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Last year Luminox announced their partnership with the Space Expedition Corporation (SXC). The SXC is part of the current privatization of space travel and is developing craft for commercial space flights. The goal of the SXC is to provide space travel to commercial clients. Each flight will be a pilot and passenger; a truly unique opportunity, for those who can afford it. A cool $100,000 will get you on board one of the hour long flights starting (as of today) in Q4 2014.
They also had announced a line of new watches to accompany the partnership. Luminox, of course noted for their watches worn by Navy SEALs, has developed the line specifically for the SXC Space Project, borrowing on their existing design vocabulary, yet creating a new and distinct look for the brand.
If you cannot afford a flight you might be able to swing one of the SXC Luminox watches. The line was created with feedback from pilots and astronauts and will be on the wrist of each SXC craft pilot and made available to travelers as well. The Swiss made watches are powered by a Ronda 515.24 HH6 GMT movement which will provide 60 months (5 years) of battery life.
The 45mm, 316L stainless steel or carbon reinforced PC cases will come in a variety of finishes and colors, applied to both the case and bezel. Because of an interesting case construction, the steel models can utilize both classic and PVD finishes in a single case, for a dramatic look. Although designed with space travel in mind the watch still has a 200M water resistance rating and like every other Luminox, utilized tritium tubes for reliable luminescence.
Legibility seemed a key factor as the dial features large numerals without much clutter and bold, easily distinguished hands with contrast colors. The GMT utilizes the 24 hour scale on the outer, rotating bezel, allowing for an easy to set second timezone. The watches will have complimenting straps in Cordura, black leather or rubber depending on the model.
The SXC line marks a new segment for Luminox and they have entered it with a very sharp looking watch. It has the rugged tool watch appeal they are known for, and adds some modern lines. It will be exciting to see where this relationship takes Luminox in terms of future designs and collaborations.
by James Enloe
