Ressence debuts the luminous new TYPE 5 L, the latest sporty addition to their diving line. “L” in this case stands for “luminova”, where the dial, cloaked in a full Super-LumiNova inlay, emits a strong glow in low-light conditions.

“This new beamer and the latest addition to our line of mechanical watches is both a tool watch and a conversation starter, with its superior legibility and unique design,” said Benoît Mintiens, Founder of Ressence, in a statement. “It’s more than just functionality; the robust TYPE 5 Luminescent provides a sense of quiet assurance and uniqueness to its wearer, making it a true companion for any endeavor.” 

The luminous dial of the TYPE 5 L is complemented by the brand’s signature features such as the oil-filled chamber for improved readability and rotating bezels for precise time tracking. The body, made from Grade 5 titanium, ensures durability while maintaining a lightweight profile. Plus, it’s dive-ready.

The glowing innovation of luminescence

We’ve come a long way from radium-painted dials ever since watches became rad-free in 1993 upon the introduction of Super-LumiNova. This non-radioactive, phosphorescent material was a breakthrough. A substance that would emit a glow for hours upon exposure to light? And more importantly, safe? The watch industry said sign me up.

Today, advanced variants of Super-LumiNova and other proprietary luminescent materials create timepieces that are not only functional in low-light conditions but also aesthetically striking. These watches feature dials entirely coated with luminescent material, ensuring they shine brightly in low-light conditions — cue IWC’s Ceralume Chronograph and Bell & Ross strapping the BR-X5 in a glow-in-the-dark catsuit, including Panerai’s latest Elux LAB-ID that lights up with the push of a button.

Yet, Ressence isn’t one to sleep on clever Super-LumiNova designs. For instance, take into account the TYPE 1 DX3, a special Dubai Watch Week release in 2023 that they created in collaboration with Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons. In low-light conditions, the cloisonné design emits a gentle green glow, revealing a mosaic-like pattern filled with grade A Super-LumiNova.

Ressence’s most luminous TYPE 5 dive watch

Meeting the rigorous ISO 6425 standard for underwater exploration, the TYPE 5 L is water-resistant up to 100 meters (10 ATM) and has passed tests for magnetic and shock resilience. Its robust Grade 5 titanium construction ensures durability while maintaining a lightweight profile. The case is also fit with a unidirectional rotating bezel with an easy-to-grip tactile design.

Over on the back, it’s secured with the Ressence Compression Lock System (RCLS), a mechanism that allows wearers to secure the compression gasket for effective waterproofing with two settings: ‘lock’ and ‘set’. Here’s what happens: This system employs a bottlenecked oil flow mechanism, where blades beneath the runner disc generate a controlled flow of oil through small apertures. When the watch experiences a shock, the oil flow intensifies, surpassing the capacity of these apertures. This increase in hydraulic friction effectively slows the rotation speed of the runner disc, mitigating the impact.

The runner disc is linked to the rest of the watch through a series of gears. This system plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the ROCS (Ressence Orbital Convex System) and prevents the uncoupling of magnets within the watch. By keeping the components securely connected, the shock absorption mechanism significantly enhances the watch’s resilience against impacts and vibrations.

The TYPE 5 L is available globally via Ressence’s official retailer network. 

Tech Specs: Ressence TYPE 5 L

Movement: Automatic-winding patented ROCS 5 module; 36-hour power reserve
Functions: Hours and minutes; 90-second counter; oil temperature
Case: 46mm × 15.5mm; grade 5 titanium; water-resistant up to 100m
Dial: Engraved indications and dial filled with green Grade A Super-LumiNova®
Strap: Steel or rubber
Price: CHF 34,500 (excl. taxes)