Video review of the GPW Field Watch
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Saturday, 18 June 2016
Tuesday, 14 June 2016
Brera Orologi Prodiver | Video Review
Don’s hands on video review of the Brera Orologi Prodiver.
The post Brera Orologi Prodiver | Video Review appeared first on WatchReport.com | Real. Honest. Reviews. | Authentic Watch Reviews |.
Benarus Moray Vintage | Video Review
Ariel’s video review of the Benarus Moray Vintage, and affordable and classic looking dive watch.
The post Benarus Moray Vintage | Video Review appeared first on WatchReport.com | Real. Honest. Reviews. | Authentic Watch Reviews |.
GPW Field Model | Watch Review
GPW Field Model
GPW Field Model Specifications:
- 2-Year Manufacturer Warranty
- Titanium Case (62 grams without strap)
- Sapphire Crystal
- 200M (600ft) water-resistant.
- Automatic movement (24 Jewels) Seiko NH35
- Non-Radioactive Military Luminous for readability in the dark
- 22mm lug width
- 42mm case width
- 48mm lug to lug
- Screw-in locked crown
- Screwed in case back
Price: $349 USD
The GPW Field model is a watch that has certainly become one of my favorite affordable watches in the past few months, and with good reason. First and foremost, the size and style appeal to me, but it also has many elements I personally like in a watch these days. I always wear and test out every watch I get sent for review, some more than others. It stands to reason that if you really like the look and feel of the watch, you are going to bond with it even more. That would be the case here. I have worn the GPW on its supplied thick leather strap, on my personal Hirsch Accent rubber as well as a well worn canvas strap. I have worn it out to dinner, doing work around the house and even in the pool. It is a very well rounded watch that I really have found no faults with.
Of course the design is similar to the Rolex Explorer, but it is more inspired by than a direct homage, though the use of the Mercedes hands makes people instantly think of Rolex. That is probably my one negative of the GPW Field Watch, if they had chosen a different set of hands, it would have separated itself even more. All of that said, the hands do match well with the dial and case, and the dial has minimal text.
The case itself as stated is constructed of titanium and has a blasted finish that really tones down the watch. This is not a watch that I feel that can really double as your dress watch. These days people wear whatever they want for any occasion, which is fine, but if we are talking traditionally here, definitely not a dress piece. That said, it is more than at home for being out in the “field”, hiking, camping, swimming (on a rubber or canvas strap), and of course in jeans and a t shirt.
The crown does screw down and seats very well into the case, though the edges of the crown are a little sharp. They don’t dig into the wrist or make it uncomfortable, but you can feel the sharp edges when running your fingers across it. Being equipped with a domed sapphire crystal will keep it accumulating scratches from most objects, though with these domed crystals there is a trade off. The reflection is to the point I can see my face in it when looking at the time.
Keeping in mind that this is a $349 watch, you are not going to find a high end movement here. You will however find a quite suitable movement in the form of the Seiko NH35. While slightly lower beat than the Miyota 9015, it is quite capable. You will be seeing this movement in a few upcoming watches/brands as getting hold of the 9015 has been a little difficult as of late. Concerning the case back, nothing glamorous here, and that is just what I would expect with a Field watch such as this. No frills solid titanium case back with the appropriate information etched on.
The example I have for review comes with a tan leather strap with white stitching. It is a very capable leather strap and quite thick at almost 4mm. It is large enough to fit at least an 8 inch wrist, and is 22mm throughout with no taper. If this strap does not strike your fancy, then take a look at the GPW website as they have an array of leather and rubber options.
If you were wondering what it looks like on the Hirsch Accent I talked about earlier, here you go. This is one of my favorite go to straps for a casual/sport watch.
With its modest 42mm X 48mm case size, it wears slightly larger than a Rolex Explorer does, but of course is much lighter in weight due to the titanium construction. I feel the tan leather strap really does suit this watch, and is very comfortable right out of the box.
7 1/2 inch wrist for reference
Sometimes I see a watch such as this, with large numerals and markers that look like they will just glow all night long and am left very disappointed. Fortunately that is not the case with the GPW Field Model. It is on par with some of the best microbrand luminescence and is easily readable in the dark.
As I stated in the beginning, I really could find no faults with the GPW Field Model. It is comfortable, good looking, light weight and best of all, affordable. It is also from a company whose sister brand is Arctos Elite, in case you were afraid this might be a flash in the pan or one hit wonder. I definitely enjoyed wearing and reviewing this model, and I hope to see more affordable titanium watches from GPW soon.
