Hands-On With The New Ianos Dytis Divers

February 28, 2025

Today, we ll go hands-on with the new Ianos Dytis, the final diver in a trilogy of watches from this independent brand. Because of its more compact size, the Dytis may prove to be the most popular yet. This doesn t take away from prior releases, but the trend toward smaller watches is clear.I remember seeing the first Ianos release, the Avyssos (Abyss), at Fratello HQ in 2019 shortly after its introduction. It was an impressive watch for several reasons. The unique design set a trend for the next piece, the Mihanikos, and today s subject, the Dytis. A sub-seconds register, which is uncommon for a diver, became a style hallmark as well as the strap channel on the case back. The Dytis is the last diver in what Ianos has dubbed a trilogy, and if it is truly the end of this genre, it s a great finale.The Ianos DytisSmaller watches have gained traction over the past several years, and Ianos could no longer ignore customer requests. The latest release is the smallest yet at 41mm, whereas previous pieces were 44mm and 43mm. This doesn t mean that the Dytis is small, but it should be more approachable for a wider variety of wrists. The lug-to-lug is also smaller than prior models at 49mm, and the thickness compared to the Mihanikos has dropped by more than 10% to 14mm.Titanium is also an increasingly popular material, and the new Dytis uses a shotblasted Grade 2 variety of the metal for the case and unidirectional bezel. This marks the first time Ianos has used the lightweight grayish material, which results in a supremely comfortable wearing experience. Comfort doesn t mean that capabilities have suffered, though. The depth rating is still considerable at 300 meters.Two dial optionsIanos offers two dial options for the Dytis, and both pay tribute to the brand s Greek heritage. Blue and white, the colors of the Greek flag, are the only visible hues on each dial. One is bright blue, and the other is bold white. Large, luminous indexes recall kampanelopetra diving stones, used by sponge divers as weights. The minute track is also quite distinct, with four luminous dots between each hour marker. On both versions, white Super-LumiNova fills the blue hour and minute hands. Regarding the bezel, Ianos deliberately chose a naked design, aside from a luminous pip, to ensure the dial remains the focal point.The primary feature that separates Ianos from so many other dive-watch brands is the small seconds display. With each watch model, the design has changed. On the Dytis, it has changed again and is fashioned as the evil eye, or mati (?Ӧ) in Greek. This is a good-luck symbol and is meant to ward off evil spirits. That sounds like a good token to have while diving. As an aside, I ve carried one in my luggage for nearly 15 years, and I m still here typing!The strap channel returns, now with fixed strap barsIanos kept its signature strap channel on the Dytis but added fixed strap bars to the lugs. The effect is a more tailored and secure fit. Additionally, note that the case is a monobloc style, which increases the overall robustness.Concerning the straps, each watch comes with a single-pass one in dial-matching rubber and a shotblasted titanium pin buckle. The straps stay on theme and contain a sponge texture.The automatic Sellita SW360-1To achieve sub-seconds functionality, Ianos chose the Sellita SW360-1 automatic caliber. This 31-jewel movement was used in the brand s last model and carries over without change. This translates to a frequency of 28,800vph and a power reserve of approximately 42 hours. Unscrewing the crown hacks the movement and allows for setting and winding.So, how does the Dytis wear?As expected, the Dytis is a supremely comfortable dive watch. The size, lightweight titanium case, and soft rubber straps help it wear like a dream. Plus, the strap channel maintains the watch s true 14mm thickness. The shotblasted finish is also a nice touch. It reduces everything from fingerprints to glare and noticeable scratches. It, along with the brightly colored dials, also gives the watches a very beachy look on the wrist.Distinctive dive watches at approachable pricesThe Dytis is available on the Ianos website for CHF 1,850. It is not a limited edition, but the first 100 pieces of each color will be numbered. Shipping will begin immediately as production is already underway. Overall, these are nicely designed watches, perfect for summer and even as a more casual daily option. Plus, the combination of a lightweight material and a smaller case size should open up the Dytis to a wider range of potential buyers. Finally, the fact that they are inspired by a country not known for watches also sets them apart.Watch specifications Brand Ianos Model Dytis Dial Blue or white with Super-LumiNova indexesCase Material Grade 2 titanium with a shotblasted finishCase Dimensions 41mm (diameter) 49mm (lug-to-lug) 14mm (thickness)Crystal Domed sapphire with antireflective coatingCase Back Monobloc with strap channel and fixed strap bars Movement Sellita SW360-1: automatic with manual winding and hacking, 28,800vph frequency, 42-hour power reserve, 31 jewelsWater Resistance 30 ATM (300 meters)Strap Blue or white rubber single-pass with titanium pin buckleFunctions Time (hours, minutes, small seconds), unidirectional external bezel with luminous pipPrice CHF 1,850Warranty Two yearsSpecial Note(s) Not limited, but the first 100 units in each color are numbered