Our Favorite Purple Sunburst
The 40mm Henry Archer Nordsø Neon III 316 features a number of improvements over earlier Neon 316 releases that we really like. All of the Neon 316 dive watches take their name from the extremely colorful outer track, and one of the most welcome changes here is the switch away from less functional half second markings seen on past models. In typical Henry Archer fashion, the color scheme works so well here that we think it speaks for itself. Other improvements include a wider crown for a better grip, female end links for a better fit, quick release pins for easier strap changes, and a quick adjust clasp, which is an especially nice touch. The new clasp is fully milled and allows for convenient tool-less on-the-fly micro-adjustments to the bracelet size.
Great Attention To Detail
You can see some great attention to detail here, from the gnurling on the crown that matches the gnurling on the edge of the bezel, to the mix of finely brushed finishes and mirror polished edges that nicely accent the thin profile. We love the semi-skeletonized hand-set with unusually rounded hand ends and of course the wonderful use of color that makes the Henry Archer Nordsø Neon III 316 both a fun and stylish timepiece.
Engineering to Match
Despite having an automatic self-winding movement and an exhibition case-back, this 200 meter rated dive watch is surprisingly thin, with a slender 10½mm profile that includes the sapphire crystal. Henry Archer didn't cut corners, and it's great to see another scratch resistant sapphire crystal on the back as well, plus no less than six layers of anti-reflective coating. Also included is the brighter, longer lasting, and more expensive premium grade version of blue Swiss Super-LumiNova BGW9 lume.
What's with the Name?
Nordsø is Danish for "North Sea", the sea that lies between Great Britain and Denmark, and is we think a very apt name for a Danish microbrand's dive watch. With an English language alphabet, this can be written as Nordsoe, or sometimes Nordso.
