Nodus Sector II Field Titanium Tropical

In the competitive landscape of independent watchmaking, Los Angeles-based Nodus has steadily carved out a reputation for creating purpose-built timepieces that balance thoughtful design with robust functionality. The brand's Sector Series embodies this philosophy, serving as a versatile platform for various watch genres. The latest evolution of this collection arrives in the form of the Sector II Field Titanium Tropical, a limited-edition model that pushes the field watch concept into a modern, materials-focused territory. This new release is not merely a color variation but a comprehensive rethinking of the watch's tactile and visual identity, leveraging advanced materials to create a compelling tool for contemporary adventurers.



Established in 2017, Nodus operates with a clear objective: to design and produce watches built for specific purposes. The company's name, derived from the Latin word for a node or intersection, reflects its approach of blending different pathways of design, engineering, and material science. A defining characteristic of the brand's operational model is its commitment to hands-on quality control. While utilizing a global supply chain for components, the final and most critical stages of creation—assembly, regulation, and testing—are all conducted in their Los Angeles workshop. This ensures that every watch leaving their facility meets a stringent performance standard, a promise that has built a loyal following among enthusiasts.



The Sector II Field Titanium Tropical is a direct product of this meticulous process. It takes the core DNA of a classic field watch, an instrument born from military necessity, and reinterprets it for today's user. The inspiration draws from the weathered character of vintage pieces that saw action in harsh, tropical climates, where sun and humidity would alter the appearance of dials and cases over time. Instead of simply mimicking this aged look with faux-patina, Nodus has created a cohesive aesthetic that feels earned, using a warm, earthy color palette and material finishes that speak to durability and resilience from the outset.



At the heart of the watch's identity is its case, crafted from Grade 2 titanium. This material was selected for a host of practical reasons that align perfectly with the field watch ethos. Titanium is exceptionally lightweight, possessing a high strength-to-weight ratio that offers durability comparable to stainless steel without the associated heft. This makes the watch incredibly comfortable for extended wear, a key consideration for an everyday tool. Furthermore, titanium is known for its excellent corrosion resistance and hypoallergenic properties, ensuring it can withstand exposure to the elements and remain comfortable against the skin.



One of the few drawbacks of raw titanium is its relative softness and susceptibility to scratches compared to 316L steel. Nodus addresses this issue directly by applying a specialized coating of Cerakote. This high-performance, ceramic-based polymer coating acts as a durable shield, significantly increasing the case's resistance to abrasions and impacts. For the Tropical edition, a specific subtle green shade of Cerakote was chosen, which not only enhances the watch's durability but also contributes significantly to its mission-ready visual character. The matte, non-reflective finish is practical in the field and gives the timepiece a distinct, modern look.



The case dimensions are a study in ergonomic design. Measuring 38mm in width, 47mm from lug to lug, and a slim 11.7mm in thickness, the Sector II is sized for universal appeal and comfort on a wide range of wrists. The 20mm lug width is a standard size, allowing for easy strap changes, though the included strap is a compelling reason to stick with the original configuration. The moderate case diameter combined with the dramatic downward curve of the lugs ensures the watch sits securely and close to the wrist, preventing it from feeling bulky or top-heavy.



A significant contributor to the watch's slim profile is its cleverly engineered crystal. Nodus employs a robust, box-shaped sapphire crystal, which rises vertically from the bezel before flattening out over the dial. This design is not just for aesthetics; it allows the dial and handset to be positioned higher, sitting partially within the cavity of the crystal itself. This efficient use of space reduces the required height of the metal midcase, helping to achieve the 11.7mm thickness while maintaining a strong visual presence and a high degree of protection for the dial. An anti-reflective coating applied to the underside of the crystal minimizes glare and enhances legibility.



The dial of the Tropical edition is arguably its most captivating feature. It is a multi-layered construction that creates a tangible sense of depth and texture. The color scheme is a dynamic mix of warm gray and brown tones, shifting character depending on the light. The layout follows the "sector" philosophy, with distinct concentric rings defining different functions. An outer ring features large, printed Arabic numerals for the hours, rendered in a creamy, off-white hue. Inside this is a recessed central medallion that houses the brand and model text, as well as an inner 24-hour track marked for military time.



Legibility, a cornerstone of any field watch design, is superb. The syringe-style hands are generously proportioned and filled with luminous material, providing a clear distinction between the hour and minute indicators. The simple stick seconds hand is finished in a contrasting color that adds a subtle visual highlight as it sweeps across the dial. The overall impression is one of purpose and clarity, where every element is designed to be read quickly at a glance, yet the combination of colors and textures provides enough detail to be appreciated upon closer inspection.



