Mechanical

Invicta Specialty Mechanical

Invicta Specialty Mechanical Hands-On Review

by

Invicta’s reputation is as polarizing as it gets in the watch world. I make a point of not being interested in popular opinion when assessing a brand as I’d rather see their watches hands-on and form my own opinion. It was in that spirit that I plopped down $80 to purchase this specialty and give it a fair shake

Given its low price, many will find the Specialty attractive, and there’s no denying that the Skeleton dial is atypical compared to the usual $80 watch. After several mixed experiences with similar watches from other brands, I was genuinely curious to see how the ultra-affordable Specialty would be.

Orient Monarch FDD03003Y0

Orient Monarch Mechanical Hands-On Review

by

As of the time of this review, the MSRP of the Monarch is $335 (though I bought this one off of Amazon for $160). The Monarch is a classy dress watch that is rather conservatively styled (once you look past the serif hour markers). This model comes with a leather strap, stainless steel buckle, and an exhibition caseback.

Like the Bambino, which I still maintain is the best automatic watch you can buy for under $250, the Monarch hits that sweet spot where what it brings to the table greatly exceeds what it costs to eat there. You won’t find another quality mechanical – let alone with a power reserve complication – at this price point until you start looking at no-name Chinese-manufactured movements.

Best Mechanical Watches for Men

Best Mechanical Watches For Men Priced Under $1,500

by

A common question we get on our Facebook and YouTube channels is “what are the best mechanical/automatic watches under $X”. The $X changes, but the sentiment in the question does not. It’s a good question, too, as there’s never been a broader selection of mechanically-powered watches than what’s available today.

In this list, I’ve called out my favorite automatic or mechanical watches priced under $1,500. A notable caveat: if the watch is an automatic, the movement must be able to be hand-wound like a non-automatic mechanical movement.

Stowa Partito Dial Macro

Stowa Partitio Review

by

A remake of the original Partitio from the 30’s, it has now found its way into their core line-up, but it often overlooked in favour of the well known Stowa Flieger Klassik. Which is unfortunate, because the Partitio represents an incredible value for money.

Tissot T-Complication Squelette

Tissot T-Complication Squelette Review

by

In my mind, the Tissot T-Complication Squelette sets the standard for how affordable skeleton watches should be done. Its dramatic design and consistent attention to detail create something that captures the interest of anyone – be they a “watch person” or not. More than good looks, it is an example of Swiss watch making at its best. Of all the watches I’ve reviewed to date, this one is my favorite.