Three numbers do a lot of work
By Sam Okafor, London ยท
The Super Antarctic 3.6.9 is a study in how much a few numerals can do. Black dial, three large Arabic numerals, baton markers elsewhere, and an aged finish that warms everything toward the colour of old paper. It's an explorer-style layout, and it's very well balanced.
The 38 mm case with 45 mm lug to lug is right for most wrists, and 12 mm of height keeps it under a cuff. Inside is the Soprod P024 automatic, a reliable Swiss calibre with 38 hours.
Not everyone will love the faux patina. 'Tropical' effects on new watches can feel like a costume, and if that bothers you Nivada sells the same watch without it.
At $945 it's one of the cheapest ways into a Swiss automatic with a genuine historical source. A tidy, likable design.