Bringing things to reality - The Zealandic Iceborne

It was no so long ago when we have the pleasure of talking with Derek Chuan about its new project Zealandic , and of course their first model the Iceborne. 

It was an avid conversation; everything was still on paper with great design cues and a spirit to be different. Then, a bit of time passes by, and their prototype watch arrives in my doorstep, I was immediately hooked. Of course, if you want to read the full review of the watch (here is the link https://www.robbieandwatches.co.uk/single-post/new-textures-for-the-field-zeelandic-iceborne) but we are here to talk about the final product, the one that it was envisioned from the start.

What I enjoyed the must from this particular journey was that I got to see an idea coming to fruition. Usually what happens is when this so call idea gets out in the real world, realities start hitting your project. In the case of a watch, the design itself could end up on a different path due to supplier realities or even worst be affected by the opinion of the enthusiast base. in other words, it would bring something completely different to what it was intended too.

With all this in mind, I am lucky to have the final version of the Iceborne and after a successful campaign on Kickstarter, we can safely say that is much better that the original. The watch is still 99.9% of what was conceived on that paper but with improvements instead of compromises. Join me to discover the new GADA kid on the block.

The specifications

A watch merits start with their dimensions. It is impossible ( at least to me) to have a watch that is hard to wear and still be appreciated as an object. We are glad to report that the original figures of the Icerborne are the same at 39mm in diameter with a lug to lug of 47mm. These dimensions are spot on for a watch that is aimed to be a daily wearer specially for my 6.25-inch wrist. The Iceborne in my opinion is not a big watch but neither a small one, and that is ideal for a companion that is aimed for adventure, hence the beautiful logo that depicts waves, forests and sky, all the landmarks you encounter in an adventure.

 The case is also something to highlight, especially with that new metal bracelet but more on that later. The brushed nature of the stainless-steel screams to the fact that this is a watch that can take a beating. You can definitely find some lovely, polished highlights but the Iceborne is here to be used, not to be taken care of which is something that I truly enjoy.  The bezel feels well-made and goes in proportion with the mid case which is now thinner than the prototype we received a few months back. This new refinement is possible thanks to the thin Miyota 9039 which gives 42 hours of power reserve and thanks to the oversized screw down crown (well machined to add an extra remark) the Iceborne is secured for 200 meters of water resistance. There is no denying that these types of specification are above average on what we can find in the industry in terms of pricing.

The dial on the Iceborne has always been my favourite part of the watch. The uneven texture has been one of the key factors of its success. Sure, the specs, construction and quality are also present, but it is the attention to detail that won me over and I believe that this particular Lake Pukaki Blue shows it in the best way possible. On my initial impressions with the prototype, I've was completely enamoured with the idea that you did not have to go to high end brands to enjoy quality dials, and nothing has changed here. The guys at Zealandic have one of the crispier dials I've photograph so far. Sometimes the dial reminds of a lake or a frozen ice mountain, whatever you see on that day, the watch will keep interested and not even looking for the time, it is outstanding.

The layout is also functional too, the ''explorer style dial with its numerals provide ease of legibility and orientation, while the chunky hands are distinguishable from the rest of the composition. To aid further with legibility, the Iceborne includes Swiss Super-LumiNova® BGW9 grade A, quite a beauty to see against the matching ice blue dial.

On the wrist

After all the praising, there is always the question of: ''...but does it wear well? '' and the short answer is yes. The proportions are there and while the watch could be classified as a sports piece, the drilled lugs allowed you to add a leather or nylon strap to make it more casual or even sportier. Staying with the wearing experience, is not only about the fit but also legibility, and there are enough elements that makes this watch legible such as the wide hands, and even the logo providing quick orientation on how to read. One of my main concerns was that the pattern on the dial could interrupt the ease of reading the time, but the matte nature of the texture, makes things even easier for the wearer.

The Iceborne is a watch that could be suited to outdoor activities but also to more casual ones, it is simple but also elegant. The bright blue might not be the colour of choice for a dress up event, but in that particular case, you will find 2 other options which are the Burgundy or the Pounamu Green (which was our original prototype), they seem more tamed and easier to pull on a variety of activities but I believe that this particular blue can fit on a variety of collections, it is that good.

A new addition to the Iceborne is the solid 5 link stainless stell bracelet. I was so surprised when I saw it because it not only brings the level of the watch up in terms of quality, but because it also surpasses fit and finishing for watches that are double the price. This new bracelet includes a micro adjustment on the clasp which is outstanding, feels precise and well-engineered and I would definitely add the extra cost to have the watch configure it this way, it really rounds up the GADA moniker. 

Concluding thoughts

As I was saying at the beginning, more than a review, this is a description of a process for acreative process from end to end . I've quite enjoyed seeing what determination can do against the realities to fulfil a dream. The Iceborne to me is a watch that represents a good blend of something unique, well executed at a price that is unheard of. Coming back to this last point, on the metal bracelet the watch cost 400 GBP and yes , it is now sold out but, after this successful launch, Derek is just getting started and we are keen to see what the brand is coming with in the future.

I am sure with the adventurous nature of the brand, a GMT might be in the cards, I cannot imagine an extra hand telling me a different time zone with that design language. Please make sure you are aware by the end of April, a second batch will be available! you read it first here.

For more information, please visit https://www.zealandic.co.nz/products/iceborne-lake-pukaki-blue

Technical Specifications 

Case Material: Stainless steel 316L

Case Diameter: 39mm

Lug to Lug: 47mm (drilled lugs)

Thickness: 12mm

Weight: 74.1 grams (on strap)/150 grams (on bracelet)

Water Resistance: 20 ATM

Lume: Swiss Super-LumiNova® BGW9 grade A

Glass: Double-domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating

Movement: Miyota 9039

Power Reserve: 42 hours

Vibration Frequency: 28,800 VPH

Crown: Screw-down crown

Warranty: 24 months