The Nomos Ahoi Atlantic may have a slightly comical name, but it is a serious watch. 200m of depth resistance, see-thru caseback, automatic movement tweaked by Nomos and a sapphire crystal. Good all-rounder width too at 40mm.

In a way, it looks a little bit like a vintage clock, with its sub-second dial and big date window at 6 o’clock. The lume on the markers also give it a wall clock sort of feel. Nomos say they wanted to create a versatile watch, part dress, part weekend scuba diver.

They have covered those bases, but it looks more dress watch. Even the crown protectors look more like discreet shoulder pads from a Hugo Boss suit.

IN-HOUSE MOVEMENT

Nomos are proud of the work they’ve done on the movement, which features their Swing system of escapement, which is slightly different from the typical escapement arrangement in most Swiss autos. It has 26 jewels and is super slim, so it lets Nomos use the DUW 3001 in several models across its range.

You are buying something unique, a German challenger brand if you like. That counts for something if you love the engineering aspect behind the movement. But at £3100 the Ahoi Atlantic looks a bit underwhelming compared to many Swiss, British or Japanese rivals.

Then the resale values. Try selling a Nomos to a jeweller or pawnbroker and see how far you get. They want watches they can sell; Rolex, TAG, Omega, Breitling, Grand Seiko – the usual suspects.

On the upside, the Ahoi is way cheaper than an Omega Constellation, or a Rolex Oyster.

But look at the latest Tudor Black Bay Pro; beautiful steel case, strong resale values, great water resistance and 70 hours of reserve. Plus you get that Rolex-by-association kudos all for £3000.

Verdict; Like buying a Bremont, you buy a Nomos for patriotic reasons or just to be different.