It’s fair to say that if the watch world is short of something, it’s definitely not tool watches. Whether they’re large or small, subtle or brash, wallet-burstingly expensive, or outstanding value, there is something for everyone, and usually they’re pretty good at their jobs, too. But one thing’s for sure, though, and that is that many modern so-called tool watches now lean towards utilitarian jewellery rather than being hardcore technical devices.
But let’s say you’re stuck somewhere on a mountainside. You don’t want a watch you’re worried about using; you need something that works. For example, in situations like that, deciding to take a decent watch with you could mean the difference between knowing which way is north and being hopelessly, dangerously lost. It sounds implausible, but if you expose yourself to those risks, it’s very much a reality, and after all, that’s why Mountain Rescue teams exist, right?
Well, what if someone from Mountain Rescue actually designed a watch that would actually be fit for that purpose? That’s where British microbrand Ontic comes in. Founder John Hickling knows all too well what it’s like to be cold, wet and very lost halfway up a hill, thanks to his background as a Mountain Rescue volunteer. He recently used this experience as he turned his hand to watch design, and the result is the Ontic Utility 40 range, a collection of watches all made to serve a purpose.
Firstly, the name, Ontic, comes from the Greek word ón, meaning “being” or “that which is.” In philosophy, the term is used to describe something tangible and concrete rather than abstract or imagined. It’s a fitting choice for a watch intended to be used in the real world, and not to be pampered. The Utility 40 range contains nine watches, all based around the same architecture, with different colours and styles to suit the wearer’s requirements.
The case
The case is a recognisable shape, for sure, with good reason; this style of watch has been considered a suitable fit for a tool watch for decades, but importantly, the proportions are well considered. Built from grade 2 titanium, it measures 40mm in diameter, 12mm thick, and has a lug-to-lug of 46mm. It’s sized just right to be useful when needed without getting in the way. The titanium used for the case has been hardened to 1,200 Vickers, which, in case you didn’t know, makes it incredibly hard and scratch-resistant.
Each watch is individually tested to 300 meters of water resistance, which puts it toe-to-toe with its closest competitors quite easily. The finishing isn’t completely free of neat details, though, as we see across the range, there’s a mix of brushed finishes, sandblasted finishes, and even black DLC coatings, and the lugs and crown guards are treated to some lovely polished bevels. Finally, the 120-click unidirectional bezel is a key feature, because not only does it come with a brushed ceramic insert, but it’s equipped with neat details such as a compass running around the outside rim, and if you know how to use it, it’s a convenient feature if you get lost.
The dials
There are nine different variations across the Utility 40 range, split into four distinct categories. Objectively, there’s not a massive difference beyond colourways, but each one is its own stylistic theme and name. The “Core” range features more plain, singular colours, such as blue, red, green, and black, with the green and red featuring smoky fumé dials that darken towards the edges.
The “Dive” range showcases some more colourful choices, pairing blue with orange, and black with red, for a more focused take on a dive watch, highlighting the 15-minute section on the bezel as a warning indicator for divers. The second hand also shares the brighter colour, too. Alongside this, the “Duty” range features the stealthy DLC-coated case, matched with smoky green and red dials.
Finally, there’s the “Tribute” collection, the MR1. This is a direct tribute to the UK’s Mountain Rescue teams, of which the founder was a part. Inspired by the Mountain Rescue livery, the watch shares orange and yellow tones, designed to be visible in harsh environments. Additionally, a portion of the profits from this version go directly to supporting UK Mountain Rescue.
Aside from colours, the dials are incredibly functional and highly detailed. The dial’s surface is 3-dimensional, with a perfect pyramid-like texture that is super cool to look at and doesn’t detract from the dial’s legibility. In fact, legibility is no problem whatsoever, thanks to generous lashings of Super-LumiNova on the custom handset and applied hour markers. There’s even a lumed frame around the date window at 6 o’clock, a unique way of actively not trying to hide the date.
The movement
We all love automatic watches. But some would argue that a tool watch can’t be a tool watch if it’s not mechanical. However, the Utility 40 proves this to be incorrect. It’s powered by a Ronda Solartech 215 solar-powered quartz movement built for accuracy, toughness, and years of loyal service. This is not only Ontic’s way of focusing on functionality without costing the earth, but also being solar quartz-powered, it will work literally anywhere. You could be lost in the wilderness with a mechanical watch, but if you forget to wind it and it stops or breaks, and you don’t know the time, it won’t be much use to you in finding your way. The solar quartz Utility 40 solves this problem comfortably.
The straps
To be a good tool watch, you need to have a decent way of fixing to the wrist, and the Utility 40 has a couple of solid options. Each watch arrives with a colour-matched custom FKM rubber strap that features the same pyramid texture as the dial. The straps all feature quick-release systems and come equipped with a titanium pin buckle to match the case. For just a smidge more money, there’s an option of a full-titanium three-link bracelet with an engraved folding clasp and comfort link. And fear not, if you choose the brushed, sandblasted or DLC-coated versions of the Utility 40, there’s a titanium bracelet made specifically for each style.
Ontic Utility 40 pricing & availability
The Ontic Utility 40 is now available directly from Ontic. Price: £599 (on strap), £679 (on bracelet)
Brand
Ontic
Model
Utility 40
Case Dimensions
40mm (D) x 12mm (T) x 46mm (LTL)
Case Material
Grade 2 hardened titanium
Water Resistance
300 meters, screw-down crown
Crystal(s)
Sapphire front
Dial
Pyramid texture with 9 variations
Lug Width
20mm
Bracelet
Rubber FKM strap or titanium bracelet with folding clasp
Movement
Ronda Solartech 215, solar-powered quartz
Functions
Hours, minutes, seconds, date, timing/compass bezel
Availability
Available now
Price
£599 (on strap)
£679 (on bracelet)