Isotope initially piqued my interest two years ago with their uniquely design-forward Hydrium “Will Return” dive watch. This timepiece was intentionally crafted to resemble the iconic “Will Return” sign often seen in shop windows, and its ?Why not"? approach left a lasting impression on me. 
Fast forward two years, and Isotope, founded in 2016 by José and Joana Miranda and headquartered in England, has expanded its Hydrium line with the Hydrium California. This watch, like its predecessors, boldly defies the conventions of typical dive watches, drawing inspiration from Isotope’s own heritage as much as from classic dive watches from the past century. 

$1115

Hands-On: the Isotope Hydrium California

Case
Stainless steel

Movement
Landeron Automatic
Dial
Black

Lume
Yes

Lens
Sapphire

Strap
FKM Rubber

Water Resistance
300 meters

Dimensions
40 x 48mm

Thickness
12.9mm

Lug Width
22mm

Crown
Screw down

Warranty
Yes

Price
$1115

When the Hydrium Califonia first arrived the first thing I noticed was its case. The starkly uniform bead-blasted finish, which reduces the risk of unwanted reflections that may attract predators during ocean adventures according to Isotope, immediately let me know I could expect this quirky dive watch to be utilitarian not only by design, but also in practice. 
I eagerly strapped it to my wrist and, despite its generous thickness of 14.9mm, including the double-...