Cadence 4-Bit Binary Watch: Upping Your Geek-Cred

We geeks are a diverse bunch that run the gamut from pretty-boy, genius, millionaire entrepreneurs that regularly change the world, to socially inept, stereotypical nerds that really have no place leaving the confines of our cubicles (I fall somewhere in between). And our interests are equally as diverse. Don’t agree? Come to a big tech-centric trade show and do some people watching for a few hours, then we’ll talk. Until then, I’m sticking to my guns. But if there’s one thing all of we geeks have in common, it’s our love for cool gadgets--especially those that can be used to spur some interesting (and geeky) conversation.

Enter the Cadence 4-bit Binary watch. On the surface, the Cadence 4-bit Binary watch seems like nothing more than a basic time keeper. And on some levels, that’s all it is. Give its face more than a passing glance, however, and you’ll see what makes the watch so wonderfully geeky—its 4-bit labels. In lieu of numbers or roman numerals, the Cadence watch uses a 4-bit binary array to report the time.

The clock mechanism on the Cadence seems well made. I didn’t pull it apart for fear of damaging the thing with my giant club fingers, but it’s solid, has some heft, and feels good in the hand. The leather straps on the model I took a look at also seem well made, although they’re not quite on the same level as some designer watches I’ve had. The leather is a bit tougher and the stitching had some uneven separation. Honestly though, no one is going to care about the straps. It’s the watch face that’s the star of this show.

The specifications of the Cadence 4-bit Binary watch include:

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  • Case made from jewelry grade (316L) stainless steel.
  • Saddle stitched two part leather strap with stainless steel buckle.
  • Miyota quartz movement.
  • Five year limited warranty on movement and hands.
  • Case size:  40mm diameter, 9mm thickness.
  • Water resistant to 3ATM.
  • Sapphire coated quartz glass.

Since I’m writing about a watch, I guess the first point I should make is that the Cadence 4-bit Binary watch keeps good time. In the few weeks I’ve had it on hand, it’s been right on the mark, so score one for its Miyota quarts movement. One issue I have to point out, however, is the lack of any lighting or glow on the watch hands. The binary designators and second hand on the watch glow in the dark, but the hour and minute hands do no, so it’s difficult to read in the dark.

Overall though, I dig this thing. The Cadence 4-bit Binary watch is currently on-sale for $69.99 (regular price $90). Although it’s no Brietling, the Cadence 4-bit is a cool piece of personal gear that’s certain to up your geek-cred. I know I’ll be wearing this puppy the next time I’m off to a tech-event...