For low-light visibility, Nodus has utilized Swiss Super-LumiNova Old Radium Grade X1. This specific compound was chosen to complement the watch's warm, earthy aesthetic, providing a creamy, khaki-like color in daylight that evokes the look of aged radium lume from vintage watches. However, its performance is entirely modern, glowing brightly and persistently in the dark to ensure the time is readable in any lighting condition. This application of modern performance with vintage-inspired coloring is a recurring theme throughout the watch's design.



Powering the Sector II Field is the TMI Caliber NH38. This movement, produced by a subsidiary of Seiko, is a smart choice for a tool watch. It is essentially the no-date variant of the ubiquitous NH35, known throughout the industry as a reliable and robust workhorse. Its simple, durable construction makes it easy to service and capable of withstanding the rigors of daily use. The movement operates at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour and offers a power reserve of approximately 41 hours. It also includes hacking and hand-winding capabilities.



A key differentiator for Nodus is the brand’s practice of regulating each movement in-house before it is cased. While the factory specification for the NH38 allows for a wider range of accuracy, Nodus adjusts each caliber to an impressive standard of +/- 10 seconds per day. This meticulous step adds significant value and ensures a level of performance often found in watches at a much higher price point. The solid, screw-down caseback features an intricate concentric circular pattern and is engraved with the brand name and limited-edition number.



The watch is secured to the wrist with the debut of the DPM Hybrid TecTuff Rubber Strap. This strap is a rugged and innovative take on the brand's popular hybrid design. The top surface is made of TecTuff, a high-performance leather coating that is highly resistant to abrasion, oil, stains, and water. This particular version features an integrated Disruptive Pattern Material (DPM) camouflage design, further reinforcing the watch's military-inspired theme. The underside of the strap is made from high-strength NBR rubber, a material widely used in diving applications for its durability and comfort.



This combination of materials results in a strap that is both tough and comfortable. It requires no break-in period and molds to the shape of the wrist almost immediately. The inclusion of quick-release spring bars allows for tool-free strap changes, adding a layer of convenience for owners who like to customize their look. The strap is completed with a solid titanium pin buckle that is color-matched to the watch case, ensuring a cohesive and secure fit. The entire watch head weighs only 45 grams, making the complete package exceptionally light and easy to wear all day.



The "Sector Philosophy" is a concept Nodus developed to guide the evolution of this particular collection. It is built on the idea that a single, well-designed midcase can serve as a versatile foundation for a wide array of watches. By standardizing the core architecture, Nodus can adapt the platform with different bezels, dials, finishes, and complications to suit various purposes, from diving to everyday wear. The name itself is inspired by the sector dials of the early 20th century, which used physical boundaries and finishing techniques to divide the dial into functional zones and were found on everything from military to formal watches.



In practical terms, the Sector II Field Titanium is a highly capable companion. The 100-meter water resistance, secured by a screw-down crown, is more than sufficient for swimming, snorkeling, and any terrestrial activity. Its lightweight construction makes it an ideal candidate for hiking, camping, or any pursuit where comfort and low weight are priorities. The extreme legibility of the dial and the durability of the Cerakote-coated titanium case mean it can handle the bumps and scrapes of an active lifestyle without issue.



The Nodus Sector II Field Titanium Tropical Limited Edition is priced at $550.00. Given the materials used, the specifications, and the in-house regulation, this represents a strong value proposition within the independent watch market. The use of a Cerakote-coated Grade 2 titanium case, a box sapphire crystal, and a custom-made Hybrid TecTuff strap are features not commonly found at this price point. With production strictly limited to 75 pieces, availability is fleeting. This release stands as a confident statement from Nodus, showcasing the brand's ability to innovate within a classic framework and its continued commitment to building high-performance, purpose-driven watches.



Case: Grade 2 Titanium with Cerakote® coating; 38mm width x 11.7mm thickness x 47mm lug-to-lug x 20mm lug width; Box sapphire crystal with blue anti-reflective coating on underside; Screw-down crown; 100 meters water resistance.

Movement: TMI NH38 automatic caliber; 24 jewels; 41 hours power reserve; Antimagnetic ? 4800 A/m; Regulated by Nodus to +/- 10 seconds per day.

Dial: "Tropical" dial with warm gray and brown hues; Sector layout; Swiss Super-LumiNova® Old Radium Grade X1 lume.

Strap: DPM Hybrid TecTuff® Rubber Strap; Titanium buckle; Fits up to 8 inch wrist.

Price: $550.00

Notes: Limited to 75 pieces worldwide. The watch head weighs only 45g. Designed and assembled in Los Angeles.