Review Straum Opphav - First impressions
So it finally arrived and I can genuinely say the 2 month wait was worth it. My passion for quality microbrands has been vindicated as this is a truely gorgeous watch (despite my poor attempts at photography!).
Watch: Straum Opphav Damascus #101
The Dial - its deep. It literally draws you in like staring into the abyss. I have in the past spent time diving around the world and was lucky enough to go Ice-diving in Swizerland back in the 90's. The suface of this lacquered dial reminds me of the underside of ice looks as light passes through it. The manner in which the ripples draw you to the centre of the dial is mesmeric. This is not hyperbole, this dial really is that good.
There's also something I've noticed about the dial that I haven't heard anyone else mention, it's extemely subtle but there nontheless and that is that the dial is actually made up of two shapes. There is the circle of the rippled dial itself, then there is the applied indices which, when viewed in total darkness and fully lumed form a hexagonal shape which encompasses the circular shilouette. Whether this was intentional or not, I don't know, but I would really love to hear from any other Opphav owners to see if they've seen this affect too (or if I'm bonkers). Lastly, and owners of the Opphav I'm sure will confirm, the central dial Hovers over the chapter ring, it's like the waves of frozen ice are suspended in etheral haze... wonderful stuff.
The Case - I've spent this morning reviewing the case under my lupe and I have to say the Damascus steel is unlike anything I've ever seen. Like a dripping water tap when you do notice it, it's hard to stop noticing... To the touch there is a difference to anything you've had from 316 or 904, it's textured. You can feel the acid markings under your skin. Add to that that each case is unique in it's pattern and have a point of interest and conversation starter that's hard to beat
The reverse of the case too, quite unique. The raised sides of a Fjord with the Straum half S appearing out of the mists is reminiscent of the prow of a Viking longboat (with my Irish/Viking heratige this speaks to me in ways I cannot describe yet). Valhallah they are coming!
First impressions - This is a classic gentlemans dress watch with all of the quiet understatement a true gentleman desires. It's design finish is outstanding in this price bracket and I am delighted to add it as a highlight to my collection.
I have work to do so I'll leave it at that for now, but I'll be back to add more to my review soon!
Review Straum Opphav - First impressions
Yes
No
- Elegant
- Quietly masculine
- Brilliant design and excellent finish
- Snap on back for the case
Bought my first watch aged 12 when on holidays when all the other kids spent their money on sweets, I just wanted a watch.
Now this is a company not following the heard!
Finally, a watch with no flaws whatsoever.
Interesting to think about watch makes it masculine. I've never really considered what 'masculine features' are in watch terms before 🤔. What do you see as them being in this piece?
Interesting to think about watch makes it masculine. I've never really considered what 'masculine features' are in watch terms before 🤔. What do you see as them being in this piece?
Masculinity has been under fire for years now and the vast majority of men have simply ignored the nonsense and just quietly got on with it. That to me is "quiet masculinity". It's not flashy, it's dependable. It doesn't seek the limelight yet probably deserves it, it's depth requires more than a single glace. I'm sure other men will see things differently but that's how I see it.
Finally, a watch with no flaws whatsoever.
Well that snap on case back is not to my tastes, but it doesn't take away from the good in the rest of the watch. The Glass is half full imo
Masculinity has been under fire for years now and the vast majority of men have simply ignored the nonsense and just quietly got on with it. That to me is "quiet masculinity". It's not flashy, it's dependable. It doesn't seek the limelight yet probably deserves it, it's depth requires more than a single glace. I'm sure other men will see things differently but that's how I see it.
Very interesting insights.
I find it fascinating how we imbue objects with certain qualities and either will or won't wear them based on whether we feel they reflect our values. And equally we will have a tendency to judge others on what they choose to wear also.
I don't really feel in a position to comment on masculinity, but in my experience it (and also gentlemanliness, if that's a word!) has been more to do with an individuals demeanor and interactions with others (I think the gen-z's call it 'energy') than any object.
Anyway, a nice watch with a pretty dial, certainly.
🍻
Lovely piece indeed! Does it have a ghost date position?
That is a good looking watch, I particularly love the hands and the rippled dial.
Lovely piece indeed! Does it have a ghost date position?
According to their website, the movement is a Sellita SW-200-1 b (no date).
Lovely piece indeed! Does it have a ghost date position?
As godust said: nope, the SW-200-1 doesn't have a Ghost, sorry for the late reply!
Great looking piece. I love this site in that i learn and see sbout so many watches and brands I have never heard of.
I just received the green version with Damascus case. I’m just starting my collection and this is my first watch. I like the watch very much!