The first time you hold the Balmer Stellar Nova, you’ll notice the Big Dipper design fitted with 7 small genuine white diamonds next to a crescent moon and forget about the time of day. But even more amazing is the outer bezel that provides a corona of 18 carat golden light. The date is ever-present, gazing through a window at the 3 o’clock position. A single larger white diamond is nestled above at noon and midnight like the North Star, so central and easy to find.

Though infinitely refined, the Balmer Stellar Nova comes to us very well grounded with a sapphire crystal front. The same can be said for the back, allowing exhibition of the automatic Swiss ETA movement. Subtle flourishes like delicate etchings on the side casing shouldn’t be lost on the discerning eye. One should also standup and congratulate all creatures great and small for the implementation of stainless steel lug screws, rather than spring-pins, to attach the bracelet to the case.

As the universe will soon learn, all Balmer watches are Swiss-made, and also thank them for these devices that make us aware of this illusive linear habitation that remains otherwise immeasurable.