Benlydesign launches pre-orders for limited-edition Desktop 95, a watch that offers a retro Windows 95 feel to your wrist. This is important since the launch is about appealing to collectors interested in niche tech-nostalgia and powerful everyday utility, which is the brand's play on combining software-ish aesthetics and industrial strength in one.
Retro Windows 95 themed timepiece features Swiss quartz movement and extreme durability
In the specs, Desktop 95 is a watch with a 316L Stainless Steel case that measures 39 x 44.5 mm and a 10 mm thickness. Swiss quartz power will be used for the timekeeping accuracy. Turquoise and beige dial options, with mouse cursor hands, will be available for a full retro-computing experience.
Specifications
- Movement: Swiss quartz
- Case Material: 316L stainless steel
- Case Dimensions: 39 x 44.5 mm
- Thickness: 10 mm
- Water Resistance: 5 ATM
Benlydesign asserts that Desktop 95 is shock-resistant up to extreme test conditions that simulates a drop of 1 meter on hard wooden ground. This impact results in a force of up to 5000 G on the case. And this is for a common watch weighing 150 grams.
It's 5 ATM resistant. And the watch straps have a width of 20 mm for easy personalization.
Desktop 95 will start at $159 USD (~$159) for leather strap/Milanese loop options and $169 USD (~$169) for steel bracelet. The watch will be available in limited quantities, with only 500 worldwide to appeal to early adopters.
The desktop 95's shipping is estimated for November 2026. That's a long time for a limited-edition consumer good to be in the pre-order stage, more than a year away. Be prepared for such a long duration of shipping.
Source: IXBT
mouse cursor hands are a nice touch
Does the 20mm strap width mean I can swap it for my old NATO straps or is it a proprietary weird shape?
The spec sheet confirms standard 20mm width so yes any generic strap works. You should be all set for custom looks. What color do you have in mind?
5000 G shock resistance sounds impressive on paper but a Swiss quartz movement is not built for that kind of abuse. The balance staff will likely bend or break long before the case survives.