Aera Instruments is a brand based in the UK that just unveiled their second collection, consisting of incremental updates to their D-1 and P-1 diver and pilot watches. The D-1 Ocean Diver is a blue version of the black watch that debuted last year, and it has a couple of small less visible refinements that improve the overall experience Aera is providing.

The choices they made – what to update, and what not to update – reveal something about where the brand might be heading, and what they deem important. I had a chance to briefly handle the initial D-1 and P-1 releases last year, and while I thought they were completely fine, they didn?t linger in the mind the way some watches do. I?ve been wearing the D-1 for about a week now, though, and find myself really enjoying the subtly complex design choices and distinctly contemporary vibe of this dive watch. 
$1600

[Video] Hands-On: the Aera D-1 Ocean Diver

Case
904L Steel

Movement
Sellita SW200-1 Elabore Grade

Dial
Blue

Lume
Globolight markers

Lens
Sapphire

Strap
Rubber

Water Resistance
300 meters

Dimensions
40 x 49.8mm

Thickness
16mm

Lug Width
22mm

Crown
Screw down

Warranty
Yes

Price
$1600

Notable Specs and Features 
Looking through the spec sheet, the number that will likely jump out at most people right away is the D-1?s diameter: a healthy 44mm. And that?s not the only large number you?ll find when you take your calipers to the case. The lug t...