MICRO MONDAYS: The DWISS M3 is designed for the people, by the people

Nick Kenyon

Buying a watch is rarely something that you do on a random whim. Much like buying a car, it tends to be an extremely considered purchase where you research and agonise over every last detail. In addition, watch collectors also tend to have highly informed (and vocal) opinions over most aspects of a timepiece from the positioning of the date window to the choice of strap material.  What’s brilliant about DWISS’ new initiative is that they’re actively looking to harness that passion.  For their latest project, the DWISS M3, the Swiss brand effectively hosted focus groups that asked around 100 DIWSS Club Members to have their say on the specific design of the new watch. They quizzed the members on everything from the ideal diameter of the case right down to the coloured highlights on the dial. It’s a novel approach that is squarely focused on the end consumer and a determination to give buyers exactly what they want. In short, it’s a refreshingly egalitarian move.

DWISS was founded in 2011 by Rafael Simoes Miranda. A former watch design teacher in Milan, Italy, over the years he’s dreamed up hundreds of watch designs for a variety of brands ranging from Bulova to Timex. He launched DWISS’ debut model, the M1, back in 2011, with their second model the M2 coming five years later. Now DWISS has delivered the M3, a model that features a wearable 42mm stainless-steel case that remains relatively svelte at 11.7mm thick.

Examining the case you immediately become aware of the architectural complexity of its shape, as well as the range of finishings that have been applied to the various surfaces. The raised bezel, stepped crown guards and recessed case sides make for really interesting visual details on a watch with brushed flat surfaces, polished facets and sandblasted case sides.

This adds up to a futuristic form, which takes some inspiration from the steel sports watches of the ’70s, but executes the details in a totally contemporary way. The crown screws down, guaranteeing the watch to a more than adequate 200m of water resistance, driving up the specs of the collection in a big way.

The striking dial features what is being called a “displaced time display” and delivers a profound sense of depth, offering a three-dimensional perspective that isn’t often found on a watch face. Instead of the hands and hour markers that you would usually see, we have three rings of information that indicate the hours, minutes and date.

The date is indicated via a subtle red disc that appears through its corresponding window, while the other rings indicate the time against what are effectively trapezoidal hands. The seconds are shown via a spoked wheel at the centre of the dial, one of which is white to indicate that the watch is running.

It isn’t everyday that you see a bold, new take on indicating the time, but it’s a distinctive point of difference that certainly makes an impression. Powering the DWISS M3 is an ETA 2824-2 Elabore Grade, which means it has been more finely adjusted than the standard grade movement.

Running at 28,800vph, the caliber offers around 42 hours of power reserve, which is more than enough to get you from day to day without the watch running down. The movement is also visible through an exhibition caseback that shows you what limited-edition number your watch is.

The rubber strap that the DWISS M3 arrives on is not only comfortable, it’s secured with a folding butterfly clasp that is released with a double button to ensure there’s no chance it’ll accidentally pop open. The DWISS M3 is also available on an integrated steel bracelet that features the same brushed finish as the top of the case surfaces.

The DWISS M3 is a fascinating proposition, whether you consider the crowd-sourced design process or simply the fresh layout of the dial. While the movement isn’t high horology, it is robust, easy to service and also plays a key factor in keeping the overall price of the watch down. So if you’re in the market for something with a bit of maverick flair, or are simply a fan of highly functional sports watches, the DWISS M3 is certainly worthy of your consideration.

Equally admirable is the sentiment behind it. At a time when many brands seem almost contemptuous of their buyers – whether killing off beloved references or making consumers endure prohibitive waiting lists – it’s brilliant to see DWISS taking the alternative approach. Suffice to say, if more brands treated their fans with similar respect, the watch industry would be a much better place.

DWISS M3 price and availability: 

The DWISS M3 is USD$1,590 on steel bracelet and USD$1,390 on rubber strap. It is limited to 500 pieces and is currently available. For more details, visit DWISS right here.

Made in partnership with DWISS. However, the opinions expressed in this article are our own in accordance with our Editorial Policy.