Introducing: The Isotope HydriumX The Judge

November 25, 2015

Many of you reading this article will not be strangers to Isotope watches. The brands unique diver is back in an all-new colorway and ready to pass judgment. Today, we take a first look at the Isotope HydriumX The Judge dive watch. This brand-new release is the second-darkest offering from the brand in the Hydrium line. And as much as Isotope dabbles in creating some truly colorful watches, theres definitely something about their stark architectural design that suits a less light-hearted livery. Those who agree will find this black and red incarnation of the Hydrium diver to be right up their alley. That s not to say theres anything wrong with the brands boldest offerings. These have proven to be some of the best-selling watches that weve seen from Isotope.Recently, Isotope introduced the HydriumX Blink (shorthand for blue and pink). It was an instant summer hit and didnt last long on the proverbial shelves. In my opinion - and that of more than a couple of editors here at Fratello - nothing quite compares to one of the brands most inspired releases, the HydriumX Will Return. Inspired by will return signs found in small shops known as bodegas in and around NYC, this was one that we hope to see make a comeback someday. In the meantime, you can read all about it here. After that short trip down Isotope memory lane, lets focus on the brands latest offering. Court is officially in session! Presiding, the honorable judge Hydrium.Isotope HydriumX The JudgeWhereas previous offerings from the British microbrand Isotope have worn their Carnaval colors, the new HydriumX The Judge is dressed for court. Jose Miranda, the brands founder, explains that black and red are colors traditionally worn by judges in the UK as part of their uniforms. In suiting up the dive watch with judges colors, Isotope hopes to imbue the watch with the authority of these gavel-wielding agents of the law. But other than a change of uniform, the HydriumX DNA remains. This means that the watch still comes in the distinctive curvaceous micro-blasted 40mm steel case. Its screw-down crown and case back give the watch a 300m water-resistance rating. The bright red sapphire 120-click bezel surrounds a deep black dial. Much like previous models, the bezel remains free of markings, other than a lumed lacrima (a signature of Isotope).#gallery-1 {margin: auto;}#gallery-1 .gallery-item {float: left;margin-top: 10px;text-align: center;width: 33%;}#gallery-1 img {border: 2px solid #cfcfcf;}#gallery-1 .gallery-caption {margin-left: 0;}/* see gallery_shortcode() in wp-includes/media.php */The watchs dial has the same layout as on previous models, with crisp white lume-painted numerals. The hands, with the distinctive shape found in Isotopes HydriumX watches, have the same deep red shade as the bezel. A white lume outline separates them from the darkness of the dial. They remain safe and sound under an AR-coated, double-domed sapphire crystal. Flip the watch over, and youll appreciate the wonderful, deep engravings on the case back. Through its sapphire center, you can also enjoy the nicely decorated Swiss Landeron movement. It provides the watch with automatic winding, a 40-hour power reserve, and an accuracy of 12 seconds per day. The watch is delivered on a 22mm FKM rubber strap and wears comfortably on the wrist despite its 14.9mm thickness (2mm of which is the domed sapphire crystal) and 48mm lug-to-lug.Final thoughtsThe latest offering from Isotope is limited to just 100 pieces, each individually numbered. With its more subdued yet undeniably strong looks, I dont think this model will stick around for long. Pre-orders for the watch are currently open. Finally, price-wise, youre looking at $700 (about $800). So, if youre looking for a favorable verdict, youd better be quick. Otherwise, in the space of time it takes for the gavel to strike, the HydriumX The Judge is sure to be gone. Court adjourned!For more information, please head on over to the Isotope website.