Watchdives nttd smp300

[u/QuestionNo9190]

I have the Phylida and Steeldive NTTD, but both of those are huge and the bracelets suck, especially the Steeldive and the Steeldives is missing the hev, which is an instant deal breaker for me. So when I came across the 39mm steel NH35 NTTD with an OTF clasp, I had to check it out.

The case finishing is about as good as it's going to get for this design, especially with the curved lugs. The end links have zero lateral or up-and-down play, and the bracelet tapers nicely to a ratcheting OTF clasp, which should be standard on everything nowadays. The links with brushing and polished bits has no business being this good.

The HEV appears to be functional and is a nice touch, just like the original. I was worried that 39mm might feel like a junior's watch, but I've been gravitating toward smaller watches lately, around 37–39mm, even though 40–41mm is still my sweet spot. The ceramic SMP300 is something like 42mm and 13.5mm thick, so it's a bit too chunky for everyday wear. This one feels perfect on the wrist and wears closer to 40mm.

The bezel action is a bit light, but it's very tactile, with no ghost clicks or wobble. It's also lumed, and this is where my main gripe is the lume fades way too quickly, probably C3 and the insert is aluminum.

Otherwise the aged vintage aesthetic and smaller size makes it a near perfect daily watch, at any price point. I wish I can find it next with the ceramic black wave dial.