These days, it seems new designs are increasingly rare in the modern watch world as so many new watches share major design elements with watches we've seen in the past. How many different brand names have you seen that fundamentally look like a Rolex Submariner? Halios is looking to shake this derivative funk with the release of their highly anticipated BlueRing diver.

We were lucky enough to score a review sample in the form of a blue dialed and brushed steel model direct from Vancouver. Frequent visitors will remember our review of the Holotype about a year ago and how we came away impressed by the design, quality, and value of their first offering. The BlueRing expands on the Halios brand with better technology, a fresh design, and a more wearable package.

Let's start with the details:

• 44.5x14.5mm stainless steel case.
• Sapphire crystal.
• ETA 2824-2 automatic movement.
• 22mm lugs.
• 300m/1000ft water resistance.
• Available in brushed or blasted finish.
• SII NE15 movement (black dial version), or the ETA 2824-2 (blue and silver dial versions).

Halios has released new details on it upcoming BlueRing diver. The BlueRing is the follow up to the Holotype and mixes similar style with a lower profile case measuring 15x45mm. If the success of the sold-out Holotype is any indication at all, the BlueRing will go quickly, and hold its value well in the second hand markets.

The BlueRing will be offered in a limited run of 300 units spread across three dials (black, silver, and blue). The BlueRing will be powered by one of two movements: Seiko's 6R15 (available only in the black-dial model) and the ETA 2824-2 (available in the silver or blue-dial models). It's an interesting marketing decision to split the model unevenly across two movements, and will likely make the black model the most sought after.

Take a look at the included illustrations, and check out the post on the Halios blog. The BlueRing will be available in the fall of this year.

 In the illustrious and glamorous world of watch reviews there are few things that motivate us at Watch Report like a good deal. Very few people buy products based solely on the price so most of us will choose the product with the best value because it is value that justifies a price. Justification for the price tag is paramount when it comes to watch shopping because watches are one of the few items that inhabit a price range between $5 and $1 million dollars and still share the same basic purpose. So what are we all paying for when we buy watches? Exclusivity? Quality? Or worse, brand? Lets take a look at a new model in the ever-growing market of indie watch manufacturers; the Holotype from Canada based Halios Watches.

Features of the Halios Holotype (Yellow Dial, PVD) dive watch:

• Water resistant to 300m/1000ft.
• 44mm stainless steel case (16mm thick).
• Available in PVD, brushed or bead-blasted finish.
• Sapphire crystal.
• Yellow or black dial.
• Miyota 8215 Automatic movement.
• 45 hour power reserve.
• Unidirectional bezel.
• Solid stainless steel bracelet with screwed links.
• Push button clasp with dive extension and flip lock.
• Limited to 300 units.
• Comes with rubber strap, tools, and travel case.