A Look at the Alsta Nautoscaph V “Anacapri” Watch
Monday - 03 April 2023
Alsta releases a new version of the iconic Jaws watch – the Nautoscaph V “Anacapri”, complete with a saltwater-resistant bronze case, a vivid blue ceramic unidirectional rotating bezel, and 300-meter water resistance
The evolution of the Alsta Nautoscaph
The iconic Jaws film of 1975 showcased an equally iconic wristwatch – the Nautoscaph dive watch by Alsta, as worn by Richard Dreyfuss as the character Matt Hooper. Having developed an array of beautifully engineered watches for men and women during the 1960s and 1970s, Alsta went into a state of dormancy for 40 years but was revived in 2017 when the watchmaker released a redesigned version of the Nautoscaph dive watch. The Nautoscaph II, was inspired by the original Jaws watch. During its heyday, there were around 20 configurations of the popular model. The brand’s general consensus was “why not?”. The watch was popular - collectors wanted more variations – more they got!
The iconic Jaws watch named the Alsta Nautoscaph Superautomatic has an interesting story of evolution. Following this came a limited edition of just 1975 pieces, paying homage to the release year of the blockbuster film. Along with several other iterations that followed, the watch featured a burley physique, seriously deep water resistance, and a streamlined stainless steel diver’s case. The golden anniversary of the Superautomatic watch was celebrated with the Superautomatic 50 model. It featured a gilt dial and a Sellita movement for reliable accuracy. Since the rebirth of Alsta in 2017, the brand has released newer versions of the Nautoscaph, namely the II and III models – the latter of which is adorned with a black PVD-coated case. For the design of the Nautoscaph II, Alsta chose a larger 40mm case size as opposed to the former 36mm options. It was also cast from 316L stainless steel. The way to tell the difference between the Nautoscaph II generation and its younger cousin, the Nautoscaph III is the addition of the number 9 on the hour track of the III model, as well as the aforementioned PVD-coated case.
The Nautoscaph IV followed on from the third generation, with coffin-shaped indexes for the hour markers and a sapphire crystal glass front for added robustness. It also featured a PVD-coloured bezel and sword-shaped hands, not to mention several dial colours in addition to the standard black, including the Tropic option, the Blue Shark and the Great White. This brings us to the very latest edition of the Nautoscaph – the Nautoscaph V.
The new Alsta Nautoscaph V “Anacapri” watch
The new Alsta Nautoscaph V “Anacapri” watch has a vibrant blue dial to match an equally eye-catching blue ceramic bezel and a striking CuSn8 bronze case that has been integrated with a water resistance of 300 meters. Just a small number of these special “Anacapri” watches from Alsta’s Nautoscaph line will be released – each one having been manufactured in Switzerland and outfitted with a Seiko movement. Examples of quality engineering and manufacturing are evident in the model’s case and style. The bronze alloy is developed from 7.7% tin, 92% copper and approx. 0.3% phosphorus. The unique mix of materials ensures the case remains resistant to saltwater and exudes an almost rose gold patina, which changes as the watch ages on the wrist. The Nautoscaph V “Anacapri” watch is fitted with a screw-down crown and a strong domed and hardened mineral crystal glass front that not only promises a clear view into a vibrant blue dial, but promises superior shatter-resistance. The crown also features the same distinctive crosshatch engraving that can be seen in super-compressor diver watches of the 1960s and 1970s.
The display of the new Nautoscaph watch for 2023 features coffin-shaped indexes that have been treated with C3 Super-LumiNova, as have the hands. The 12, 6 and 9 o’clock Arabic numerals, along with the minute track details, are executed in a bronze colour to match the case. The 60-minute markings on the watch’s unidirectionally rotating bezel are white and highly legible. One other notable difference between the new and old Nautoscaph watches is that the Nautoscaph V “Anacapri” watch foregoes the cyclops lens above the date window on the dial at 3 o’clock to reduce the risk of damage to the crystal.
The new Alsta Nautoscaph V “Anacapri” watch is powered by the Seiko NH35A - an automatic calibre that produces a 41-hour power reserve and performs at a rate of 21,600 vibrations per hour. The model is completed on a handmade Italian leather strap in blue with a bronze buckle. If you’d like more information on the new Alsta Nautoscaph V “Anacapri” watch, you can call and speak to a member of our Jura Watches sale steam today on 01335 453453.
