Venezianico Nereide: what does its owner think?

The Venezianico Nereide, launched in 2017, is the collection that has accompanied almost the entire history of the Italian company originally founded under the Meccaniche Veneziane name. Its name pays tribute to the Nereide submarine built at Venice’s Royal Arsenal in the early twentieth century, immediately giving the watch a maritime identity. The first generation is a 42 mm automatic dive watch water-resistant to 200 metres, equipped with sapphire crystal, a unidirectional bezel and a customised Japanese Miyota 821A movement.

The family then develops rapidly through Swiss movements, a new case architecture, GMT functionality, openworked dials, tungsten bezels, Venetian aventurine, bronze, carbon and a compact 39 mm format. When Meccaniche Veneziane becomes Venezianico in 2022, the Nereide remains central to the catalogue and serves as a platform for extensive material research. Depending on reference, it now uses Seiko, Miyota, Sellita or Soprod calibres while retaining genuine dive-watch water resistance and a strong relationship with the artisanal and maritime history of Venice.

Design & legibility: a classical diver enriched with Venetian references

The Nereide adopts a comparatively conventional dive-watch architecture from the outset: a round dial with large applied markers, strongly contrasted hands, screw-down crown and a graduated unidirectional bezel for measuring dive time. Venezianico progressively develops this design towards a more personal identity, notably through the faceted shapes of the case, elongated markers and use of materials directly associated with Venice. Dials may be simply sunray finished but can also be made from aventurine glass, mother-of-pearl, forged carbon or receive considerably more unusual metallic treatments. The Nereide’s ability to integrate Venetian or technical materials without abandoning the architecture of a genuine dive watch is its principal distinguishing characteristic. Legibility remains supported by Swiss Super-LumiNova BGW9 on many generations. Bezels have also developed extensively: aluminium on early watches, BK7 optical glass, tungsten, bronze or specific constructions for GMT models. This diversity allows both a restrained Nereide and a far more spectacular Avventurina to remain immediately recognisable as members of the same family.

Case, bezel and comfort: from the historical 42 mm to a compact 39 mm

The historical diameter of the Nereide is 42 mm, with a length generally reaching approximately 49 mm on modern generations. This format provides genuine dive-watch presence and leaves substantial surfaces for the dial and bezel. Contemporary 42 mm NH35-powered versions measure around 13.3 mm thick, while certain Tungsteno or Avventurina models with Sellita movements remain between approximately 12.5 and 13.5 mm. Venezianico subsequently develops a significantly more compact 39 mm case, measuring 45.5 mm in length and capable of reducing thickness to around 10.5 to 10.65 mm. The move to 39 mm represents one of the most important ergonomic developments in the Nereide family. 316L stainless steel remains the dominant case material, although QAl9-4 bronze, certain PVD or Gunmetal finishes and other materials substantially broaden the choice. Crystal is sapphire with anti-reflective treatment and the crown screws down. Canova or Sansovino bracelets add greater presence, while FKM rubber and hybrid straps favour sporting use.

Movement: a family that moved from Miyota to Swiss and GMT calibres

The Nereide is not associated with one single movement. The first generation uses the Miyota 821A, a Japanese automatic calibre operating at 21,600 vibrations per hour with approximately 40 hours of autonomy. The 2019 Nereide 3.0 moves to the MV285 based on the Swiss STP 1-11, with 26 jewels, a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour and approximately 44 hours of power reserve. More accessible Nereide 42 watches then make extensive use of the Seiko NH35A, while the 39 mm format notably adopts the slimmer no-date Miyota 9039. Higher-level Tungsteno and Avventurina 42 versions use the Sellita SW200-1 and certain more recent creations use Soprod mechanics. This mechanical diversity allows Venezianico to adapt price, thickness and sophistication to each Nereide without changing the general identity of the collection. GMT models use the Seiko NH34 on the first 39 mm generation, with an independently adjustable 24-hour hand of the caller-GMT type. Ultraleggero watches use the openworked NH70 so that the mechanics remain visible through their distinctive dial architecture.

Chronological milestones and main models (2017–2025)

(2017) Meccaniche Veneziane Nereide Ardesia First Generation:

The first Nereide appears at the launch of Meccaniche Veneziane and is the subject of a Kickstarter campaign between June and July 2017. The Meccaniche Veneziane Nereide Ardesia — not disclosed has a 42 mm 316L stainless-steel case, domed anti-reflective sapphire crystal, a 120-click unidirectional rotating bezel with aluminium insert and stated water resistance of 200 metres. The black dial receives large hour markers and Swiss Super-LumiNova. The automatic MV044 movement is based on the Miyota 821A, contains 21 jewels, operates at 21,600 vibrations per hour and provides approximately 40 hours of power reserve. Manual winding is available although this generation does not yet provide all the functions found in later movements. Watches are notably supplied on Italian leather with an additional sporting strap. This first Nereide establishes the technical and aesthetic foundations of a collection that subsequently becomes the principal sporting platform of the brand.

