Bertucci A-2SEL Super Illuminated Field Watch

I'm far more Timex and Casio than Rolex. What I was looking for was a reasonably waterproof, easy to read wristwatch that had good illumination pre-dawn and post-dusk, without any hubcap bulk or weight. My first attempt at a Bertucci was the inexpensive resin case DX-3. With an anemic water resistance rating of 50 meters and less then inspiring lume, it just wasn't what I was satisfied with. Although Bertucci claims “the hands and markers are treated with high performance Swiss Super Luminous material that will intensely glow for hours based on exposure to sunlight or indoor lighting, not requiring a button push” I did not find that the 'super lume' material was particularly super, hardly an intense glow, and not lasting very long at all.

The claim to fame of the Bertucci A-2SEL is the superb backlighting, powered by a dedicated second battery. However, the first example arrived here with a completely dead backlight battery, so I ordered another. The second A-2SEL arrived with no issues. The backlighting is outstandingly good, giving the entire watch face a very pleasing, instantly readable blue glow.

With an attractive stainless steel case, 200 meter water resistance, and the exceptional backlighting in addition to the standard lume paint, it is a featherlight, easy watch to use and to recommend. If you'd like to dress it up a bit, you can of course sub in any 22mm leather band that strikes your fancy more than the supplied nylon band, which I find comfortable as is. I bought mine from Amazon, and the link is here: Bertucci