Introducing Nodus Unveils the Obscura II in Collaboration with Beers & Cameras

In early 2025, Nodus unveiled a timepiece developed in collaboration with the analog photography collective Beers & Cameras, introducing the world’s first exposure gauge bezel.

Patented by Nodus in 2024, this clever system is built around the well-known Sunny 16 Rule, a fundamental principle familiar to film photography enthusiasts. The 16-click rotating bezel features a shutter speed scale that aligns with an f-stop chart printed on the rehaut, effectively creating a slide-rule-style exposure calculator on the wrist. This analog tool is integrated into Nodus’s popular Sector platform. Now, in its second collaboration with Beers & Cameras, the Obscura returns as a non-limited edition, offered in two distinct configurations.

The Obscura II’s case is crafted from stainless steel, with the option of a DLC coating. It features a bronze bezel and crown, both treated with a DLC finish engineered to wear gradually over time, revealing the warm bronze beneath, a deliberate nod to the patina of vintage camera bodies. The robust construction ensures durability, while 100 meters of water resistance provides reassurance when overcast skies give way to rain.

Designed in partnership with Beers & Cameras for analog photographers, the Obscura II is built to perform both in the field and on the wrist, representing a thoughtful fusion of horology and photographic utility.

The dial introduces a new fumé gradient with a silver halite texture inspired by crystalline formations found on analog film. The seconds hand incorporates a film sprocket motif, further reinforcing the watch’s photographic identity. Compared to the original Obscura, another key update is the removal of the Beers & Cameras logo from the dial, the collaboration is now noted discreetly on the caseback, resulting in a cleaner and more refined display.

This project marks the first timepiece to integrate an exposure gauge complication based on the Sunny 16 Rule, a time-tested method for estimating correct exposure without the need for a light meter. The concept was developed from a patented innovation by Beers & Cameras founder Juan Martinez and distilled into an intuitive, wrist-worn instrument.

Originally conceived more than five years ago, the concept was officially patented in June 2024 (Patent No. 12,007,722). Nodus is the first brand to bring this complication to market, marking a compelling milestone at the intersection of watchmaking and photography.

How to Use the Exposure Gauge

Rotate the bezel clockwise to align your chosen lens aperture with the corresponding value on the chapter ring.

Next, locate the appropriate ISO marker on the dial ring according to your film speed: ISO 100 or +1 (ISO 200) / ISO 400 or +1 (ISO 800)

The ISO marker will indicate the corresponding shutter speed.

Based on prevailing lighting conditions — whether bright sun or lightly overcast skies with minimal shadows — use the shutter speed shown on the bezel to correctly set your camera and capture the image.

Powering the Obscura II is the Seiko NH38 automatic movement, operating at 21,600 vibrations per hour and delivering a power reserve of approximately 41 hours. The movement offers antimagnetic resistance of ≥ 4,800 A/m and is regulated by Nodus to an accuracy of +/- 10 seconds per day.

The watch is fitted with a stainless steel bracelet equipped with the Nodus Extension Module (NEM) clasp and quick-release spring bars for added practicality.

“Waqt” is the exclusive distributor of Nodus in the Middle East. The Obscura II is available for order through our online store or via direct contact. It is not a limited edition and is priced from EUR 650 (approximately AED 2,960), while the DLC-coated version is priced at 725 EUR which is equivalent to AED 3,300.