Amida has transformed their iconic Digitrend into a mechanical showcase with the Open Sapphire edition, trading the original’s full steel construction for a transparent sapphire top that reveals the fascinating mechanics behind one of horology’s most unusual time displays.
Just one year after the brand’s successful revival, this 150-piece limited edition represents the horological equivalent of removing a sports car’s engine cover – suddenly visible are all the intricate components that create the magic.
Crystal Clear Vision
The original Digitrend’s “casquette” design has inspired legendary pieces like Max Büsser’s HM5 and HMX, proving the enduring appeal of this 1970s retro-futuristic concept. The prismatic crystal system that renders digital-style time display through mechanical means remains one of horology’s most ingenious solutions to driver’s watch functionality, displaying time at a 90-degree angle from its actual orientation for optimal dashboard viewing.
This Open Sapphire variant maintains the identical 39.6mm by 39mm stainless steel case dimensions while replacing the traditional steel “fastback” top with a shaped sapphire crystal dome. The transformation creates what Amida describes as a “Targa top” effect – borrowing automotive terminology that perfectly captures the open-air viewing experience this design provides.
The visual revelation is genuinely fascinating. Viewers can now observe the backward-oriented numerals on the horizontal display discs before they enter the prism system, where optical physics reverses and redirects them for vertical display. This behind-the-scenes perspective transforms what was already an unusual timepiece into an educational demonstration of mechanical ingenuity and optical principles working in harmony.
The 16mm thickness, necessitated by the vertical display mechanism and jumping hour module, might seem substantial, but the unique proportions and automotive-inspired design language make this thickness feel purposeful rather than excessive. The substantial case presence reinforces the dashboard instrument aesthetic that defines the casquette genre.
Automotive Inspiration
Powering this mechanical theater is the Soprod NEWTON P092 automatic movement, enhanced with a specialized jumping hour module that creates the distinctive digital-style time change every 60 minutes. The 44-hour power reserve and 28,800 vph frequency provide reliable performance, while the 23-jewel construction ensures long-term durability.
The movement finishing deserves particular recognition, featuring Geneva stripes, circular graining, sandblasting, and brushing treatments that create visual interest now fully visible through the sapphire top. The skeletonized oscillating weight and rhodium-plated finishes demonstrate serious attention to aesthetic details that were previously hidden from view.
The orange numerals on the display discs create striking contrast against the industrial movement finishing, while the charcoal Alcantara strap with orange calfskin lining reinforces the automotive theme through premium interior materials. The optional metal bracelet provides alternative wearing options for different lifestyle preferences.
At CHF 4,500 for 150 pieces, the Open Sapphire commands a premium over the standard Digitrend, but the transparent construction and limited production justify the increased investment. This pricing positions the watch competitively within the independent watchmaking segment while offering genuinely unique complications unavailable elsewhere.
The Digitrend Open Sapphire succeeds as both horological education and wearing experience. By revealing the mechanical processes behind the optical illusion, Amida has created something more compelling than the sum of its parts – a timepiece that entertains, educates, and performs with equal measure. For collectors seeking conversation-starting complications with automotive soul, few options deliver this combination of transparency, innovation, and retro-futuristic style.
