Introducing Nereide Acquaforte: Venezianico’s Homage to Italian ِCraftsmanship

The Italian watchmaker Venezianico has launched a new timepiece that honors neoclassical art. This latest addition to its signature diver collection, the Nereide Acquaforte, celebrates the Renaissance through a classic engraving technique that has been rediscovered and reimagined. The piece blends tradition with modernity, resulting in a timeless, sophisticated design.

The Morelli brothers reinterpret their signature diver, the Nereide, with a neoclassical motif inspired by acanthus leaves—a symbol of harmony and purity. The watch case is crafted from 316L steel using an ancient artisanal technique that creates depth and a striking three-dimensional effect.

Etching, the technique used for this model, originated during the Renaissance and was perfected in Italy by master artisans. The process involves applying a protective layer to the metal, engraving the design on top, and then immersing the piece in an acid bath to corrode the exposed areas. Ink is then applied by hand to enhance the engravings, bringing out the contrasts and giving the design relief.

The intricate decoration covers the entire case, including the lugs and the unidirectional rotating bezel, with a neoclassical pattern inspired by ancient Greece and revived by Renaissance masters. This engraving imbues the case with a classic charm that harmonizes with the minimalist black dial, striking a balance between aesthetics and functionality. The dial is protected by an anti-reflective sapphire crystal.

The case back pays homage to Venice with the Lion of Saint Mark, symbol of the Serenissima Republic. This emblem on the Nereide Acquaforte’s case back is a tribute to the unique history and character of Venice.

The deep black dial showcases elegant indices and hands treated with Swiss Super-LumiNova Black, which emits a subtle green glow to ensure readability even in low-light conditions. 

The watch is designed to display only the time in all elegance. Speaking of simplicity, the company recently unveiled its first watch with a Regulator design, which we talked about in this article.

Powering the watch is the Miyota Caliber 9039, offering a 42-hour power reserve and beating at 28,800 vph (4 Hz). Completing the timepiece is an aged leather strap, with a buckle engraved in the same motif as the case. The Nereide Acquaforte is priced at EUR 697, equivalent to AED 2,750.

For more information, visit Venezianico's official website.