INTRODUCING: The Baltic Bicompax Pulso made for Revolution and The Rake

INTRODUCING: The Baltic Bicompax Pulso made for Revolution and The Rake

Ricardo Sime

As far as microbrands are concerned, Baltic is slowly reaching iconic status. There was a strong showing at this year’s Pink Dial Project auction for breast cancer awareness, research and cure. That was followed by Only Watch, where a proverbial who’s who of brands presented amazing offerings. Their Pulsomètre Chronographe Monopusher nearly tripled the high estimate there. Between these two results, Baltic has solidified its place as one of the hottest microbrands out there. Yet, unlike other brands who would use such a position to squeeze you for everything you’ve got, Baltic is still making some pretty affordable offerings. If you need proof of this, look no further than their latest offering. Introducing the Baltic Bicompax Pulso made for Revolution and The Rake.

Baltic Bicompax Pulso

I know some of you may be looking at this an saying “Hey. That watch looks similar to the one auctioned off at the Pink Dial Project.” Well, yes, it does. But there is a reason for that. That watch was in many ways a prototype to this release. From that watch, brand owner Etienne Malek and Wei Koh of Revolution continued to work on the design with the culmination of that work leading to this watch. Let’s take a closer look.

Starting with the case, we’re given a very classic design with a classic size to match. The watch is only 36.5mm with a lug-to-lug near 45mm. Thickness comes in at 12mm, which includes a high domed hesalite crystal. Its finishing is a mixture of mostly brushed surfaces with polishing used as a trim on the bezel as well as on the pusher and crown. Finally, the case is rated to 50 metres and has drilled lugs for easier strap changes.

Moving in from the case, we arrive at the pièce de résistance; the dial. Here, Baltic truly shows some amazing work. First, there are the hands. All are mirror polished and as such should provide great legibility. Second, are the multiple finishes used. A sandy texture used at the centre and periphery of the dial, with a circular brushed portion sandwiched between them. The subdials have been finished in a circular pattern as well, with all this done in a beautiful salmon colour. Finally, there is the icing star on top, Revolution’s 3D star logo near the center. All together, these elements lead to a cohesive, classically styled dial.

Hidden behind that dial and a sterile caseback is the Seagull ST1901 manual winding chronograph movement. It is based on the swiss Venus calibre 175 movement. It beats at 21,600 bph and provides 42 hours of power reserve. For Baltic, it was important they used this movement because of it’s slim profile. However, the movement has a hit or miss track record; something Baltic addresses head on. By casing and preparing the watches themselves, they are able to QC the movements long before they arrive at your doorstep.

The last aspect of the design that brings the package together is the strap. It’s a 20mm leather strap that tapers down to 16mm at a signed buckle. The dark brown colour pairs well with the salmon colour dial. Normally, I would have liked colour matched stitching, which would draw your attention to the dial. But here the cream coloured stitching comes close to the colour of the dial, which I am happy to see.

Overall, the Baltic Bicompax Pulso made for Revolution and The Rake is a great watch. At a price significantly less than $1,000 USD, it’s a no brainer for anyone looking for a thin, classically styled, salmon coloured chronograph. Especially from a microbrand that is on a long hot streak. Furthermore, it’s a collaboration that doesn’t scream collaboration (a la anything Supreme touches). If you have a chance to pick one up, I highly suggest you do.

Baltic Bicompax Pulso

Baltic Bicompax Pulso Collection Price and Availability:

The Baltic Bicompax Pulso is currently available from the Revolution Shop website. Only 250 pieces will be released. Pricing is $670 USD

UPDATE: All 250 pieces have been sold.