Tusenö gives himself a name on his Shellback V2 Dive Watch. The Swedish brand has been around for ten years this year, but Shellbach has done the most to bring the Tuceno name there. With its cleverly designed details and solid build quality, this diving watch has become a fan favorite in the micro-brand world. We had a hands-on opportunity using two new additions to the Shellback V2 lineup. The first has a bright yellow dial, and the second has a black/gold leaf dial. It’s time to learn more!
These two new shellback models are physical introductions to Tusenö divers. Vincent gave a practical review of the white dial version in early 2024, but I was unable to see the model in metal. With these two new models, we finally got to know if these dive watches are as good as many claims. Without much clarity, there is certainly a lot to be said about the Shellback V2. But we’ll go into it a little more.
Details of the new Tusenö Shellback V2 model
First, let’s explore some specifications and design elements to learn more. These watches have a 13.1mm thick 40mm stainless steel case, a 47mm lug-to-lug and a water resistance rating of 200m. The dimensions allow the Shellback V2 to fit a variety of wrist sizes, making it a joy to wear.
This case has a modern angular profile that is very well complemented by a faceted bracelet. Additionally, both of these shellback V2 versions feature a 120-click unidirectional bezel with polished black ceramic inserts. It features etched markings filled with Super Luminova, so it lights up in the dark. Overall, these elements create a contemporary canvas for the dial to shine.
In the first model, Tusenö paired the almost completely brushed case with a yellow enamel sandwich dial with a semi-metal finish. The second model has a black, high polished enamel sandwich dial with textured gold printing, giving it a very different look from its yellow counterpart.
As explained by Vincent, the dial features some nice details that show how thoroughly the Tusenö people think about their designs. What immediately stands out is how well the date is integrated at 6am. The opening shape is slightly different from the other indexes, but it fits well with the overall style.
A striking amount of room in Shellback v2
Thanks to the sandwich construction, the oversized time markers are bright and bright in the dark. But that’s not where it ends. The white outer rings holding the minute tracks on both dials are also treated in the room, with bright frames even on the date.
Three hands are also filled with the room. As a result, many elements burn like night torches, allowing you to read the time and remaining dive time in low or unlit conditions.
But that’s not where the fun stops. In addition to the long, easy-to-read moments and second hand, the hand for the short time features a circle that is concave towards the hint as you cross the letters of the word “shellback” under the pinion.
This shows why the word is bent at the bottom half of the dial. It looked a bit odd at first, but I’m not a fan of the “smiley” text on the dial in general. But this clever design trick is a great detail that compensates for a different aesthetic.
Reliable movement and modern handy bracelet
Within the case, Tusenö uses the familiar Sellita SW200-1 caliber. The automatic movement runs at 28,800VPH, has 26 gems and offers a 38-hour power reserve. This brand uses Elaboré grade. It is tested and adjusted in three positions and adjusted with an accuracy of ±7-20 seconds per day. It’s the perfect mainstay for moving these diving watches.
Both watches are equipped with well-made, sturdy stainless steel bracelets. It has a three-row structure with diagonal links held together with screws. Furthermore, it can be tapeed well from the 20mm case to the 18mm clasp.
Come to think of it, the clasp comes with a small fine-tuning system, which makes the bracelet easier to size. If you purchase one of these watches during the pre-order period, you will receive an additional black tropic style rubber strap. This can also be seen in some photos. The quick release pin on the bracelet makes it easier to replace due to the strap, and these two comfortable options make the Shellback V2 extremely versatile.
I’m wearing a Tusenö Shellbackv2
Once on your wrist, you understand why the Shellback V2 is a great watch. The size and dimensions are spots, ensuring you sit well on your wrist, and the overall construction feels satisfactory and sturdy.
The bracelet balances the wrist watch and weighs a total of 153 grams, which feels firm, but it’s not too heavy. When the watch arrived, the bracelets were already sized to fit my wrist, but thanks to the Toolless Micro-Adjustment system I was able to fit them perfectly. Another nice detail I didn’t mention is that the clasp has a surface hardening coating (1,200HV) so it doesn’t scratch that easily. That’s a feature I worship because the badly scratched clasp doesn’t look good.
Of the two variations I received, I like the black/guilt model. I’m not a fan of the yellow dial in general, so I’m not drawn to that version. But it’s a matter of personal preference. Nacho, my fellow Fratero team member, quickly preferred the yellow dial. But I think the diversity is amazing. The Shellback V2 collection is currently comprised of eight variations, each with a distinct appeal. The new black dial version with gold details is quick to me, along with the regular black and blue versions.
Final Thoughts on the New Tusenö Shellback V2 Model
Overall, I found Tusenö Shellbackv2 to be impressive. That’s because the dial variation was not only spectacular, but it was my first encounter with Shelbach. It was a great opportunity to feel the watch that has already been impressed by many enthusiasts. After wearing the watch for a week, I fully understand why. They are nicely proportional, have all the modern features you can want, and have great design details that will give them a character. So I think these watches are currently one of the best available watches for under 1,000 euros.
Tusenö currently offers these versions of the Shellback V2 for a pre-order price of 825 euros. Considering what you get for that money, many brands can’t even top it or match it. Furthermore, this summation gives you a watch that doesn’t look like a particular one already there.
The combination of design details ensures that the Shellback V2 has a clear identity. Again, visually it’s comfortable enough to fit the popular diving watch category. The Tusenö Shellback V2 is a perfect, affordable, modern everyday wearer that many fans love.
The complete collection of Tusenö Shellback V2 models can be pre-ordered on the brand’s website. Delivery is expected to begin at the end of 2025. If the watch is in stock, the price will rise to 875 euros.
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