Please leave your comments in the field below the picture gallery.
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Saturday, 11 June 2016
Brera Orologi ProDiver | Watch Review
Brera Orologi ProDiver
Brera Orologi ProDiver Specifications:
- Model: BRDV2C4704
- Case Material: Stainless Steel (316L) Gray IP, Brushed / Polish
- Case Dimensions: 47 mm
- Case Thickness: 16.5 mm
- Case Length: 54mm
- Weight 145 grams
- Screw Down Crown
- Bezel: Internal: Black / Blue, Rotating
- Domed Sapphire Crystal with AR coating
- Movement: Swiss ISA 8371/2010- Hr/Min Indicated by Central Hands- Multi-function Chronograph- 30 min Counter @ 9 hr- Small Second @ 3 hr- Date Window @ 6 hr- End-of-Life (EOL) Indicator
- Strap: Genuine Rubber
- Strap Width: 23 mm > 20 mm
- Water Resistant: 30 ATM (300 mt – 1000 ft)
Retail Price $995 USD
When it comes to Brera Orologi, they are not a micro-brand, nor are they a large watch manufacturer like Seiko or Rolex. They are somewhere in between with a nice array of models to choose from and sold direct and also in stores like Nordstrom. Their latest model, the Brera Orologi ProDiver, is not your average dive watch. Like most Brera Orologi watches, the ProDiver is fashion forward while still retaining elements us watch enthusiasts look for, like high quality case finishing, sapphire crystal, screw down case back and crown and quality rubber strap.
Case finishing and details are always above par when it comes to Brera Orologi watches. As I have said before, a movement does not make a watch. While I know many want an automatic movement at this price, when you look this watch over and realize all that went into it, if it had an automatic chronograph movement it would be double the price. That said, $995 is not cheap by any means. But if you really start to compare the dial work, multiple case finishes and style, I think you can see where the price comes from. It may seem like I am giving the Brera Orologi Prodiver a lot of praise, and to an extent I am. If I am being perfectly honest though, the design and size is just not for me. At 47mm it is quite large and chunky. I do like the colors used in this variation though and again, the quality is easy to appreciate.
While the watch is quite large, I have to say it is comfortable. Now, keep in mind, when I say quite large, that is my perspective. Im a 42-4mm guy these days, so 47mm with large crowns and a 54mm lug to lug is quite imposing. But for many this watch will be just right if not a little small. The case itself does have some curvature and with the way the natural rubber strap attaches it just makes the watch wrap around the wrist. The Brera Orologi Prodiver was made large, but it was made large with comfort in mind. Even the large crown on the left side of the case that operates the internal bezel does not dig into my wrist.
Pictured on my 7 1/2 inch wrist
Dial work as always is striking and not just your average matte or glossy dial. While some may find it busy or overdone, others will find it to be stylish and beautifully designed. The internal bezel is used to track time, which these days is nothing new, as we see many brands going this route. However, most do not use numbers this large and easily readable. The sword hands used are familiar as well, but again, not your average size as they are much wider than we are used to seeing. One other thing I appreciate is the date placement at the 6 o’clock position, as it is my favorite these days, especially when you have a busy dial. It also allows you to see the date easily and is not in a weird off set spot like the 4;30 position I see so many makers doing these days.
Another thing that the Brera Orologi Prodiver does not lack is lume application. This model glows as a dive watch should, and does not fade quickly either like many fashion forward watches. As you can see in the photo below, they did not forget about the bezel either.
While the size and overall style might not be in my wheelhouse these days, I can’t really knock the Brera Orologi Prodiver for much. As a reviewer, I have to compare watches and price to what is available on the market, and no, I do not count grey market dealers or pricing, as that is not a fair comparison. When looking at other Swiss Made brands in this category that sell for $995, you most likely will not see 3 different case finishes, a textured dial and custom made rubber strap. The design does not readily remind me of anything else either, meaning they did not go the easy route and make an homage. The quality and craftsmanship is certainly there, and while I wouldn’t run out to purchase one myself, and I can easily see why one would.
Thank you for reading, please leave your comments in the field below the picture gallery.
The post Brera Orologi ProDiver | Watch Review appeared first on WatchReport.com | Real. Honest. Reviews. | Authentic Watch Reviews |.
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