Nivada Grenchen Antarctic Diver Beads of Rice 32038A04
The first thing you notice when you put the new Antarctic Diver on your wrist is its presence. The impression of quality is enhanced by the solid heft of its universally sized 38mm-diameter (up from 36.5mm), 12.9mm-thick case. Let's just say you can confidently take it on any (underwater) excursion, with plenty of margin. Slim, comfortable, built for any task, whether it's navigating a reef or a cocktail party, it exudes casual chic with that conversation-starting vintage vibe. As far as the overall design of the watch is concerned, it looks exactly like the original, complete with patinaed «cream lattev hands and indexes. To continue the 'blast from the past' look, the Antarctic Diver comes with a generous, easy to read black dial providing a crisp backdrop for the markings, all in the same shape and position and as on the original, including the unmistakable script. The bezel provides precise timing and is easy to use. The date window is located at 3 o'clock. True to the original, the dial comes with the discreet 'red cross hairs'. Back in the day, the buyer could choose between several versions (red or white 'cross hairs'; the numbers 1-12 on the bezel). The reissue honors the iconic version with red cross hairs and the minimalist, non-numbered bezel. The tribute would not be complete without the legendary Nivada Automatic logo at 12 o'clock and Antarctic-Diver in the unmistakable vintage script at six o'clock faithfully echoing the aesthetics of the original. The caseback is engraved with the signature emblem of the Antarctic collection: the profile of a penguin, an allegory of the great cold and a nod to the name of the collection.
Information:
New: Nivada Grenchen Antarctic Diver Beads of Rice 32038A04
Reference: 32038A04
Dated: 2025
Bracelet: Beads of Rice Bracelet - Stainless Steel
Case: 38mm x 12.9mm Thickness x 45mm lug to lug - Stainless Steel
Lug Width: 20mm
Dial: Black Texture Dial w/ Red & White Print + 7401C Luminous indexes, Applied Date Window
Movement: Soprod P024 (Date version) - Automatic
Functions: HMS, Date
Box and Papers: Inner/outer boxes, and warranty card
Crystal: Double Domed Sapphire Glass w/AR Coating
Bracelet size: 7.5"
Condition: New Unworn
Brand History:
Nivada Grenchen, established in 1926 in Grenchen, Switzerland, quickly became renowned for its rugged tool watches that pushed the boundaries of horological innovation. The brand solidified its reputation with the introduction of the Antarctic in 1950, the first waterproof automatic watch. This timepiece gained fame when it accompanied members of the U.S. Navy's Operation Deep Freeze I during their South Pole expedition from 1955 to 1956.
In 1961, Nivada Grenchen launched the Chronomaster, a versatile waterproof chronograph designed for aviators, divers, and sports enthusiasts. The company continued its innovative streak with the release of the Depthomatic in 1964, the first diver's watch featuring a depth indicator, followed by the Depthmaster in 1965, capable of withstanding pressures up to 1,000 meters.
After a period of dormancy, Nivada Grenchen experienced a rebirth in 2018, reintroducing two of its most iconic models—the Chronomaster Aviator Sea Diver and the Antarctic—at the forefront of its revival. The relaunch paved the way for the brand’s enduring appeal among modern watch enthusiasts while honoring its storied heritage.
