WM Watch WM220 Review – Limited Edition Dunhuang Series Heritage Diver

The WM Watch WM220 is a rare example of genuine originality on a platform often known for homages. WM Watch has leaned fully into cultural storytelling with this Dun Huang–themed release, merging functional diver capability with historical symbolism drawn from ancient murals and Silk Road motifs. More than just decoration, these references give the piece a narrative presence that sets it apart within its price bracket. Sent in for review, the WM220 arrives as a watch meant to be experienced in layers — visually, mechanically, and texturally — and it makes a compelling case from the moment it hits the wrist. Explore other WM Watch designs we reviewed Here.

WM Watch WM220 – DunHuang Series

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Design & Case

The WM220 begins with purposeful proportions. Despite the listing overstating the numbers, the case measures 40.8 mm in diameter and 15.44 mm in thickness, with a compact 46.9 mm lug-to-lug thanks to inverted end links. On a 6.5-inch wrist, the watch sits firmly with no overhang. Weight comes in at a substantial 169 g before sizing, underscoring its dense construction.

From above, the silhouette feels lean and athletic, helped by a shimmering blue bezel that shifts character depending on the angle of the light. The rounded case body contrasts with sharply defined lugs that taper into a bracelet featuring polished rice-bead center links — a flourish rarely found at this level.

Viewed from the side, the case architecture becomes even more engaging. Convex polished flanks flow into brushed lug hoods, separated by a crisp polished bevel that adds depth. The lugs curve subtly underneath, providing both ergonomic comfort and a fluid aesthetic. A larger-than-average screw-down crown, signed with the WM logo, reinforces the tactile and functional identity of the watch.

Layering defines the profile: a polished flank that folds under to reveal the lip of the screw-down caseback; a brushed coin-edge bezel gripping a convex ceramic insert; and finally a tall double-domed boxed sapphire crystal rising above it all. Together, these elements create a case that feels far more intricate and luxurious than its specifications or price suggest.

Movement & Crown

Inside the WM220 beats the Seiko NH35, a dependable automatic movement running at 21,600 bph with 24 jewels and a 41-hour power reserve. It brings hacking, manual winding, and proven robustness — an appropriate pairing for a diver built with practical durability in mind. Check out more diver watches in our curated selection.

Crown action is reinforced by the larger-than-average screw-down design, and the overall experience aligns with the NH35’s reputation for reliability and serviceability. It’s a familiar movement, but here it anchors a watch whose visual complexity benefits from a mechanical heart.

Bezel

The bezel is one of the WM220’s most captivating features. Its ceramic insert shifts through shades of deep navy and lighter sapphire, while the first quarter features a distinctive crisscross pattern that adds texture and contrast. Unlike most flat inserts, this one is convex, creating visual depth reminiscent of enamel work.

The brushed coin-edge surrounding it isn’t merely decorative — it delivers excellent grip. Rotation is tight and deliberate from start to finish, with zero back-play. Each click lands with a heavy, precise, mechanical certainty. Alignment at 12 o’clock is perfect. This is bezel action engineered to be both functional and deeply satisfying, the kind that invites repeated interaction purely for the tactile joy of it.

Bracelet

The bracelet is another standout element. Inverted end links allow for seamless integration with the case, maintaining the watch’s compact footprint. The 20 mm → 18 mm taper enhances comfort while contributing to the refined aesthetic. Brushed outer links complement the case finishing, while the five polished rice-bead central links introduce eye-catching brilliance without overwhelming the design.

Construction uses push pins — expected at this price — yet articulation is smooth, tolerances are tight, and overall solidity is high. The clasp continues the premium impression: a fully milled unit with beveled finishing, twin pushers, a solid folding wing, and a deployant mechanism that adds both ease and longevity. The engraved Dun Huang motif on the caseback completes the story, tying the aesthetic theme into a cohesive whole.

Crystal & Dial

Under the tall double-domed boxed synthetic sapphire crystal — treated with anti-reflective coating that flashes a soft bluish hue at the right angle — lies a dial that balances boldness and restraint. The inward-sloping brushed rehaut frames a thin black chapter ring marked with printed minutes, with blue rectangular accents every five minutes adding subtle color harmony with the bezel.

Applied chrome-edged batons define most hour markers, but the centerpiece is the four-edged star at 12 — fully lumed and symbolic in character. At 6 o’clock, a color-matched date window maintains symmetry and depth. The dial surface itself is a rich, cracked-rock texture in deep volcanic black, subtly revealing a Silk Road motif across the lower half. It feels deliberate and artistic without becoming literal.

Pencil-style hands with chrome edges provide clarity, while the blue-tone chrome seconds hand echoes the bezel’s color play, finishing with a lumed arrow pointer. In low light, the lume shines in a vivid green tone, with strong brightness and impressive longevity across markers and hands — consistent with the brand’s track record.

Summary

The WM220 stands out not only for its unconventional inspiration but also for the coherence of its execution. From the sculptural case to the convex ceramic bezel and cracked-texture dial, it blends artistry with capability in a way that feels genuinely original. The NH35 provides proven performance, while the bracelet, clasp, crystal, and overall finishing push well beyond what its category typically offers.

This isn’t just an attractive diver — it’s a watch with narrative identity, tactile richness, and memorable visual character. For collectors looking for something more than another homage, the WM220 makes a compelling case through craftsmanship, heritage, and distinction. The $200+ price reflects the premium build and original design of this timepiece.

WM220 Specifications

WM Watch WM220 – DunHuang Series

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