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Sheffield
Allsport 1A 38

Technical Review & Community Archive

In the world of horology, few brands manage to capture the essence of their heritage while offering modern functionality as effectively as Sheffield. With the introduction of the Sheffield Allsport 1A 38, the brand pays homage to its iconic 1960s dive watches, merging vintage aesthetics with contemporary technical prowess.

Design & Aesthetics

The Sheffield Allsport 1A 38 is a visual delight, featuring a striking black dial complemented by vibrant orange hour markers and hands. This bold color scheme not only adds a modern twist but also enhances legibility. The black bezel, adorned with crisp white markings, provides a classic dive watch look, while the stainless steel case ensures durability. The watch is paired with an orange rubber strap, adding a pop of color that is both playful and practical, offering comfort and resilience.

Technical Mastery & Movement

Beneath its vintage-inspired exterior, the Allsport 1A 38 is powered by the reliable Seiko NH35 automatic movement. This powerhouse offers dependable, battery-free timekeeping, a testament to Sheffield's commitment to quality. The watch boasts a 200m water resistance, making it suitable for swimming, snorkeling, and recreational diving. The addition of a screw-down crown further enhances its water-tight integrity. The sapphire crystal, treated with an anti-reflective coating, ensures that the dial remains clear and scratch-free, a modern upgrade that respects the watch's vintage roots.

Historical Heritage & Significance

The Allsport 1A 38 is a tribute to the original Sheffield dive watches that were essential tools for adventurers in the 1960s. This modern iteration captures the spirit of its predecessors with its 38mm case size, a nod to the proportions favored in that era. The absence of a crown guard, scaled lugs, and a non-luminous bezel are all period-correct details that enthusiasts will appreciate. Founder Jay Turkbas's personal connection to the brand, having received his first Sheffield watch at age 11, adds a layer of authenticity and passion to this revival. Priced at an inflation-adjusted $198, the watch offers exceptional value, blending nostalgia with modern-day practicality.

Veloce Team Perspective: The Sheffield Allsport 1A 38 is more than just a watch; it's a journey back in time with a modern twist. Its vibrant orange accents and robust build make it a standout piece that feels just as comfortable in a boardroom as it does on a beach. It's a conversation starter, a nod to the past, and a reliable companion for today's adventures.

What movement powers the Sheffield Allsport 1A 38mm?

It uses the robust Seiko NH35 automatic movement for reliable, battery-free timekeeping.

What are the key specifications?

38mm 316L stainless steel case, 200m (20 ATM) water resistance, non-luminous black bezel with white markings, black dial with orange accents, sapphire crystal with AR coating, screw-down crown, Tropic rubber strap, ~88g weight.

Is it suitable for diving?

Yes, rated to 200m for swimming, snorkeling, and recreational diving, with shock-resistant construction.

How does it compare to the original Sheffield watches?

It's a direct homage with vintage 38mm sizing, design, and non-luminous bezel, but improved with automatic movement, better water resistance, and modern materials, while maintaining the same wrist presence.

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