The Invicta 8926 is a 'Diver' type watch with a auto wind mechanical movement with Date. It is supplied with a bracelet and both the case and bracelet are in Stainless Steel with a weight of 110 grams. The case diameter is 40mm and is 12mm thick. This example was obtained from AAA Watch Connection in early 1999 |
The Bracelet links are not as thick as would match the proportions of the case.
Apparently a new model has addressed this situation. The usual split
pins allow removal / addition of links for sizing. The snap down clasp has
a safety latch. The width tapers from 20 down to 15mm. |
The screwed Back of the watch has a mineral glass window and the view of the movement is spoiled to
some extent by the printing proclaiming information that is already on the dial. Water resistance to 200m is claimed. The front Glass is mineral and has a cyclops eye magnifier over the Date window. Thje magnification obtained here is minimal. |
The Movement fitted is a Japanese Miyota 21 Jewel lever escapement. The balance, I believe,
is 6 beats per second. The self winding is unidirectional and the power reserve is about 40 hours. There is no Hack feature fitted. The movement is completely unpretentious with there being no attempts to tart it up cosmetically. A plastic retaining ring is visible securing the movement A quick regulation has obtained about -8 secs per day. |
The Dial is shiny black with 'sparkly' silver trim around the hour indices and on the Hands. The luminous material is not tritium - but is a light activated type. The retention of energy for viewing in the dark is very poor and the watch cannot be read in the dark after about one hour. This a major failing which I believe has been improved upon in the latest model ? The dial is acceptable to read despite the shine and silver highlights - mainly due to the mineral glass being flat. I feel that the seconds hand is a bit short - I like to see them overlapping the indices more. It is also a bit heavy at the pointed end. |
The Invicta is a comfortable watch to wear, even though it seems to sit up high from
the wrist. The Bezel is so hard to turn that it does not annoy me by
moving off its 12 o'clock setting like some other watches I have. It is a
pity about its pathetic luminous performance. At the typical 100$ US, it is a remarkable example of what can be acheived with modern Pacific rim machine tool investment and not having to support the expensive traditional watch making infastructure. I love it - it's great value and great fun. |
Version 2.0 |
The Case is polished on all surfaces except the upper sides of the lugs which are brushed. The screw down Crown is large and easy to operate. It is quite short for its diameter and there is not a lot of thread engagement when it is screwed down. The Bracelet is the usual deployment style with solid links and is a mixture of polished and brushed. Across the lugs is 47mm and the bracelet width is 20mm. A tight to move unidirectional Bezel is fitted. |
