I first saw the new Nivada F77 Black Ceramic at this year’s Geneva Watch Days. This was probably one of the earliest prototypes, if not the first, and took some time to catch on. Let me explain. Ceramic watches look like PVD/DLC coated to the naked eye. That is until you pick it up. The unmistakable feel of ceramic is unlike any coating I’ve seen in the industry. I needed to get a ceramic F77, so I asked nicely and Nivada delivered it to me.
I’ve been a fan of F77 since its first release. Yes, I know people like to compare it to other brands’ iconic integrated bracelet models, and that’s okay. It’s a bit of an outdated argument at this point, but whatever makes sense to you is fine. Since its initial release, I had the pleasure of reviewing both the original model and the stone dial version earlier this year. In a way, this new F77 Black Ceramic is a continuation of those. Let me explain.
Nivada F77 Black Ceramic
The fact that the F77 is a reissue of a past Nivada watch is not news. However, the company did not produce a ceramic F77 at the time. There were no ceramic models. So, at the very least, the new F77 Black Ceramic is a milestone model for this historic Swiss brand. Furthermore, it is a new case material following steel and titanium. Is that the right next step? I’ll leave this to you to decide. Brands like Nivada have to push the boundaries with things like case materials. We were led to believe that because ceramic manufacturing is expensive, only watches priced in the five digits and above should be able to enjoy this privilege. As always, the truth is more complicated than that.
This topic is more complex than a single paragraph in my article. You also want to avoid getting drawn into arguments about building a case with specific materials. What I’m saying is that the ceramic F77 is an exciting new approach and I’m excited to see it offered. Getting to the point, Nivada isn’t the only brand to bring affordable ceramic models to market. Think of the new Maurice Lacroix Icon Automatic Ceramic, many Rado models, and even the Longines Hydroconquest. Ceramic is here to stay and has finally reached a new price point, so we should celebrate it. The rest is up to us as consumers.
basic
So let’s take a look at the basics of the new Nivada F77 Black Ceramic. For the most part, this new model is identical to the original F77. In terms of size, the case diameter is 37mm and the length is 45mm. Remember, the original F77 from the 70’s was much larger. When creating the reprint, the brand reduced the diameter by almost 2mm. The thickness is less than 13mm, which is sufficient for an automatic watch. It’s not too thick and fits perfectly on your wrist. Like some versions of last year’s first model, the new Ceramic F77 features an undated layout. Three Super-LumiNova-treated hands rotate on a black “braided” dial with polished indexes and small luminous dots. There are other options (see below for details). Finally, the bracelets on both cases have been integrated with minor changes. Let’s go back and look at that first.
bracelet
This new F77 has a ceramic case and bracelet, which to the naked eye looks just like steel. However, there are some adjustments. The steel version has a Nivada branded single deployment clasp with a micro-adjustment hole and push-button release. The ceramic F77 also has a button, but this time it’s a double deployment (butterfly) clasp with no logo or tweaks. This also means that you need to be very precise when adjusting the size of the bracelet, as there is no room for free adjustment. The second thing, and something that might bother you even more, is the design of the end links.
The steel model had end links with a partially articulated section in the middle. However, in F77 Black Ceramic, each endlink is one T-shaped piece. As a result, the end links protrude more, increasing the amount of time the watch feels on your wrist. My wrists are thick so it’s not a problem. However, if your watch is on the smaller side, try holding it in your hands before ordering. Last time I was in London, I brought a ceramic F77 to show to Mike, whose wrist is much smaller than mine. Despite the end link, he loved it on his wrist.
movement
Inside the new F77 Black Ceramic is Soprod’s P024. Based on the ETA 2824-2, this caliber offers a 38-hour power reserve, hacking seconds, 25 jewels, and 28,800 vph. It’s a reliable movement that gets the job done, but maintenance is easy enough that it’s not an issue for most watchmakers. Note that movements like the Soprod do not represent the pinnacle of watchmaking. In fact, they are workhorses, even though they are not more expressive. There’s little decoration, but the F77 has a steel caseback, so that’s not an issue. On the other hand, it is a cost-effective option, which helps keep prices down and brands like Nivada can offer very competitive watches.
Good things to know
Apart from the woven dial, Nivada has launched the F77 Black Ceramic with two other dial options. Full disclosure, I have never seen these in person, except when they were offered in the steel F77 model a few months ago. The black ceramic case is complemented by a lapis lazuli and meteorite dial. Both versions are breathtaking in person. It looks just as great, if not better, in a ceramic case. The braided version I received for review is a regular production model, but both stone dials are limited edition and will only be available for a one-month pre-order period. One last thing we need to talk about is price. Nivada offers the regular F77 black ceramic model for 1,370 EUR / 1,450 USD. For the limited stone dial edition, you’ll have to shell out a few hundred dollars more.
I’ve been wearing this watch for almost a few weeks now and was very happy with how it felt on my wrist. The matte black finish isn’t “flashy” and doesn’t attract much attention. Weight distribution is also appropriate. Please note that the black case and bracelet may make it feel smaller on your wrist than the steel model. At least, this was my observation. Yet it’s comfortable and easy to read. Regular models are in stock and can be shipped, but limited production models will be shipped around February. You can check out other variations and find more information here.
What do you think about the F77 Black Ceramic and ceramic watches in general? Are you happy that they are becoming more accessible? Share your thoughts in the comments section.
