The appeal is not just its individuality, but also its overall balance. Impressions of the Corum Admiral Legend 38

This time, I'll be reviewing Corum's new 2020 model, the Admiral Legend 38. This 38mm case is a new addition to the Admiral collection, which has tended to be somewhat larger in recent years, and embodies the charm of the Admiral collection. As someone who prefers compact models, this was a watch that caught my eye. A bracelet model was added in September 2021, and this model is gaining more and more attention.

The Admiral often draws attention for its distinctive gun blue color and the indexes that feature the international maritime signal flag, but after wearing it for a while, I felt that it is a well-packaged model with an excellent balance of design and an appeal that matches a variety of styles.So, let's review it, focusing on the significantly updated appearance while retaining the design codes of the previous model.

Corum Admiral Legend 38

　The Admiral Collection traces its roots back to the Admiral's Cup, first introduced in 1960. This watch commemorated the yacht race of the same name, held by a British sailing club, and was a square model with water resistance, a rare feature at the time. Starting with the 83 model, the collection adopted the 12-sided bezel, which is still used today, featuring the international maritime signal flag indices, and the signature gun blue color.

　Gun blue comes from the color of firearms, which are coated with iron tetroxide using chemicals to improve their corrosion resistance (this process is called bluing). Blueing is called black dye in Japanese metalworking, and the coating itself is quite black. By treating the surface with gun oil, the blue color appears more pronounced in the reflection of light, as seen in this work.

　As of March 2021, the Admiral Legend 42 and Legend 42 Chronograph models in the lineup both had a 42mm case diameter. Now, 20 years later, this model has been added with a more compact 38mm diameter. Comparing the two models, it's clear that the design has undergone significant changes.

　The case and bezel of this model are made of stainless steel dyed gun blue with PVD, and the dial and strap are also gun blue. In September 2021, a bracelet model with a gun blue base and pink gold accents on the link parts was also released as a Japan-exclusive model.

　The watch features a center second hand and a date display at 3 o'clock. The small second hand on the previous 42mm model felt a bit cramped, so the center second hand is a welcome change. The distinctive 12-sided bezel is accentuated with 18K rose gold, while the crystal has been changed to a round shape and the crown guard is understated, successfully giving the watch an elegant impression.

Dial and index details

　The hour and minute hands are now painted in rose gold, without any luminous paint, giving the watch a more solid impression. The seconds hand is shaped like the Corum key logo.

　Admiral's index is based on the motif of international signal flags. International signal flags are numbers and letters that correspond to each other and were used as a universal means of communication between ships within visual range in an era before advanced communication devices were developed. Each flag is depicted with crisp detail and carefully outlined in gold. All colors are vibrant, vivid, and sharp.　

　The dial features a variety of patterns, including a record-like streaked pattern, a matte-finish base that connects to the indices, and a flat surface in the center. This dial's accents guide the eye to the indices, resulting in excellent visibility. The 12-sided central section is also similar in shape to the 12-sided bezel design, effectively capturing the individuality of this model. The date disc is also matched to the dial color, enhancing the overall sense of unity.

Surprisingly, it's highly rated regardless of the outfit.

　When you wear it, the gun blue color that covers the entire watch creates a calm impression, while the rose gold color of the hands and bezel creates a contrast in the design, adding a touch of elegance without being too flashy. The choice of muted rose gold instead of yellow gold produces a good result.

　Contrary to my expectations, I also found it interesting that the watch pairs well with a variety of styles, including dress shirts, casual denim shirts, and knitwear. The compact size and consistent color of the entire watch give the design a clean, unified look, making it compatible with a variety of styles. This is a welcome feature in a time when timepieces suitable for any occasion are gaining attention.

　The image color, gun blue, is a deep shade like dark navy denim, and although it is normally black, it takes on a metallic blue hue when it reflects light. What is striking is how it stands out against blue skies, oceans, and strong sunlight. The impression was so good that I was tempted to make the difficult request to "check it outdoors if possible." The rose gold-colored hour, minute, and second hands contrast well with the dial and reflect light. In slightly lit environments, the mirror-finished hands reflect light, making them highly visible.

　The alligator strap is slightly thin and flat, soft and comfortable to wear. Two different lengths of strap are available, and this watch came with the long type. For me, whose wrist is 17.5cm, it felt a little long, with only one hole remaining in the tightening direction. The optional short type is about 2cm shorter, so it's best to choose based on the thickness of your wrist.

　Although we weren't able to check it out this time, a three-link bracelet for another model is also available, which is flexible and comfortable to wear. It's a compact model that suits people with thin wrists, and considering that comfortable straps and bracelets are available in colors that match the image, it seems that this model was designed with a focus on comfort.

Attractive appearance but lacking in performance

　What's disappointing about this model is that it's only water resistant to a modest 50m. The name comes from marine sports, and the model that inspired it was one with improved water resistance (compared to the standards of the time). Therefore, I believe that increasing the water resistance to around 100m for this model would better express the model's origins and history and increase its appeal. Given that it's clad in a gun blue color that stands out outdoors, this improvement in performance should increase its appeal.

　The price tag of 968,000 yen (including tax) may seem a bit high considering that it is an essential three-hand model. However, the craftsmanship of the dial and indices is convincing to a certain extent. The fact that it has an elegant, yet not eccentric, look that matches both dressy and casual styles is one of the plus points for purchasing.

　After wearing it for a while, I realized that this model has excellent packaging. Its casual yet unique appearance and thin, compact fit are highly praised. I feel that this model embodies the charm of the Admiral Collection, and I hope that it will become a core model in the collection and gain more attention in the future.