The future is bright and orange – Borealis Porto Covo Nazaré – Limited Edition Cerakote Case

Like every watch enthusiast, I enjoy the mainstream side of watches. Even if many people feel the need to be different, I love the good old “boring” stuff. But when I started writing about watches, I always wanted to experience a different side of the hobby—not the usual black-dial round watch, but an explosion of creativity. For that, the microbrand scene is the best place to look.

One of the oldest brands I reviewed was Borealis. The Portuguese brand has been around for a while and is probably one of the longstanding OGs in the space. They’ve always been kind to me and back then I was amazed by how they managed to put out so many quality watches at such a staggering price. I was hooked.

Their GMTs were among the first to use the “true” Miyota movement while still staying accessible to enthusiasts. It’s a brand that has evolved, but at a pace we can all keep up with—especially on the price side.

 Then last year, one of my favorite watches hit the scene: the Porto Covo. This watch wasn’t only outstanding in terms of quality, it was also unique in execution. The 3D numerals still make me happy every time I see them, and the integrated-style “H” link feels as utilitarian as the bead-blasted case. Tool-watch style, but done with taste.

And today, we have an evolution of that design: the Nazaré Limited Edition, now with an orange Cerakote case. The inspiration comes from Nazaré—famous for monstrous winter waves that can reach nearly 30 meters. In those conditions, if you’re surfing, you need something bright, light, and legible. The Porto Covo LE is here to deliver.

This is going to be fun, guys. Stay tuned.

The specifications

The new Porto Covo can be seen from a mile away. It’s bright and saturated, but somehow still a bit muted at the same time. The case keeps the shape we all know and love: it feels integrated, but it can still be worn with almost any strap (more on that later). With 40mm in diameter and 42.5mm lug-to-lug, this is a compact watch that can fit almost anyone.

 The case shape is sharp and angular, with no rounded surfaces apart from the bezel and crown. The bezel has the same grippy profile and is very easy to manipulate. I quite enjoy the action: no play, nice and precise, exactly as it should be. The brushed insert gives a sense of motion, the numerals are clear, but it’s really the orange triangle that steals the show.

 And no, I didn’t forget about the orange case—it’s impossible to. The Cerakote coating (with steel underneath) has a great tactile feel. It’s fully matte, and it isn’t just there to look cool: it’s there to be visible. When was the last time a case color was genuinely functional? Here, it is. The application looks clean, and knowing Borealis, I’d expect it to hold up very well over time.

 I was also a bit concerned about the price, because Cerakote isn’t the simplest process. As I understand it, the part is cleaned and prepped so the coating can properly bond, then Cerakote is sprayed on in an even layer, and finally it’s cured so it hardens into a durable, long-lasting finish. It’s not a quick job. 

Coming back to the Porto Covo: the details are excellent. From the inner bezel with its orange line, to the black floating indices, to the nicely framed date at 6 o’clock with an orange background—everything screams attention to detail. There are two shades of orange, and they’re not just for looks. The date matches the brushed sunray dial, while the matte hands match the case and stay visible against the watch face. No complaints—only compliments.

 The black indices are lumed. They’re not as bright as the original version, but honestly, with this level of contrast, they don’t need to be.

 Flip the watch over and you’re greeted by the stainless steel caseback with the mermaid motif—one of those signature Borealis touches we’ve come to expect. Under the hood is the Miyota 9015 with date. I also love how

the grey tone around it ties in perfectly with the indices.

 The watch has a screw-down crown at 4 o’clock and gives the Porto Covo 300 meters of water resistance. Yes—300.

On the wrist

What can I say? It’s a different watch compared to the original Porto Covo. The nylon strap not only gives it a sportier vibe than the metal bracelet, but it also makes the watch feel lighter overall. At 11.6mm tall, the Porto Covo is perfect for water sports—or any active use, really. It works very well on my 6.25-inch wrist, and I think it will work for most people with smaller or larger wrists too.

 Legibility is the whole point of the Nazaré Limited Edition, and the orange absolutely delivers. Orange is one of the most legible colors underwater, and it shows here on the dial as well. The contrast is outstanding, and even though the hands are orange too, the matte surface makes them pop. It’s a very monochromatic composition, and it all comes together—even down to the orange Cerakote buckle.

 Borealis made this watch for the enthusiast community. I wore it mostly to the gym and outdoors, and that honestly feels like its natural habitat. The sporty nature and bright color are ideal for anyone who loves that tool-watch feeling with a touch of refinement. It really excels in this category.

 Comparing the original version with this limited edition makes you realize how light and versatile the watch can be. With a change of case and color scheme, it becomes a different beast—more extreme. You could call it the Porto Covo on steroids.

Concluding thoughts

The new Porto Covo Nazaré – Limited Edition Cerakote Case is ideal for people who like to test their watches—and themselves. It’s a watch that not only has the water resistance, but also the construction to be a proper adventure companion.

 Legibility is of course a highlight, and although the black lume isn’t as bright, it doesn’t need to be. The contrast does the job on its own.

 The Porto Covo Nazaré – Limited Edition Cerakote Case is limited to just 50 pieces, which means they will fly in no time. According to Borealis, there’s no restock regardless of demand—which is honestly quite admirable.

 Will we see other Cerakote colors? A green military version, beige, maybe more? The sky’s the limit—and as we know, Borealis is here to stay.

The price is another strong point. At £386, this feels like one of the best values out there for what is, effectively, a ceramic-coated watch.

 I’m hoping the pictures do it justice—and that you managed to snatch one of these beauties. You won’t see two in the same place.

For more information please visit: https://www.borealiswatch.com/en-gb/collections/diver-watches/products/borealis-porto-covo-nazare-cerakote-diver-watch-limited-edition?variant=52686987493723

Technical Specifications

Orange Cerakote case

Miyota 9015 (date) for practical use

40mm case diameter – compact, controlled, precise

42.5mm lug-to-lug – balanced presence on the wrist

11.6mm thickness – low profile, high performance

20mm lug width – versatile, secure fit