 

(2018) Meccaniche Veneziane Nereide 2.0 Rubino Swiss Made:

The second generation arrives rapidly and accompanies Meccaniche Veneziane’s intention to strengthen its Swiss positioning. The Meccaniche Veneziane Nereide 2.0 Rubino — not disclosed retains a 42 mm steel case, domed sapphire crystal, unidirectional bezel with aluminium insert and 200 metres of water resistance. Its principal difference is a Swiss automatic movement supplied by DEPA together with the appearance of Swiss Made wording on the dial depending on execution. The case remains close to that of the original Nereide and available colours notably include black, red, green and blue. Hands and hour markers use luminous material and the crown screws down. Italian leather and a rubber strap allow the owner to alternate between urban presentation and aquatic use. This generation is now less straightforward to document than modern Nereide watches, with several references produced during a transitional industrial phase. It nevertheless remains important because it marks the first clear movement of the Nereide from an Italian microbrand using Japanese mechanics towards a watch claiming Swiss mechanical content.

 

(2019) Meccaniche Veneziane Nereide 3.0 Cobalto New Case:

The Nereide 3.0 is a substantially more significant redesign and appears in 2019. The Meccaniche Veneziane Nereide 3.0 Cobalto — not disclosed retains a diameter of 42 mm but receives a more faceted middle case, redesigned lugs and deeper bezel grooves that improve grip. Length is approximately 49 mm and thickness around 14 mm. The 120-click unidirectional bezel still uses an enamelled aluminium insert and the crystal remains domed anti-reflective sapphire. Water resistance remains 200 metres. The essential change concerns the MV285 calibre based on the Swiss STP 1-11: 26 jewels, 28,800 vibrations per hour, bidirectional winding, hacking seconds and approximately 44 hours of power reserve. The caseback becomes more demonstrative and reveals more of the mechanics. This generation also marks a visual maturation through longer hands, a better-integrated date font and more angular case surfaces.

 

(2022) Venezianico Nereide Ultraleggero Structural Openworked Dial:

As Meccaniche Veneziane officially becomes Venezianico, Ultraleggero illustrates the new technical ambition of the company. The Venezianico Nereide Ultraleggero 3921503C has a 42 mm 316L stainless-steel case, approximately 49 mm length and 13.4 mm thickness. Its distinguishing feature is an openworked dial composed of three levels, the first directly replacing part of the movement spacer structure in order to reduce bulk. This principle is covered by Italian patent number 102021000031718. The automatic Seiko NH70, itself openworked, remains visible through the construction. Crystal is anti-reflective sapphire, the crown screws down, the steel bezel operates through 120 clicks and water resistance remains 200 metres. BGW9 Super-LumiNova supports nighttime legibility. Hybrid strap, rubber or Canova bracelet depending on version substantially change the character of the watch. Ultraleggero principally demonstrates that the Nereide can become a mechanical design object without losing its fundamental sporting characteristics.

 

(2022) Venezianico Nereide GMT 39 Arabia Second Time Zone:

The arrival of the Seiko NH34 allows Venezianico to offer an automatic GMT at a more accessible price and in a compact case. The Venezianico Nereide GMT 39 Arabia — not disclosed is produced in 200 pieces and uses a 39 mm stainless-steel case water-resistant to 200 metres. Its green dial combines sunray finishing with a geometric pattern inspired by Arabic decorative arts; Nereide GMT wording is also reproduced in Arabic. The BK7 optical-glass bezel has a 24-hour scale with Arabic numerals and a mirrored treatment on one half to visually differentiate parts of the day. The NH34 calibre, launched by Seiko in 2022, contains 24 jewels, operates at 21,600 vibrations per hour and provides approximately 41 hours of power reserve. Its GMT hand is independently adjustable while local time lacks the jumping-hour function of a true traveller GMT. The caseback indicates major world time zones and reinforces the travel purpose of this branch of the collection.

 

(2023) Venezianico Nereide Avventurina 42 Venetian Glass:

Avventurina transfers a material directly connected with Venetian glassmaking tradition into a dive watch. The Venezianico Nereide Avventurina 4521550 has a 42 mm 316L stainless-steel case, 49 mm length and approximately 12.5 mm thickness. Its dial consists of a thin layer of aventurine glass, a material developed in Venice during the seventeenth century and containing small copper inclusions that create the appearance of a starry sky. Cutting this glass requires specific manufacturing because the inclusions make the material more delicate to machine. The bezel uses a polished tungsten insert selected for its exceptional scratch resistance. The upper crystal is anti-reflective sapphire and the watch remains water-resistant to 200 metres. The Swiss automatic Sellita SW200-1 powers hours, minutes, central seconds and date. Rubber completes the sporting configuration, while a Canova bracelet can give this substantially more spectacular version the appearance of a sport-chic dive watch.

