Second generation Australian watchmaking house Adina is well known for pushing the envelope when it comes to what their watches can do. Its fondness for their Oceaneer and Amphibian collections can draw you away for what is often the testing ground of these collections. The Country Master work watch collection is a legend in the Australian Outback.
Each Country Master has been made as tough as they can make them, to not only survive in this hostile environment but to thrive! This model was conceived out of the requirements of underground coal miners to wear mechanical watches. The brand has established a reputation for delivering high quality and functionality whilst being true to its Australian roots. To fully appreciate the merits of the Adina “Underground” Automatic, it’s good to understand the story of the brand, this timepiece and its history.
The story of the Adina “Underground” Automatic watch
The earth has reserved its mysteries for as long as man has roamed. The earliest mines are over 10 000 years old but it wasn’t until the Industrial Revolution spurred improvements in explosives and mining equipment mechanical drills powered by pistons, then compressed air, significantly increased the capability and efficiency of mining hard rock.
Improvements in other mining processes occurred too. Hand-powered loading and hauling were replaced by electric conveyors, mine cars, and vehicles. Steam-driven pumps solved the problem of water inflow. Candles and oil-wick lamps were improved by gas lamps, and eventually battery-powered lamps. Mechanisation and new technology sparked dramatic improvements in mining techniques. As mining became wider spread and went deeper underground, the need for safer work practices began to become a priority. It was a daring feat that saw the Mponeng gold mine hit 4km deep and it was a testament to the miners that were willing to undertake as nobody had successfully descended to such depths in history. Not much was known about the earth and the hostile nature of the environment down there so the need for intrinsically safe watches was born.
Looking deeper at the Adina “Underground” Automatic
The first thing you notice when looking at the face of the Australian specially designed and hand-built Adina Underground is the case shape. As part of the Country Master collection the heptagon shape is a signature ensuring toughness. As stated this model is specifically for the underground miner or for someone who appreciates a watch that can do the lot. The Australian Adina Country Master Automatic ‘Underground’ NK151 S6XB work watch exudes rugged sophistication. Constructed from robust nickel free, marine grade stainless steel, the 38mm case houses the 25 jewel Automatic Swiss Made Ronda R150. The luminous blue index dial whilst providing optimum clarity is also protected by a sapphire crystal. A sapphire crystal glass is well known for its unparalleled scratch resistance. This Adina watch has been equipped with a comfortable yet strong stainless-steel bracelet. The solid stamped bracelet shuts firmly through a 3-fold clasp with safety catch. Being an Australian watch, which will probably spend the weekend out on the water keeping any moisture out is a top priority. Doing that all important job is the 7mm steel bioring crown. Arguably unrivalled for water and dust protection.
The movement
The Adina Underground Automatic is powered by a Swiss Made automatic Ronda R-150 movement with 25 jewels and a power reserve of 41 hours. Functions include hours, minutes, seconds, and date at the 3 o’clock position on the dial. It’s a workhorse that has proven itself for reliability and accuracy.
Price and availability
The Adina Underground Automatic is available through the authorised resellers and the official Adina Watches website. It’s available in a choice of Dark Cerulean blue RRP $799- as featured or the classic white or black with Arabic numerals RRP $699-.
Final thoughts
The Adina Underground Automatic watch is a unique work watch that offers water resistance to a depth of 100 meters. Cutting straight to the heart of it, this is an extremely well-priced watch for what you are getting and considering it is possibly heading one of the most hostile places on the planet. It is a bargain.
