One of the most charming watches (and brands) that I’ve encountered is this Vario 1918 Trench. I looked at this watch in preparation for my small field watches roundup and its fully-committed WW1 theming has remained in my mind ever since.
From the gorgeous enamel dial and art deco branding to the modular strap and shrapnel protector, there’s no doubt that this small, Singapore-based brand is producing some of the most fun and unique watches in the world.
The strap was baller, the legibility was ridiculously good and the storage options (no joke) were industry-leading. Indeed, the pouch the watch came in, as well as the optional watch roll, should make other watch brands embarrassed! My only real niggle with the watch was the movement; the Miyota 8000 series has a pretty loud rotor.
If you want to support a family-run company, rather than a huge corporate entity, then check out the huge range of 1918 Trench watches on their site and take your pick of the many colors and variants available; you won’t be disappointed. By the way, they provided me with a discount code (this code is non-affiliate) ‘BWC’ for 8% off your entire order.
Vario 1918 Trench Specifications:
37mm (40mm version also available)
45.6mm lug to lug (48mm for bigger version)
10mm case thickness
Domed sapphire crystal
Miyota 82S5 automatic movement
10ATM water resistance rating
Leather strap
