Why should we back?
Intro
Zealandic Iceborne is a unique wristwatch project inspired by the natural beauty of New Zealand, now available for backing on Kickstarter. This watch blends modern design with the country’s rugged wilderness, aiming to offer a reliable and stylish companion for adventurers and casual users alike. With an emphasis on durability, aesthetics, and practicality, Iceborne positions itself as more than just a timepiece—it’s a connection to nature and adventure. In this post, we’ll help you evaluate whether supporting this project aligns with your expectations and needs.
Why should I back this project?
- Inspired by New Zealand’s Landscapes: The watch pays homage to New Zealand’s glaciers and regions like Central Otago, with design cues reflected in colors like forest green and burgundy.
- High-End Materials: Iceborne is crafted with a sapphire crystal that has anti-reflective (AR) coating and features Super-LumiNova for excellent night visibility.
- Designed for Durability and Everyday Use: It offers a robust build suitable for outdoor activities, ensuring comfort and durability without compromising on aesthetics.
- Limited Kickstarter Discount: Backers can enjoy significant savings—while the watch is expected to retail at $589, Kickstarter supporters can secure it for as low as $441.
- Conversation Starter: With bold designs and vivid textures, the watch serves as a subtle yet impactful statement piece, appealing to both watch enthusiasts and casual users.
What’s the potential drawbacks you should consider when you back it?
- Minor Prototype Issues: Early prototypes exhibited small imperfections, such as smudging on hands and indices. However, these issues are being addressed for the mass-production model.
- Color Preferences May Vary: Some backers might find certain color variants, like burgundy, unusual for a watch inspired by glaciers, though this reflects local inspirations from Central Otago’s wine and landscapes.
- No Date Window: While the absence of a date display ensures a cleaner dial, it may be a drawback for users who prefer this feature in daily wear watches.
The reliability of the project
- Transparent Development Process: Zealandic has been open about their design journey and receptive to feedback from prototypes, which indicates they are committed to delivering a quality product.
- Strong Community Engagement: The team actively engages with backers, offering regular updates to maintain transparency throughout the production process.
- Discounted Early Access: Backers benefit from early-bird pricing, reducing some financial risks compared to waiting for retail availability.
Conclusion
Zealandic Iceborne is more than just a watch—it’s a celebration of New Zealand’s natural beauty and craftsmanship. With premium materials, unique design elements, and early-bird discounts, this project offers solid reasons to support it. However, potential backers should consider minor design trade-offs and the lack of a date window based on their preferences. If you value both aesthetics and functionality in your everyday accessories, Iceborne could be a rewarding addition to your collection.
