Auch verfügbar auf 
Deutsch
The traser P99 Iris Tactical Limited Edition not only lights up by itself and without luminous material, it literally has the knack. A quarter rotation of the bezel is enough to completely darken the dial. I present this ingenious mechanism and many other highlights of this new product in this first test report…
YouTube Video Review & Hands-on traser P99 Iris Tactical Limited Edition:
By loading the video, you agree to YouTube’s privacy policy.
Learn more
traser in the WATCHDAVID shop
It has been 6 years since the first contact between the Swiss brand traser and myself. Over the last few years, I have mainly taken watch photography of the various watch models, but I have also carried out some watch reviews of the functional traser timepieces. Now, over half a decade later, I am proud to call myself a dealer of the prestigious brand. Whether I wanted to become a traser partner at all was never a question for me. After all, I had years to be convinced by the excellent quality and functionality of these watches. I don’t know if I know a collection inside out as well as the one from traser.
So this collection has found its way into my shop. And we are ushering in the new ‘traser era’ with a new watch that represents nothing less than a small revolution. But first things first…
Traditionally revolutionary: traser
The new P99 Iris Tactical Limited Edition watch fits seamlessly into the history of traser. In 1989, the watch manufacturer became known worldwide with a self-illuminating wristwatch. Unlike conventional wristwatches, whose indices are coated with luminous material, traser watches do not need to be exposed to an external light source in order to absorb light, then glow in the dark and slowly fade. traser watches are characterised by their constantly and permanently illuminated time display. Sportsmen on land and under water, watch enthusiasts or special forces are therefore no longer dependent on having to place their watch under a light before use. The newfound spontaneity opens up new possibilities for the wearer to experience adventures or complete missions.
However, traser watches, like conventional models, used to have one small drawback. If the indices lit up, they lit up – whether you wanted them to or not. For professionals in particular, it can be a decisive advantage not to be recognised by a hastily wandering luminous dot. traser has now solved this problem with the help of two patented technologies.
Patented: traser’s new camouflage function
The first only improves what was already good. The Super Powered trigalight, traser’s unique self-luminous technology, has become even brighter. The Swiss manufacturer has developed a special coating that gives the capillaries greater luminosity. The watch should retain this for decades. The traser P99 Iris Tactical Limited Edition is the first model to feature the new Super Powered trigalights.
However, I find the second innovation even more exciting. The special mechanism can be admired by turning the bezel 90 degrees anti-clockwise. This closes the so-called iris diaphragm, which consists of 16 louvres. When open, i.e. after a quarter turn clockwise, the lamellae disappear under the edge of the case. The iris diaphragm is strongly reminiscent of the aperture of a lens. This makes sense, as it fulfils the same purpose: to let more or less light through as required. The mechanism is very smooth to operate and never feels bulky. According to traser, the technology is maintenance-free as no lubrication of the blades is required.
100% functionality: the case of the traser P99 Iris Tactical Limited Edition
The design of the case is intended to support the ‘camouflage function’ of the tool watch and not attract too much attention. As a result, the robust stainless steel case has a matt black, unobtrusive PVD coating, which is pleasantly discreet and draws attention to the important dial. With its screw-down back and screw-down crown, the case is water-resistant to a depth of 100 metres. This means that the traser P99 Iris Tactical Limited Edition is not a designated diver’s watch.
For more ambitious operations under water, it is advisable to choose a watch with a water resistance of up to 200 metres. The P99 is therefore more of a versatile sports watch that can definitely get wet. You will find a limitation number engraved on the case back. Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating protects the dial and iris diaphragm from external influences and ensures that readability is always optimal despite high levels of light. A day and date window can be found at 3 o’clock.
With a diameter of 46 millimetres, the traser P99 Iris Tactical Limited Edition is not for delicate wrists – or so you might think. On my (somewhat narrower) wrist, the model nevertheless impresses with its pleasant proportions and appears narrower thanks to the wide bezel. The size of the P99 Iris has two useful aspects. Firstly, the watch is easier to operate and secondly, it is easier to read. This is particularly beneficial to the wearer when they do not have the peace and quiet to operate a delicate watch. The ergonomically shaped bezel further improves usability.
Plenty of choice: the straps
The traser P99 Iris Tactical Limited Edition is powered by a Swiss quartz movement produced by Ronda. It is the 517.
Three different bracelets provide countless options for customising the P99 Iris. A universal evergreen is the textile strap, which is available either in black (reference 111642 traser P99 Iris Tactical Black) or in camouflage look (reference 111460 traser P99 Iris Tactical Black). It becomes even more functional with the black rubber strap (reference 111461 traser P99 Iris Tactical Black.)
My conclusion on the traser P99 Iris Tactical Limited Edition
traser has achieved an exciting update with its new, limited edition P99. The importance of the two patented technologies not only for the tool watch but also for the brand itself should be emphasised. traser’s flagship feature for decades was the permanent brightness of the indices. It’s almost ironic that this permanent brightness is now disappearing – without having to do without it completely, but rather when it is necessary. With its functionality, the patented iris diaphragm is in keeping with traser’s tradition of innovation.
A robust case, good quality and a wide selection of different straps leave nothing to be desired. Nevertheless, you should be aware that you are not buying a diving watch, but a sports watch. Then you will have a lot of fun with the traser P99 Iris Tactical Limited Edition.
Prices and availability
You now have the opportunity to purchase your P99 Iris Tactical Limited Edition in my shop. Important to know: the special model is limited to just 300 units. So it’s worth not hesitating too long. Choose the bracelet you like best. With the two textile straps, the Toolwatch is priced at 920.00 euros, with the rubber strap at 980.00 euros. You can find all the important links below.
More about traser and the P99 Iris Tactical Limited Edition
Click here for the watch in the shop
Even more traser articles in my blog
Gallery
