I really like the archetypal Monnin case (some would say “cased,” with another company, M.R.P., also likely deserving some credit). There are actually a few different Monnin cases that were used by a range of brands back in the day, though the originating Heuer 844 (“Jumbo”) is the most iconic. The same or very similar design continues to be fairly popular, likely best exemplified by CWC’s range of divers (though these tend to be discussed with reference to their military issuance rather than their Monnin cases being specifically highlighted). What I had not come across until recently was a modern reimagining of this appealing case shape (akin to what Seiko did with the 62MAS and its classic skindiver “H” case). Enter the Tactico Atlantis.

The short of Tactico Watches is that they are a Spanish microbrand, and sister brand of Crepas Watches. Both brands focus mostly on dive watches, often inspired by vintage designs, and operate in the affordable (sub-$1000) space. They will frequently fund via Kickstarter, and they sell direct from their respective websites and via eBay.

The case of the Atlantis (and Crepas’s Professionel) is a clear riff on the Monnin 844 shape. The Atlantis then pulls additional inspiration from the obscure Aquadive 503.305 reference, whereas the Professional draws further from the more well-known Heuer 844. Both lines are homages in the clear but creative sense, rather than “straight” or “close” homages.

I preferred the overall look of the Atlantis to the Professional, and the playful blue color way uniquely available for the former (actually turquoise, and of the more green-undertone/seafoam variety; the Atlantis can also be had in black and yellow). The specs are solid (really, impressive for the price), with the sorts of materials you would hope to see these days (e.g., ceramic, sapphire, inner anti-reflective coating, high-quality gaskets). I opted for the lesser of two movement options (Ronda R150 rather than the ETA 2824-2).

I find Tactico’s spin on the Monnin case and vintage Aquadive referent’s dial, handset, and bezel to be familiar but thoughtfully distinctive upon closer inspection. The ideal sort of homage for me. The most notable distinctions are the more aggressive chamfering that cause the lugs to seem thinner. The slightly trapezoidal rather than baton hour and minute hands. The jettison of the day half of the day-date display. And the taller profile (about 14mm), boxier from the sides, that is coupled with an impressive (excessive) 1000m of water resistance and helium escape valve. While the increase in substantialness is at the expensive of some of the squat and curvy charm of the classic Monnin case, the admirable fitment and wrist-hugging nature of the style is retained.

The classic bracelet for this case style is the jubilee. Tactico (and Crepas) follows suit, though relative to my vintage Monnin-cased watches, I found the reimagined heartier watch head to be a bit much for the dressier look of a jubilee. So I promptly switched to aftermarket rubber straps (thus far I’ve just been running it on tropics). I do not know whether the rally-style tropic strap stretch goal for Kickstarter backers ever came to be.

The brushed and polished finishing and tactile functioning of the watch are quite satisfying for the price. You also get a nice four-slot watch roll made of artificial leather, a micro screwdriver, a cleaning cloth, two spare spring bars, and a warranty card.

For Monnin fans or those looking for an interesting and fun summer watch pickup, the Tactico Atlantis is easy to recommend.