancing down to check the time becomes an opportunity to admire the dial's glossy finish and those luminous indices that just pop. It is definitely distracting to see the dial as it is such a reflective watch, to the point that I can see reflections of the indices. The luxurious features of the watch makes it mesmerising, constantly admiring the shine and brilliance. With such well-done polishing and bezel leaves it vulnerable to fingerprints, which being a finicky person, will constantly wipe it just to keep the sheens of the watch. However, it's a fair trade off for the aesthetics presented on the watch. It was a breeze to read time whether I'm out for lunch or in a dimly lit pool.
When one talks about the Squale 20 Atmos Black Ceramic MK 2 the resemblance a certain way back to the Rolex Submariner is inevitable. While the Submariner has long been a hallmark in horology, the Squale deserves it's place in dive watch history just as much. The Squale doesn't aim to replace the Rolex's submariner grail status but instead seeks to broaden the community's horizon, offering a gateway into the world of high-quality dive watches with its rich history rooted in Swiss watchmaking expertise and a strong dedication to the sport of diving.
The Squale 20 Atmos MK 2's story is more about honoring and continuing a tradition of reliable underwater companionship accessible to a broader audience. Squale has been a behind-the-scenes architect of dive watch history, supplying cases to many renowned brands and outfitting professional divers since the 1950s. This legacy imbues each Squale watch with a spirit of humble excellence and a proof of craftsmanship that's as much about celebrating its own heritage as it is about providing a solid, trustworthy tool for modern adventurers. In this way, Squale offers not just a watch but a piece of diving history, making it a cherished item for those who value the spirit of exploration over just looking at the prestige of brand names.
In essence, the latest Squale 20 Atmos Black Ceramic MK 2 stands as a testament to Squale's ability to innovate while respecting its heritage. It's a watch that feels both familiar and fresh, a worthy addition to any collection, whether you're a seasoned collector or diving into your first purchase. Its blend of robust materials, meticulous engineering, and timeless design ensures that the 20 Atmos MK 2 is not just a watch but a piece of historical art that embodies the diver spirit.
Making watches since 1959, Squale is no stranger when it comes to designing dive watches. In fact, they are one of the pioneers of the classic model with the black dial, minute unidirectional black bezel, screwed down crown and caseback. Each detail on the watch serves a unique purpose and is produced out of love for diving and the marine world. As dive watch specialists, Squale watches are designed and made to perform in the most extreme conditions, an instrument of reliability befitting the true diver. Gnomon's close working relationship with Squale is cemented in our love for professional tool watches. Together, both sides have co-created classic and exclusive iterations inspired by their rich archives.
Enough with the backstory, let's get to know the watch! Talking about an iconic dive watch, the MK 2 20 Atmos is as good as it gets. The 20 Atmos Black Ceramic showcase a masterful blend of tradition and innovation that Squale has come to be known for. This latest iteration in the 20 Atmos collection brings with it a host of upgrades that are not merely cosmetic but enhance both functionality and wearability. Starting with the ceramic bezel, this feature isn't just about durability; it's a statement. The painstaking process of shaping, engraving, and superheating the ceramic to 1500 degrees ensures a finish that's as tough as it is sleek, with the silver-filled numerals standing out against the high gloss for clarity and a touch of elegance.
Slapping the Squale 20 Atmos Black Ceramic MK 2 on my wrist for the first time was like a warm yet firm handshake with a business partner. The ceramic bezel immediately catches the eye, not just because it's shiny, but because you know it's been through the ringer to look that good—engraved, baked, and then filled with silver paint. It's not just tough; it's got some character. It takes a little force to turn at first but once it gets going, it rotates like butter. This shows Squale distills great attention to details, especially for professional divers such that they don't accidentally turn a loosely fitted bezel yet they can adjust with relative ease. Definitely a touch of luxury, as if closing the door to an expensive car.
The watch itself sits nicely on the wrist, thanks in part to those curved-down lugs and the new tropic strap. This isn't your standard rubber strap; it's comfortable, sure, but it also feels rugged, without turning into a wrist sauna. I personally dislike rubber straps due to the heat and general discomfort. But this rubber strap is definitely an exception, sitting on my wrist comfortably. Not only that, due to the rubber, I have a piece of mind knowing that I do not have to worry about scratches as much.
I did swap it back to the original bracelet to try out the difference between the two. Right away, I could feel the shift in how the 20 Atmos sat on my wrist. The original bracelet gives it a more traditional dive watch vibe—it's heftier and gives the watch a more 'put-together' look that seems just right for dressier occasions or daily office wear over a sportier adventure look.
The bracelet is robust, yet surprisingly comfortable. The links are flexible and sits nicely around the wrist, making it feel secure without any pinching or uncomfortable tightness. This change from the sporty rubber strap to the sleek stainless steel bracelet really showcased the watch's versatility. Swapping back to the original bracelet highlighted another layer of the Squale 20 Atmos MK 2's appeal. Whether you're heading out for a dive or just heading into the office, this watch transitions smoothly, fitting into a wide range of settings with ease.
The Sellita SW200-1 movement keeps things ticking reliably inside, and honestly, there's comfort in knowing it's got my back without needing constant attention. With a power reserve on the an ample 40 hours might felt limiting at first, and personally would have loved a longer power reserve so that I can swap around my watches on the day to day without needing to wind it up again. That said, the movement is a proven Swiss caliber for decades and I can’t complain much.
Glancing down to check the time becomes an opportunity to admire the dial's glossy finish and those luminous indices that just pop. It is definitely distracting to see the dial as it is such a reflective watch, to the point that I can see reflections of the indices. The luxurious features of the watch makes it mesmerising, constantly admiring the shine and brilliance. With such well-done polishing and bezel leaves it vulnerable to fingerprints, which being a finicky person, will constantly wipe it just to keep the sheens of the watch. However, it's a fair trade off for the aesthetics presented on the watch. It was a breeze to read time whether I'm out for lunch or in a dimly lit pool.
When one talks about the Squale 20 Atmos Black Ceramic MK 2 the resemblance a certain way back to the Rolex Submariner is inevitable. While the Submariner has long been a hallmark in horology, the Squale deserves it's place in dive watch history just as much. The Squale doesn't aim to replace the Rolex's submariner grail status but instead seeks to broaden the community's horizon, offering a gateway into the world of high-quality dive watches with its rich history rooted in Swiss watchmaking expertise and a strong dedication to the sport of diving.
The Squale 20 Atmos MK 2's story is more about honoring and continuing a tradition of reliable underwater companionship accessible to a broader audience. Squale has been a behind-the-scenes architect of dive watch history, supplying cases to many renowned brands and outfitting professional divers since the 1950s. This legacy imbues each Squale watch with a spirit of humble excellence and a proof of craftsmanship that's as much about celebrating its own heritage as it is about providing a solid, trustworthy tool for modern adventurers. In this way, Squale offers not just a watch but a piece of diving history, making it a cherished item for those who value the spirit of exploration over just looking at the prestige of brand names.
In essence, the latest Squale 20 Atmos Black Ceramic MK 2 stands as a testament to Squale's ability to innovate while respecting its heritage. It's a watch that feels both familiar and fresh, a worthy addition to any collection, whether you're a seasoned collector or diving into your first purchase. Its blend of robust materials, meticulous engineering, and timeless design ensures that the 20 Atmos MK 2 is not just a watch but a piece of historical art that embodies the diver spirit.
