If you regularly read ONEWATCH, the Milus Archimèdes watches should be familiar to you. Already available in classic black and blue versions, as well as a modern and technically appealing silver model, these watches are direct descendants of the 1970s Super Compressor dive watches… A style not often seen but undoubtedly one of the coolest types of sports watches in the world. This year, just in time for summer, the brand expands its collection with a very limited model featuring a dial that unmistakably reflects the 1970s, in a vibrant and bold orange color. And something very cool with coral conservation. Here is the new Milus Archimèdes Orange Coral.
The modern Milus Archimèdes did not appear unexpectedly. It reproduces in a more contemporary style the look of one of Milus's most collectible models - the late 1960s - early 1970s dive watches with the typical Super Compressor architecture. Referencing Archimedes of Syracuse, the ancient mathematician known for Archimedes' principle (forces acting on a body immersed in fluid), Milus offered watches under the name Archimèdes in the 1960s, such as with the article number 666 - due to water resistance up to 666 feet.
Soon after, the brand began offering watches with the typical Super Compressor case made by Ervin Piquerez (EPSA). The latter patented this case without an external bezel and with two crowns on the right side. Essentially, it was a case with an innovative system that became more and more waterproof as the watch descended deeper and deeper, and as atmospheric pressure increased (gradual compression of the gasket to full hermeticity).
Based on this attractive 1970s design, Milus reissued its Archimèdes diving watches last year, first in a collection of classic colors - dark gray and blue, and at the beginning of this year - a technical, less vintage silver version. Today, the fourth version of the Milus Archimèdes is presented, and this time it features a striking dial. But these watches are not just watches, they are connected with corals… but more on that later.
The new orange Milus Archimèdes model retains all the attributes of previous releases, at least in terms of proportions and technical specifications. In shape and style, the case is typical of vintage compressor watches: 41 mm diameter, ultra-wide dial opening combined with a thin polished bezel, and, as often in these watches, elongated lugs. The case, except for the crown and bezel, is completely matte, giving the watch an instrumental look, and is equipped with a sapphire crystal with an ultra-high dome, enhancing the vintage look.
Nevertheless, it has been designed with modern technical requirements in mind: water resistance of 300 m and a helium release valve discreetly inserted into the case rim at the “9 o'clock” position. The back cover is made of sturdy steel and screws down.
The Milus Archimèdes watches, modeled after the Super Compressor watches of the past, as expected, are built on the principle of a dual crown. Both crowns screw down, and each performs its function. The crown at the “4 o'clock” position is used to set the time and wind the movement. The other crown, located at the “2 o'clock” position, operates the internal bidirectional 60-minute bezel. While this may not be the most practical type of watch for diving, especially underwater, in terms of appearance, they remain among the coolest. Overall, the case seems very well put together and sturdy, as a diving tool should be.
The main feature of these Milus Archimèdes Orange Coral is the dial, treated with bright and bold orange lacquer, with a glossy surface. The watch makes an indelible impression and cannot go unnoticed. It is colorful, rich, and very noticeable… yet quite cool, and the orange color is well integrated into the rest of the watch, especially combined with the matte and black inner bezel, painted white Super-LumiNova markers, and metallic matte hands with a broad arrow profile.
Under the back cover lies the renowned ETA 2892 movement, known for its accuracy and durability. The automatic caliber with a long track record beats at 4 Hz and holds a power reserve of about 42 hours when fully wound. It displays hours and minutes, hacking seconds, and a semi-permanent date at the “3 o'clock” position. Here it is presented in the top class (A2) with blued screws and perlage.
The Milus Archimèdes Orange Coral comes with two straps, both equipped with quick-release spring bars (no tool required for removal). The first is a mesh stainless steel strap that pairs well with the Super-Compressor look. The second is a classic, tropical-like black rubber strap that enhances the 1970s image.
Availability and Price (and Extra Services)
The Milus Archimèdes Orange Coral is released in a limited edition of 50 pieces and is available through the brand's online store here. The price is 2,119 Swiss Francs (including taxes).
However, the Archimèdes Orange is not just a watch. Indeed, by releasing this limited series, Milus emphasizes its commitment to coral reef protection. For each watch, the brand donates an amount that helps save a coral, which will be adopted and named after the future owner. They will receive a personalized certificate issued by the Coral Guardian association. This non-profit organization, bringing together scientists and marine life advocates, has developed a coral transplant program. To combat their disappearance, it gradually restores coral ecosystems in less threatened areas.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS – MILUS ARCHIMÈDES ORANGE CORAL
Case: 41 mm diameter - stainless steel Super Compressor style case, matte and polished - dual screw-down crown - domed sapphire crystal with AR coating - screw-down back cover - helium release valve at 9 o'clock - water resistance 300 m
Dial: orange lacquered polished dial, painted baton markers SLN, wide matte metal hands with SLN, bidirectional internal 60-minute bezel in black
Movement: ETA 2892-A2 - automatic - 21 jewels - 28,800 vibrations/hour - 42-hour power reserve - hours, minutes, seconds (hacking), and date
Bracelet: Presented with a mesh steel bracelet and a black rubber strap, both with 20 mm clasp and quick-release spring bars
Availability: Limited to 50 pieces
(for each watch Milus collaborates with the French NGO Coral Guardian. For each purchased Archimèdes Orange Coral, Milus will adopt a coral named after you)
Price: 2,119 SWISS FRANCS