 

(2024) Venezianico Nereide Bronzo Patina and 300 Metres:

The Nereide Bronzo introduces a living material while simultaneously increasing the aquatic performance of the family. The Venezianico Nereide Bronzo 4521555 uses a 42 mm marine-grade QAl9-4 bronze case, 49 mm length and approximately 12.5 mm thickness. The bezel is also made from bronze with circular satin finishing, while the screwed caseback remains 316L stainless steel to avoid permanent bronze contact with the skin. The fumé dial uses warm tones that visually develop as the case acquires patina. For the first time with this architecture, Venezianico states 30 ATM, or 300 metres of water resistance. The Swiss automatic Sellita SW200-1 calibre powers three hands and date. Sapphire crystal receives anti-reflective treatment and BGW9 Super-LumiNova provides nighttime legibility. Rubber remains the most practical strap for water, while an Italian-worked leather option develops the aesthetic relationship with Venetian craft traditions more strongly.

 

(2024) Venezianico Nereide Aureo 39 24-Carat Gold Dial:

Aureo demonstrates how significantly the new compact case can transform the Nereide into a dressier dive watch. The Venezianico Nereide Aureo 39 3121590S measures 39 mm in diameter, 45.5 mm in length and only 10.5 mm thick. Its case remains 316L stainless steel and retains a screw-down crown, anti-reflective sapphire crystal and 200 metres of water resistance. The dial receives a galvanic treatment using pure 24-carat gold applied to a deliberately irregular rippled surface inspired by Venetian decorative techniques. The 120-click bezel uses polished tungsten. Automatic Miyota 9039 is a no-date three-hand movement, a choice that preserves dial symmetry and reduces thickness. The five-link Sansovino bracelet, alternating polished and satin-brushed surfaces with a micro-adjustable clasp, appears for the first time on this reference. Aureo illustrates the progressive movement of the Nereide towards a combination of sporting performance and decorative craftsmanship.

 

Choosing the right version: 39 or 42 mm, movement, bezel and use

The first choice now concerns size. The 42 mm case retains the historical presence of the Nereide and allows complex dials such as Avventurina or Ultraleggero to express themselves fully. The 39 mm feels significantly more compact with 45.5 mm length and around 10.5 mm thickness on several versions. The 39 mm format is the best choice for someone wanting a versatile Nereide that is easy to wear every day. The 42 mm is more appropriate for someone looking for genuine dive-watch presence.

Movement depends heavily on price level. The NH35 is robust and economical, the Miyota 9039 allows case thickness to be reduced, the Sellita SW200-1 contributes a 4 Hz frequency and familiar Swiss mechanics, while the NH70 primarily serves the openworked architecture of the Ultraleggero. The Sellita SW200-1 is the most coherent choice for someone prioritising conventional and readily serviceable Swiss mechanics. Japanese calibres remain highly relevant when price and reduced thickness are priorities.

Bezel material also deserves consideration. BK7 glass creates attractive reflections but may be more exposed to impact than an extremely hard metal. Tungsten, by contrast, provides exceptional scratch resistance and retains its polished appearance for a very long time. Bronze deliberately evolves with the case and acquires patina. A tungsten bezel is particularly interesting for a watch worn frequently and exposed to everyday friction. It also contributes a relatively unusual visual signature compared with the many ceramic bezels available on the market.

Canova and Sansovino steel bracelets give the Nereide a sport-chic presence and remain appropriate in water. FKM rubber is lighter, dries quickly and is better suited to heat or regular aquatic activity. Leather gives greater prominence to the Venetian dimension and elaborate dials but is less logical for swimming. Rubber is the most functional choice when the Nereide is genuinely used as a dive watch. Quick-release systems on certain versions fortunately make switching between options straightforward.

Finally, not every Nereide provides exactly the same capability. Most remain water-resistant to 200 metres, although certain 42 mm Bronzo references reach 300 metres. GMT models add a second time zone, Ultraleggero prioritises visible mechanics and Aventurine or Aureo versions place greater emphasis on materials. The Nereide should therefore be selected according to actual intended use rather than treating the entire collection as technically identical. A recent water-resistance test remains advisable on a pre-owned watch before significant immersion. Other customers’ opinions are essential.

Conclusion

The Venezianico Nereide is aimed at enthusiasts seeking an independent dive watch capable of evolving well beyond simple colour variations. Since 2017, it has progressed from a microbrand model powered by a Miyota into a broad family using Japanese and Swiss movements, GMT functions, openworked dials, aventurine, tungsten, bronze and gold treatments. Historical 42 mm versions prioritise presence and spectacular materials, while 39 mm watches make the collection considerably easier to wear today. Water resistance of 200 metres remains the family standard, with certain references extending the figure to 300 metres. Choice therefore depends as much on calibre and diameter as on dial or bezel material.

To compare these many configurations with actual comfort, accuracy and everyday durability, Dialicious customer reviews provide a particularly useful complement.

(Updated August 2026)