Islander x Cheap Audio Man Rocktopus Limited Edition Watch #ISL-256

Introducing a collaboration between Islander and Cheap Audio Man. . . the limited edition "Rocktopus". Designed by an audiophile, this watch takes cues from the audio world and seemlessly melds them into the watch world. Turntables and mechanical watches - both should be gone the way of the dinosaur, but continue to thrive thanks to a wonderful fan base.

We started with a 42mm case with an offset, screwdown crown to ensure 200 meters of water resistnace. The case and bracelet are fully brushed, instead of the traditional mix of polished and brushed surfaces, which gives it a stealthy vibe. The 120 click unidirectional bezel is finished with a knurled pattern, matching the crown. The bezel insert is done in brushed ceramic, with the only numeric markings at 33 and 45, nodding to the RPMs of popular vinyl formats. A lume pip is placed at the top of the bezel.

The dial is modeled after a vinyl record, with the center being a BGW9 lume filled circle. The branding is kept grey'd out to keep your focus on the dial texture which resembles record grooves. This groove pattern is extended to the chapter ring. The motto of Cheap Audio Man, "Binge Listen And Fill Your Soul With Happiness" is written on the bottom periperhy of the dial.

The hour and minute hands are simple sticks, coated with C3 Super-LumiNova that glows green in low light. But the seconds hand is simply something else! It is modeled after an actual pickup arm (tone arm). Look close enough and you'll even see the cartridge and the counterweight. So cool!

Turning it over reveals the etched caseback with the image of the Rocktopus, the edition number and the branding.

Securing the watch to your wrist is a 20mm brushed bracelet that has negative endlinks to help conform to smaller wrists. These endlinks articulate fully at the case. A 3 position microadjust clasp featuring both brandings is used to get the just right fit. The solid link, solid endlink bracelet is sized with an included screwdriver.

Lastly, the watch is topped with a flat anti-reflective sapphire crystal that will resist scratching and keep the watch looking like new for years to come.

About the collaborator:
Randy is the Cheap Audio Man. He started the youtube channel in October of 2020 concentrating on high value audio products trying to break down the gatekeeping mentality of some audiophiles. His goal was to become a full time "youtuber" and in February of 2022 he made that a reality. He grew up on a farm in Nebraska, served in the US Navy in the submarine force, and worked in Oil and Gas automation and instrumentation, but his passion has always been talking about stereos and home theater setups. With over 900 videos, hundreds of thousands of subscribers and tens of millions of views, Randy thinks everyone should have a hifi setup at any budget.

This watch is compatible with SKX007 parts such as bracelets, bezels, bezel inserts, casebacks, hands, crystals, dials and chapter rings.

To see all the bracelets that are compatible with this Islander watch click here.