Nodus Sector Field

Review and photos by Mike Razak

I’m going to try something new here. Typically my reviews blend in an unending stream of paragraphs describing the watch, citing the specs, and opining on its merits (or demerits). Here, after a brief introduction, I’ll be focusing on the highs and lows of the watch with photos and photo commentary. I’ll wrap up with my impressions of the watch as a whole (since I won’t spend much time on specs, a table at the end of the review will tell you everything you need to know). There will still be a bit of the normal stuff, but the presentation and focus will be shifted. Think of it as a photo review, if you’d like. Hope you enjoy. 

You’re not a stranger to Nodus. At least I hope you aren’t. It’s not unfair to say they are one of the watch world’s microbrand darlings. It’s also not unfair to say that they produce some of the highest-quality, best value timepieces in the microbrand space–and perhaps beyond. We’ve reviewed three of their watches on the site: the debut Trieste, the Retrospect, and the Avalon. Since our last review in 2019, the brand has released two brand new models and two revamps of prior models for a total of 6 model lines in 3 years. (Nodus is known as much for their quality as they are for how prolific they are).

Their latest model line–though it may not be by the time you read this–is the Sector. Originally released as a diver, the family has expanded to include the Field, the Pilot, and the Sport. As we’ve come to expect, Nodus gave us a few new things and did well the things we’re familiar with. The Sector Field is no exception to Nodus’ high standards. But what stands out? Here’s the good and the not so good.

First impressions, unsurprisingly, are good of the Nodus Sector Field, here in Sequoia green. What stands out at a glance is the sharp edges and the contrasting blasted/satin and polished finishing, as well as the double radial gradient dial with a raised central disc.

The Case

A few things stand out when viewing the Sector case profile. Obviously, the big crown, which is no problem to operate. Then, the curved shape does indeed help it wear very comfortably. Third, the lugs seem to get thicker/deeper as they reach their blocky terminus, something I’ve not seen before but to me conveys ruggedness and durability (I don’t know why). Finally, and amongst my criticisms of the watch, the drilled lug holes are placed so close to the polished chamfer that they seem like an afterthought. 

Look at the crystal—flat sapphire with a beveled edge. But what’s underneath is a domed side, not visible and in aid of legibility at basically any angle. This shot is at less than 10°, and you can still tell that it’s about 1:02! As far as I know, this type of crystal has not been done before. Nodus had to have this made just for them. Bravo.

The Dial

Thick printed numbers and a raised 24-hour disc with sandwiched cutouts give this dial lots of depth. The bold obelisk handset lends more ruggedness. The subtle grain adds texture. And look at the color matching between the seconds hand and 24-hour cutouts! This dial is executed to near perfection.

Perhaps my biggest gripe with the entire Sector line is the cramped 4:30 date (except on the pilot, which features a stacked day-date display). The date wheel font on the Sector Dive was criticized for being too small to read, so Nodus increased the font size accordingly. But the real problem was the fact that the window just doesn’t fit where it’s placed. See how its edge is RIGHT up against the 4? And how the date numbers barely fit? It’s a rare miss for the boys at Nodus.

If you expected anything other than stellar lume on the Sector Field, you clearly aren’t familiar with Nodus. The Avalon I owned exceeded many far more expensive brands. This watch is no different.

The Bracelet, Caseback, and On the Wrist

You should look at the above photo and be simultaneously amazed and disappointed. Amazed by the quality of the finishing, the awesome design of the case, and the integration of a bracelet with beveled lugs. Disappointed because the bracelet lacks any sort of flow from this case. There’s an ugly drop off from the end link to the rest of the bracelet. It’s not  quite as pronounced on the wrist, but it is still visible. And I’ll concede this is purely aesthetic: the drop-off has no effect on the great comfort or function of the bracelet.

Nodus does not and has never messed about with quality on their bracelets or the clasps. While this one isn’t a revolution, the execution is wonderful. Note the thick polished bevels that help the clasp mirror the case’s dual finishing. I never had an issue with this on the wrist.

This is what I like to see on casebacks. Limited extraneous text or specs and a clean graphic, if any at all. Looking at the bracelet, I do wish they’d opted for integrated quick-release spring bars.

Even with the endlink issue I pointed out, the overall look of the Sector Field on its bracelet is great. And the same goes for almost any strap. It’s comfortable on the wrist and easy to swap—leather, rubber, NATO, or the bracelet.

Thoughts

Nodus has made clear that they improve their quality and execution with each new release. So by virtue of being one of their latest watches, the Sector Field is also one of their best. For me, it’s held back by the date window and the bracelet drop-off. But mostly the date window. If you like the watch, and don’t mind those things, then you will undoubtedly be happy with it. Although the Sector Field is currently sold out, a restock is expected this summer, and you can head to the Nodus site for more info and to sign-up to be notified when it’s available again.⬩