McQuaide is doing interesting things in the world of steel. Turning entry-level connotations on its head, its watches spotlight Damascus steel – an ancient material, famed for its swirling, woodgrain-like patterns.
Originally used to make weaponry in ancient Eastern cultures, its organic nature means that no two dials in McQuaide’s offerings are the same.
New on the British watchmaking scene after its inception last year, the brand’s founder Rob McQuaide launched its e-commerce site at the end of last month after achieving Kickstarter funding in October.
Focusing on a core edit, the initial offering comes via the Q1 watch, available in three different colorways: Crimson, Abyss and Obsidian.
Measuring 43.2mm in diameter and 15mm thick, it features an exhibition caseback and a screw-down crown.
Its 120-click unidirectional bezel is equipped with BGW9 Super-LumiNova for maximum visibility, while a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating enhances clarity.
Inside, the Swiss Sellita SW200-1 automatic movement operates at 28,800 BPH with a 38-hour power reserve.
Pressure-tested to 100 ATM (1,000 meters) and featuring a helium escape valve, the Q1 is engineered for extreme underwater performance.
The brass guilloché dial features a date window at 3 o’clock, luminescent hands and indices, and a distinctive ‘claw’ second hand with a bold red tip, plus a hybrid nylon-rubber strap provides comfort and durability.
The pre-order window is now open for a limited release, with deliveries expected in April.
$981, mcquaide.co.uk.