he Nereide model by Venezianico is enhanced with the Renaissance etching technique, merging tradition and modernity in a timeless and refined aesthetic.

The Morelli brothers reinterpret the Nereide, their signature diver, with a neoclassical motif inspired by acanthus leaves, a symbol of harmony and purity. The 316L steel is crafted using an ancient artisanal technique that adds depth and a three-dimensional effect.

Etching is a technique that originated during the Renaissance and was perfected in Italy by masters such as the Venetian Giambattista Tiepolo, who used it to create intricate details and add depth to surfaces. The process involves applying a protective layer on the metal, upon which the design is engraved.

The plate is then immersed in an acid bath, which corrodes the exposed parts. Ink is subsequently applied by hand to the engravings, highlighting the contrasts and giving the design relief.

The decoration covers the entire case, including the lugs and the unidirectional rotating bezel, with a neoclassical pattern inspired by ancient Greece and revived by Renaissance masters. This engraving gives the case a classic charm that harmonises with the minimalist black dial and polished indexes, creating a perfect balance between aesthetics and functionality.

The dial, protected by an anti-reflective sapphire crystal, enhances the watch’s elegance with indexes and hands treated with Swiss Super-LumiNova Black, emitting a delicate green glow to ensure readability even in low light conditions.

The case back pays homage to Venice with the Lion of Saint Mark, symbol of the Serenissima Republic. This winged lion, an emblem of strength and wisdom, has been an icon of the lagoon city for centuries, appearing on coins, banners, and artworks. Its representation on the Nereide Acquaforte’s case back is a tribute to the unique history and character of Venice.

The timepiece is completed by an aged leather strap, crafted by master artisans from Tuscany, one of the most renowned leather-working districts. The aging treatment, achieved using brushes that create light abrasions, gives the leather a worn yet refined appearance. The buckle, engraved with the same motif as the case, ensures aesthetic continuity and highlights attention to detail.

The Nereide Acquaforte celebrates Renaissance and neoclassical art through an engraving technique rediscovered and reinterpreted in a contemporary key. This model reflects the passion of Alessandro and Alberto Morelli for Venetian art and history, a constant source of inspiration that they wish to revive and share with the world through their creations.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

• CASE: 316L Stainless Steel, Ø42mm
• DIMENSIONS: Thickness 11.9mm, lug-to-lug 49.00mm
• DECORATIONS: Engravings filled with black ink
• MOVEMENT: Cal. Miyota 9039, automatic
• CRYSTAL: Sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating
• LUMINOUS MATERIAL: Swiss Super-LumiNova Black
• BEZEL: 316L Stainless Steel, 120 clicks
• WATER RESISTANCE: 20ATM (= 200m)
• STRAP: Hand-aged leather, engraved buckle