Swiss brand Delma is making a big splash at the start of 2024 with the launch of its new Midland collection. This watch with an integrated bracelet, inspired by a model from the 80s, combines vintage design and modern technology. A timepiece that could well appeal to fans of affordable sport-chic watches.
A design that revives the 70s trend
The Midland collection is part of the current trend for watches with integrated bracelets, a style that originated in the 1970s and has enjoyed a resurgence in popularity over the past decade. The 40.5 mm diameter stainless steel case features a distinctive angular tonneau shape, with brushed finishes and polished chamfers.
The fixed fluted bezel and screw-down crown at 3 o'clock reinforce the sporty look of the watch, while giving it a water resistance of 100 meters. The flat sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment protects the dial and ensures excellent readability.
Six dials for all tastes
Delma offers the Midland in six distinct dial colors: white, black, salmon, forest green, royal blue and ice blue. All feature a refined pyramid guilloche pattern, luminescent applied indexes and faceted baton hands. The date at 3 o'clock and the red tip of the seconds hand complete this harmonious ensemble.
Particular care has been taken with night-time readability, with the use of two types of Super-LumiNova: blue for the indexes and green for the hour and minute hands.
The choice between quartz and automatic
The Midland collection is available in two versions:
โ Quartz: equipped with the ETA F06.111 movement, offering an impressive 68-month battery life.โ Automatic: powered by the Sellita SW200-1 caliber, a reliable and proven Swiss movement, beating at 28,800 vibrations/hour with a 41-hour power reserve.
The automatic models are distinguished by their transparent caseback, allowing you to admire the movement and its rotor personalized in Delma colors.
A comfortable but improvable integrated bracelet
The three-link stainless steel bracelet is a key element of the Midland's design. Made entirely of solid elements, it offers good wearing comfort and an undeniable feeling of quality. The finishes, alternating brushed surfaces and fine polished chamfers, harmonize perfectly with the case.
However, we can regret the absence of an extension system integrated into the butterfly clasp and the use of friction pins for the removable links. The addition of unilateral screws and a more adjustable clasp would have been appreciated.
Competitive price positioning
The Delma Midland positions itself in an interesting way on the market of watches with integrated straps:
โ Quartz version: $775 (around 720 euros)โ Automatic version: $1,350 (around 1,250 euros)
These prices place the Midland above the entry-level models in the segment, while remaining significantly more affordable than luxury models. It therefore represents an attractive alternative for fans of sporty-chic watches looking for good value for money.
A watch that dares to stand out
With its Midland collection, Delma proves that it is possible to offer a quality watch with an integrated bracelet at a reasonable price. Its 80s-inspired design, its careful construction and its multiple customization options make it an original proposition in an increasingly competitive market.
While some details like the strap could be improved, the Delma Midland stands out as a serious option for those looking for a versatile sporty-chic watch with a strong personality. A timepiece that will not fail to attract the attention of connoisseurs and that could well help to make the Delma brand known to a wider audience.
SRQ Backlot