Watch Académie Automatic California ACY 1103

Limited Edition of 100 pieces.

The Watch
Franco-Swiss watchmaker Ralf Tech introduces a sleek new vintage-inspired model, nicknamed "zero erreur". This new timepiece from the Académie collection is defined by its elegant 1930s style and its "California" dial - renowned for its unmatched legibility. The 41 mm case, 14.5 mm thick, is crafted in surgical-grade stainless steel (316L) with polished and satin finishes - a material celebrated for its rigidity, durability, and hypoallergenic properties. This "California" watch is topped with a highly domed anti-reflective sapphire crystal - known as a "chimney" crystal - that lends the watch a distinctly retro spirit. The crown is screw-down at 3 o'clock. The case back is also screwed down to ensure water resistance, and features an engraving with the watch's individual serial number.

The Dial
The round dial of this watch features a dark brown matte finish for excellent legibility. Two bold luminescent silver-tone hands mark the hours and minutes, while a slimmer hand sweeps through the seconds with fluid precision. The hallmark charm of this dial lies in its luminescent Roman numeral indices (SuperLuminova CVB treatment) rendered in a soft pale yellow. These Roman numeral indices are harmoniously blended with Arabic numeral indices, also in luminescent pale yellow. A minute track runs along the outer edge of the dial within a matching-color ring. The brand name appears at 12 o'clock.

The Movement
This timepiece houses an automatic self-winding movement RTA003 based on the NH36 caliber, with a theoretical power reserve of 42 hours. Offering excellent shock resistance thanks to Incabloc technology, this 24-jewel caliber delivers outstanding reliability with a frequency of 21,600 vph (3 Hz).

The Strap
This magnificent watch comes in a vintage calf leather travel case. It also includes two straps, offering both a classic-meets-vintage elegance and a sporty, adventure-ready look. The first strap is in satin-finished vintage calf leather in chocolate, with beige stitching that harmonizes beautifully with the dial indices. The second strap is a "tropic" silicone strap with 22 mm lug width, perfect for sport. Both straps fasten with a silver-tone pin buckle.

Water Resistance
With a water resistance of 20 atmospheres - equivalent to 200 meters - this model can confidently be called a dive watch. A quick note on semantics, though: our watchmaking experts agree that while this timepiece is more than capable of handling showers, baths, swimming sessions, and freediving, it is not designed for professional scuba diving with tanks, where the pressure would exceed its water resistance rating. For our professional diver friends, we recommend looking at models rated 30 atmospheres and above. We also recommend keeping all pushers and the crown dry while in the water to maintain a perfect seal.