The second-generation diver

Our diver has had a very long gestation, dating back to nearly the same time as our original 17.01 and we are proud of the dedication of our team and partners in getting the watch right. This is reflected in its name: generation H, variant 41 of the design study. We have not just improved the mechanical engineering aspect but also updated it with Design Language 2 which we debuted earlier this year with the 27.01 Ultra Thin. The 18.01 H41 is a maximal, robust piece that demonstrates the versatility of our new design language.  

40mm diameter, 12.9mm thick, 1km WR, 65g

This is the largest MING to date and has noticeably more wrist presence than the 17 series; yet for a dive watch with this depth rating, it is amongst the (if not the)thinnest. It is slightly thinner than the Abyss Concept, thanks to new materials and bezel construction.

The case design benefits from both balanced pressure loading and the tensile and compressive strength of grade 5 titanium. An added benefit is a head weight of just 65g, which is vanishingly balanced on the universal bracelet, also in grade 5 titanium.

Functionality and reliability first for diving

It retains the same functional and security features of the Abyss Concept: a unidirectional rotating bezel with 60 clicks that can be turned easily, but not accidentally; multiple sets of gaskets and seals; and an indicator to warn of an unscrewed crown. Even the caseback has a high-friction surface to better grip arm or wetsuit and prevent the watch moving around.

Time is instantly and easily legible, with a timer bezel that has scales that are differentiated into 15-minute segments of reducing prominence. We elected to use a DLC coated solid steel bezel to eliminate the risk of losing an insert due to pressure changes or impact, and to maximize contrast for the timing scale.

There is a significant amount of luminous material applied to ensure visibility under all light conditions: essentially, everything white on the watch is loaded with Super-LumiNova X1; applied as a liquid epoxy to the bezel, a solid block in the hands, and as HyCeram – a sapphire-fused luminous ceramic - on the dial ring. We do not recommend wearing it at night if you are a light sleeper.

Finally, our choice of movement once again prioritizes robustness and serviceability: the same tried and tested ETA 2824-2 top grade, modified to remove the calendar and intermediate hand setting positions.

Continuing partnerships

Once again, we rely on the expertise of our partners to bring our vision to life: La Division du Temps, a subsidiary of Manufacture Schwarz-Etienne for production, assembly and testing; DM Surfaces for the HyCeram in the dial; Jean Rousseau for our waterproof rubber straps and Studio Koji Sato for the new leather travel pouches.