Thanks to the mix of titanium carbide, stainless steel and sapphire crystal, Nixon Trader can allegedly survive a bomb blast. This is what Nixon claims. Although most definitely neither one of us will test this claims, there are still plenty of reasons to wear this bold looking chronograph. Its exquisite toughness, great functionality and serious masculine design make the Trader one of the most interesting new pieces under $ 1000 range.
A seven-hand quartz movement that powers Nixon Trader guarantees a full package of useful functions. However, an extremely robust, 48 mm case and a dark styling of the watch make all these functions look almost invisible at the first glance, but still pretty readable when a wearer searches for the precise information. A large, open dial comes in black, as well as hour markers. Combined with dark titanium carbide coatings on stainless steel case and bracelet, they give the watch an attractive stealth look. (Compare with Fortis B-42 Black Black Automatic Watch.) By applying hour markers in different shades and shapes, Nixon made a nice aesthetic touch. Markers at 5 and 7 o’clock positions are smartly chosen to indicate day and month, while the forth central hand displays date at the track which is unusually located inside the outer rim. Light central hands are highly legible, as well as striking red chrono hands.
The counter at the 12 o’clock position shows elapsed time with the 1/10th of a second accuracy. Besides, there is the 30 minute chrono sub-dial at the 3 o’clock position, while the 60 seconds sub-dial takes the 9 o’clock position. A round bezel is highlighted with the striking coin edge, making Nixon Trader watch look even more robust. Three oversized pushers and a crown are unconventionally located on the left side of the case. With their bold appearance, they pretty much remind of Fortis watches from the Aviation Collection.
A titanium carbide coated stainless steel bracelet with a solid bar double locking butterfly clasp looks nice and modern. Besides, there is an additional fabric band with a stainless steel buckle for the sportier style. The Nixon Trader Chronograph is protected with scratch resistant sapphire crystal. It has the superb water-resistance up to 200 meters (660 feet), so it can be pretty useful under water, as well.