Atari celebrates 45 years of asteroids with unique wristwatch launch

The world of classic gaming meets horology in a fascinating collaboration as Atari and watchmaker Nubeo unveil a limited-edition collection of wristwatches to honor the iconic arcade game Asteroids on its 45th anniversary. This unique series, capturing the essence of nostalgia tied to the captivating gameplay of Asteroids, features designs that evoke the very spirit of retro entertainment while offering modern functionality.

Each of the five styles in the Atari and Nubeo Asteroids collection boasts a distinctly themed watch face showcasing scenes from the original 1979 hit. The watch hand ingeniously mimics the triangular spaceship known to players, firing at the alien asteroids that the game is renowned for. While some might expect a watch to simply tell time, the Asteroids collection goes a step further by incorporating gameplay elements into its design, making it a fascinating piece for collectors and fans alike.

In terms of specifications, the watches come housed in a standard 50mm case and are protected by a sapphire lens. Sporting a Japanese automatic movement, the timepieces feature three hands: a rotating spaceship that acts as the seconds hand and a flying saucer representing both the hour and minute hands. Adding to the playful nature of the watch, the asteroids on the face are painted with glow-in-the-dark pigments, drifting lazily on their own disc, creating a visual reminiscent of the game’s classic graphics. These features highlight the harmonious blend of nostalgia and innovation; however, it’s essential to note that the asteroids do not contribute to the watch’s timekeeping.

To set the time, the watches include a screw-down crown, and being powered by the motion of the wearer’s wrist means that battery replacements are a thing of the past. This focus on leveraging kinetic energy rather than traditional watch batteries illustrates a commitment to both tradition and modern technology. The design captures the essence of the game while ensuring that wearers remain mindful of their own movement, akin to the gameplay of the beloved classic.

The collection showcases vibrant color options including “pumpkin” orange, blue, “citrine” yellow, and red. Each variant alters the aesthetic of the watch face, enhancing its overall appeal. However, the standout piece has to be the black Nova Nightfall edition, which features a multicolored watch face, bringing back memories of playing Asteroids on the original Atari 2600 and its enhanced version, Asteroids Deluxe. Its artistry and nostalgia immediately capture attention, making it a conversation starter.

While the watch is certainly a feast for the eyes, it may not be the ideal device for timekeeping efficiency due to its busy face and lack of numbers which can hinder quick readings. The device is rated for water and dust resistance up to 5 ATM, ensuring durability, yet it’s essential to be aware that it comes with a two-year warranty, limited to replacing watch movements, hands, and dials.

Due to the limited nature of this collection, many styles have already sold out, notably the popular Nightfall edition featuring multicolored asteroids against the iconic red Atari logo. Priced at $500, the wristwatches offer a significant discount from their full MSRP of $1,650, drawing parallels to Nubeo’s prior success with their limited edition Space Invader watches, which also sold out rapidly.

As an aficionado of vintage-inspired designs, the emergence of this Asteroids watch has reignited my appreciation for traditional timepieces made with style and character, particularly in a market increasingly dominated by high-tech smartwatches. While not offering any of the functional benefits associated with today’s tech-laden wrist wear, the Asteroids watches serve as timeless pieces reflecting one’s love for classic arcade gaming. For those willing to invest, this watch merges artistry with a tribute to a defining era in gaming history, making it an attractive prospect for $500. In a market where personal expression and nostalgia reign supreme, the Atari Asteroids wristwatch collection stands out, celebrating its legacy in a unique and aesthetically appealing manner.