Timely underground craft
ADINA has mastered the art of making automatic ( mechanised) watches for the Australian underground mining industry.
Created as a result of demand for a watch that would be used in some of the harshest environments known to man, without fear of accidental ignition from cell or battery- powered digital units, the Adina NK151 Underground Countrymaster collection also boasts rugged sophistication and stylish looks.
Old school watchmaking and modern ideas ensure this watch is up to the onerous task it has been set.
Sapphire crystals are employed in the time pieces, with automatic needles and a clear back so that safety officers can verify that they are mechanical.
Made of steel, they are made flat so as to avoid being accidentally caught in minesite fixtures, with the glass on top recessed a little bit lower than normal.
A threefold catch is built into the bracelet to ensure the watch does not come loose during operations.
Components are also screwed down tight to ensure the timepieces can withstand extreme vibrations.
Adina was founded in 1971 by Australian watchmaker and current managing director Robert ‘ Bob’ Menzies, who had a dream of creating a watch capable of withstanding the rigours of the Australian lifestyle.
After months travelling the world sourcing premium components and advanced technology, he returned home to begin assembling his first watch collection.
In a small storeroom in his family home, he designed and crafted each watch by hand, painstakingly ensuring the quality through an ever- fixed eyeglass.
This attention to detail and culture of hard work remains at the core of Adina’s business today.
Adina now remains the only company to design and assemble its complete watch collection in Australia.
Today, the business has grown from one dedicated man to a staff of 20, including Bob’s son Grant, building the craft of quality Australian watchmaking through the generations.
Each year Adina produces more than 40,000 artisan watches from its Brisbane factory, available in over 300 retail outlets across the country.
Through quality craftsmanship and evolving design, Adina has made a history of specialising in limited release watch collections.
The brand remains a stronghold in regional Australia, where Adina watches are trusted to endure the outback’s harsh conditions.
The beginning of every Adina watch starts with the humble pen and paper.
Hand- drawn sketches, inspired by elements of the urban and natural environment, form the foundation of every unique Adina watch design.
The artistry is combined with CAD drawings, engineering expertise and the latest machine technology to ensure each component is created to the highest standard.
A range of techniques are used to create our iconic models, from sandblasting or mirror- finishing the case and bracelet, to stamping or etching the face background.
The Australian Mining Review is offering readers a chance to win an Adina underground watch — visit the website for entry details: http://australianminingreview.com.au.