Mountain Rescue volunteer behind British watch start-up has created a timepiece that can be relied on “when conditions get awkward”
British watch brand Ontic has launched its first collection, the Utility 40, a solar-powered titanium tool watch designed, assembled and tested in the UK.
Founded by former Mountain Rescue volunteer John Hickling, Ontic positions the Utility 40 as a no-nonsense instrument watch aimed at professionals and enthusiasts who prioritise reliability over aesthetics.
The brand says the watch has been engineered to function in demanding conditions without the need for charging rituals, frequent servicing or fragile mechanical components.
The 40mm Utility 40 features a case made from hardened TiX titanium, Ontic’s proprietary specification of Grade 2 titanium with a diamond-like carbon surface treatment.
The material is around 40% lighter than steel and up to four times harder, offering improved durability while remaining comfortable for daily wear.
Mr Hickling said: “We set out to make a proper tool watch – something light, tough and reliable that doesn’t need attention. No rituals. No charging. No fragile mechanics. Just a watch that gets on with the job.
“Building it in Britain means we can check every detail and support it for the long term. It’s slower and harder, but it’s the right way to do it.”
Each model is supplied on a custom FKM rubber strap with easy-change spring bars, with an optional TiX titanium bracelet featuring an on-the-fly extension.
Powering the watch is the Swiss-made Ronda Solartech 215 movement, which charges from natural or artificial light and can run for up to eight months in complete darkness.
Accuracy is rated at better than plus or minus one second per day under normal operating temperatures, while the movement is designed to withstand shocks and magnetic interference. Ontic says the solar calibre eliminates the need for battery changes or routine servicing under typical use.
Legibility and functionality were central to the design brief. The dial features a solar-textured surface with applied ceramic indices, Super-LumiNova and a flat sapphire crystal with triple anti-reflective coating.
A 120-click unidirectional bezel with brushed ceramic insert is fitted as standard, allowing wearers to time events, track a second time zone or navigate by the sun on selected models.
The Utility 40 has been launched across four sub-collections. The CORE line is designed for everyday wear with a clean titanium finish and understated colour palette.
DIVE models are configured for underwater use with higher contrast and enhanced clarity, while the DUTY range features a blacked-out TiX case for discreet, low-reflection applications.
The TRIBUTE series includes the MR1, inspired by UK Mountain Rescue, with a portion of profits donated to support Mountain Rescue teams across the UK.
Prices start at £599.