Tusenö first made its mark in the dive watch market with its flagship model, the Blackwater. This model embodied a modern approach to sports watches with an integrated bracelet, drawing design inspiration from historical watchmaking icons. The Blackwater proved itself to be more than just a beautiful watch after being utilized by the Swedish Sea Rescue Society, a volunteer organization with roots dating back to 1907. In keeping with this spirit, Tusenö slightly altered its logo and simultaneously introduced the Shellback model - a rugged and determined diver ready to withstand any storm.
The new symbol of Swedish company Tusenö is called "The Guiding Light." The brand's name itself refers to ancient literature containing sea charts, where the western coast of Sweden is referred to as the "coast of a thousand islands." The new logo resembles a modified sector indicator of a lighthouse. Following the direction of this metaphorical guiding light has led Tusenö into new waters and provided inspiration for expanding its maritime line by creating the Shellback.
The Tusenö team clearly built on what they learned from the Blackwater model, elevating the functionality and design of the Shellback to the next level. These classically styled dive watches have a perfectly proportioned diameter of 39mm with a thickness of just 11.9mm, making them suitable for virtually any wrist size. The combination of a 20mm lug width and a relatively short 47mm lug-to-lug distance further enhances the ergonomics of the Shellback. In line with the new direction, the lineup includes several variants: with or without a date, with black or blue dials, and with a bracelet or strap. This effectively broadens the appeal and allows consumers to truly determine their preferences.
The Shellback's dial retains some aesthetic features of previous Tusenö diver models but significantly differs in luminosity and construction. The depth level achieved is thanks to a two-layer construction called a "multi-layered dial." Essentially, the base layer is generously coated with BGW9 Swiss Super-LumiNova. Another layer, containing apertures at each hour marker and an additional date window, is placed on top. For the Shellback, dials have either glossy black enamel or matte blue finishes. The obsidian sheen of the latter perfectly complements the reflective nature of the 316L surgical stainless steel case. The blue color has a more subdued appearance and changes hue depending on the lighting.
The hands of the Shellback are well luminescent, with the hour hand featuring Tusenö's signature aperture, allowing text on the dial to be visible when transitioning from "5 o'clock" to "7 o'clock." Although this porthole hand is a staple in the diver line, the Shellback's hands have been expanded to accommodate more Super-LumiNova. An additional date window is positioned at "6 o'clock," helping maintain symmetry among the other dot indices. For consistency, lume surrounds this window, making it appear uniform among other indices in low light - a sure sign of forward-thinking design.
The dial is encircled by a fully luminescent chapter ring with heads that subtly hint at nautical charts, depicting a mix of single, fixed, and flashing lighthouse symbols, modified to suit the watch's style. The decision to use ceramic for the 120-click unidirectional bezel ensures exceptional scratch resistance and durability. The ceramic gloss, especially on the glossy black model, matches the overall refractory nature of the Shellback. The engraved markers on the bezel also fully luminesce, causing the watch to glow like a beacon after the lights go out. The dial is securely protected by a double-domed sapphire crystal with AR coating. This dynamic duo of modern materials guarantees that these 200-meter water-resistant watches can serve as a tool in everyday life without wear and damage.
The Shellback is equipped with the automatic Ronda Mecano Calibre R150 movement. It operates at a rate of 28,800 beats per hour and can maintain a 40-hour power reserve, making it reliable for years to come. The precision of the Shellback's manufacturing is not limited to the multi-dimensional dial; it also extends to the crown and case back. Both components are crafted in the previously mentioned "guiding light" style. The large crown (ensuring maximum tactile feedback during winding) is engraved with a star symbol. The screw-down case back is prominently adorned with cast artistic design, making the Shellback enjoyable to view from any angle.
The standard flat-top steel bracelet was designed specifically for the Shellback and tapers from 20mm at the lugs to 18mm at the clasp. In fact, the end links are currently being redesigned to improve articulation and mobility, ensuring a more comfortable fit on the wrist. Considering user convenience, quick-release spring bars and three micro-adjustment holes have also been added.
The pre-order price for the Shellback model, which includes an additional tropical strap and NATO strap, is $649 USD (649 EUR), excluding VAT, and will be available on August 12, 2021. The retail price after the pre-order phase will rise to $795 USD (795 EUR). If you are in the market for functional watches created by enthusiasts for enthusiasts, you are on the right track with the Tusenö Shellback.