The Blacked Out Tutima M2 Seven Seas S PVD

Tutima is a prime example of a luxury watchmaker from Glashütte that remains relatively accessible (Nomos also ranks highly), with the exception of watches like the recently introduced Patria Small Seconds. The company specializes in retro pilot’s watches like the Grand Flieger Classic Chronograph, modern counterparts like the M2 Coastline Chronograph and many styles in between. Last year’s M2 Seven Seas S was both very capable with a 500-metre depth rating and contemporary with cool yellow or green gradient dials. The latest M2 Seven Seas S PVD is more compact and blacked out, but retains the gradient dial for a cool factor when out of the water.

The previous model was a hefty 44mm in diameter, but this latest piece dials things back to 40mm and is only 12.5mm in height. It’s the first from the series to feature a black PVD (Physical Vapour Deposition) coating, but a couple of regular steel models recently debuted with smaller dimensions. The matte black coating is actually harder than the stainless steel itself, protecting the case from scratches and scuffs. The ceramic unidirectional rotating bezel has contrasting white markings and a detailed 15-minute scale, and the luminescent raised marker at 12 o’clock is also durable ceramic. There aren’t traditional lugs as the case ends are flat for an integrated aesthetic, which translates to an almost midsize feel on the wrist. The signed, guarded crown screws down and allows for a depth rating of 500 metres (same as its larger brother). In addition, there’s a solid case back and 2.5mm thick AR sapphire crystal, so this is a pro diver through and through.

The dial has the same yellow gradient effect as last year’s larger model (yellow dégradé), fading to a greenish hue at the perimeter. Applied, faceted indices pop against the black dial edge and have Super-LumiNova inserts. A white date window tastefully sits at 6 o’clock. The silver, baton-style hour and minute hands also have lume inserts, along with the red lollipop seconds hand with a silver counterweight. Overall, the dial is nigh identical to last year’s model but has a different vibe within the blacked-out case.

Running the show is Tutima’s Calibre 330, which is based on the ETA 2824 automatic. It has 25 jewels and beats at 28,800vph (4Hz) with a 38-hour power reserve. Functions include central hours, minutes, hacking seconds and the date. It’s certainly nothing new and the 38-hour reserve is a bit pedestrian in 2022, but the movement is a proven workhorse that’ll last a lifetime with periodic maintenance. The rotor is decorated with Tutima’s gold seal but concealed behind the case back.

The Tutima M2 Seven Seas S PVD comes on a black leather strap that has dial-matched stitching and a rubber underside for comfort in the water. A black PVD folding clasp allows for quick and easy size adjustments as well. It retails for USD 1,280, which is very competitive for such a capable diver from a storied German brand.

For more information, please visit Tutima’s website.