MICRO MONDAYS: Typsim Watches go all in on vintage with the 200M & 200M-C

Ricardo Sime

How do you make enough noise in the large microbrand watch scene to be noticed? Do you ride a wave, presenting a design collectors have seen countless times? Do you offer dirt-cheap pricing that leaves many of us wondering how long you’ll even be here? Or do you make something so “unique”, no one would even wear it? Well, Typsim Watches took the none of the above approach with their inaugural collection, a pair of more than just vintage “inspired” divers in the shape of the 200M and 200M-C.

Based out of Seattle, Typsim is a new microbrand focused on making quality sports watches. Think of the military spec watches of the past and you’ll have a good idea of their mindset when creating a reference. In fact, their name is a combination of two abbreviations; TYP for typical and SIM for similar. With this in mind, it’s easy to see where they are going with the 200M and 200M-C.

Let’s start off with the measurements. The watches come in a 39mm width at the case yet 41mm at the bezel, which flares out. Thickness is 13.4mm and the lug-to-lug is only 47.5mm. Together, these dimensions reflect a diver that should fit well on the vast majority of wrists.

In terms of finishing, the case is predominantly brushed while featuring a polished chamfer running down both sides. To bring home its sporty appeal, these lugs (20mm in width) are also drilled, making for easy strap changes. Finally, the case allows for 200 metres of water resistance, aided by a large, easily manipulated crown. So far, Typsim is delivering the goods on their sports watch.

From there, we make our way to the front of the watch. There are definitely Rolex military 5513/0 vibes here with sword hands and a coin-edge bezel leading us in that direction. However, the similarities end there. The bezels on the 200M and 200M-C are covered with optical acrylic and are lumed. The use of the acrylic also extends to covering the dial. Here it is domed, which should allow for some beautiful distortion. Upon that, you will find a piece of glass for date magnification.

One thing I must note is the special compound Typsim is using here for lume. The compound, unlike modern lume, will actually age. Over time, it will go from white, to a creamy-to-yellow hue. There is no toxic material being used to accomplish this.

For that dial, Typsim gives us circular indexes, with larger sizes at six, nine and twelve. It’s a different look from most of the divers out there and differentiates the 200M and 200M-C from the herd. You’ll also notice one of the main differences between these two references here, as the 200M features silver bordered indexes and the 200M-C has gilt. Which begs the question, why?

Well, that all has to do with the movement inside. The C in 200M-C stands for chronometer, which the movement within, is regulated to. That movement is the Sellita SW300-1 and it was chronometer certified by the Besancon Observatory in France. This means ISO 3159 standards with the additional requirement of meeting these standards while cased. Of the 300 total watches that will be produced, only 50 will be 200M-Cs. Beyond the certification, the Sellita 300-1 in both the 200M and 200M-C still beats at 28,800 bph and offers 42 hours of power reserve.

To complete the overall vintage look, Typsim Watches have placed both the 200M and 200M-C on a beautiful five-link riveted bracelet. Two of the links are polished with the other three being brushed. When ordering, you’ll have the option of either adding a tropic strap or an Erika’s Originals MN strap.

Overall, the 200M and 200M-C from Typsim are a great addition to all the microbrand divers out there. The small touches like the riveted bracelet, the lume that naturally ages and the use of acrylic really showcase the brand’s attention to detail. Yes, some may not like the use of acrylic as it can scratch easier than sapphire, however one must also note, scratches on acrylic are much easier to buff out. With that being said, the package being presented here is still compelling and should have anyone buying into the brand quite happy with their choice.

Typsim Watches 200M & 200M-C Price and Availability:

Both watches are available for pre-order, at pre-sale pricing, as of the publishing of this article. Deliveries are expected in June 2022. The 200M is $1099 USD and the 200M-C is $1699 pre-sale. After November 9th, both prices will increase by $100 USD and will not include an extra strap.

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