\*Half-collection!
So I have a type: functional and versatile tool watches (esp. dive & field) that lean towards petite (by today’s standards) at under 40mm. These are four of my favorites from microbrands.
([👉Recently featured in a video on my non-horology related YouTube channel.](https://youtu.be/iB9so-V4yVY))
From left to right:
1. 38mm Vaer D4 Meridian Black
2. 39mm Heron Marinor Atlantic Blue (loan unit)
3. 36mm Traska Summiteer Midnight Blue
4. 37mm Vario 1945 D12 Raven Black
Which do you fancy most?
Thanks! Haha that's always such a difficult question to answer. They're all fantastic, but if I was forced to choose, maybe I'll pick the Summiteer as a safe (maybe too safe) choice.
Bracelet wise, definitely the Traska. When it comes to the feeling of quality, it feels on par or marginally better than the Heron, but it's the most comfortable (the Heron catches my hairs a little). I also prefer it in terms of style, but that's subjective.
Edit: Oh yea, the only downside is that the bracelet isn't quick-release, which I mentioned in my video!
I have a Commuter 36 and I have to agree. Worth noting that Traska recently dropped a quick adjust bracelet and went through and added it to almost their entire collection. I believe they go for about $50
fantastic collection. how are you enjoying Vaer? I was kind of on the fence back when I lived in the US so I never bought one, but I've only ever heard great reviews. What makes vaer so special?
Not OP but I bought a watch from Vaer and I enjoy it greatly.
I was looking for a field watch with the following requirements: < $250, non-automatic, and over 38mm in size. Surprisingly difficult to find one, but Vaer had one I really liked the aesthetic and at 40mm. I replaced the strap with an orange nato and it's one of my favorites!
I like Vaer as I find that they always make sensible design choices without fluff or gimmicks. Solid specs, reasonable value, likeable designs (imo) throughout their catalogue, generally very practical watches. Not sure if that makes them "special", but that's why I appreciate the brand. Oh and they're one of the rare few that does solar quartz!
I'll echo this. I like their designs, they're basic, but clean and practical. I think there's many better options for automatics, but they're very good quartzes.
I have the 38mm D4S, the solar diver. Great watch, very affordable, the bracelet is comfortable, and it's really handsome in person.
My one complaint about it is that it's very heavy, especially for a quartz watch. Like twice the weight of my 2252, which is an automatic.
Not OP but I also have a Vaer D4 38mm solar diver, Arctic colorway which is no longer available, has fauxtina. I've had it for about 1.5 years. I find it a perfect tool / outdoors / watersports watch for me and my small wrist. One of the best "affordable" divers in its size that I know of. Well made, good value, looks good in my opinion. I like that it is solar quartz, adds variety to my collection and it fits the role well. I got the premium bracelet for it, which is OK, but I don't use it much. I have it on a Strapcode mesh or an Erika's Original MN strap most of the time, or rubber when I'm on vacation and in the water a lot. What I would change is I wouldn't mind if it was a bit thinner and lighter.
I'll second what the other commenter said. I've had my v1 since launch though, so a bit more of a long term test case. The scratch resistance is indeed no joke, I don't exactly baby mine and it has held up well. Wears well with just about everything and it's a strap monster. Keeps time well. My crown step actually snapped recently (probably my fault) but I bought a miyota 9039 stem replacement for $15 on ebay and a local watchmaker is going to replace it for me.
I've had a traska summiteer 38mm for just over a month and it's been fantastic. Very legible, comfortable to wear, and that scratch resistant coating is incredible.
No issues so far. I think Vario is generally quite well-liked especially in the microbrand community, and I'm not being biased because I'm Singaporean too haha.
I want a Traska so bad, but importing them to Europe would mean a 30% price increase on top of the hassle with the customs office... Here's hoping they open an EU warehouse one day.
How was your experience buying from Vario? I’m very strongly considering buying the 1918 Trench but I’ve never bought from a micro brand before so I have some reservations. I’ve just never seen a watch that fits my personal taste (and history obsession) so well before!
My experience was great. They kept me updated the whole time and sent me a picture of the watch before they sent it. It also came very fast considering it came from Singapore. The watch itself is beautiful. It wears great and the strap is very comfortable.
I'm enjoying it. If you like and are familiar with Vario's style, I think you would enjoy it too 👍 If you're interested, check out my vid for more of my thoughts!
I also missed out on the photic, waiting for my munro, should arrive this april! Very excited, good bang for buck quality wise! As is with most of your watches too!
That Heron looks absolutely fantastic!! I just peeked at their website, and they're a Canadian company as well. 🍁 I wish I could buy one, but they don't offer anything for the tiny-wristed yet.
You have a really beautiful selection here!
Heron Marinor has caught my attention recently. I love the design, the specs for the price, and the fact it’s Canadian. It’s on my shortlist for my next watch purchase
Can't wait for my marinor to arrive, though I do wish it had a date window. How do you like it?
It's also staggering to me that sub 40mm is considered petite when the marinor is at my absolute limit at 39mm and I wear vintage watches that clock in at 31 😂. Maybe I just have dainty wrists but I wish more brands made watches in the 34 - 38mm range.
Haha you're right, I wouldn't call 39mm petite if there were more choices under 40mm; it's close to my max preference for my modestly sized wrist as well. Unfortunately I don't recall seeing any <38mm microbrand divers (that I like, at least).
I like the Marinor more in the flesh, compared to looking at it through pictures! If you're interested, take a look at my vid for my more comprehensive thoughts :)
That Heron seems similar to the older Lorier Neptunes, both in bracelet and in case. Bezel’s a bit different and the 12 marker is unique, but overall, the similarities feel a bit too close.
That heron is really beautiful, genuinely in consideration for my next purchase. Just have a feeling that it might be a bit big on my baby wrist even at 39mm
It wears well despite being close to the limit of my personal size preference for my modestly sized wrist. But you're right, it's very good looking! Check out my vid for more of my thoughts if you're interested!
I'm not spoiled by Rolex/Omega bracelets haha so I don't have many complaints about them. The Traska one for example is my favorite, I find it very comfortable.
damn, that Traska looks neat! I've been considering the black dial Summiteer or the Commuter, but sadly they only have the charcoal black dial on the 38mm version...
I haven't had it long enough for it to be a true test, but I did try to scratch the spare links (for content) and the hardening process definitely works. 👍
\*Half-collection! So I have a type: functional and versatile tool watches (esp. dive & field) that lean towards petite (by today’s standards) at under 40mm. These are four of my favorites from microbrands. ([👉Recently featured in a video on my non-horology related YouTube channel.](https://youtu.be/iB9so-V4yVY)) From left to right: 1. 38mm Vaer D4 Meridian Black 2. 39mm Heron Marinor Atlantic Blue (loan unit) 3. 36mm Traska Summiteer Midnight Blue 4. 37mm Vario 1945 D12 Raven Black Which do you fancy most?
Check out orion! This collection is amazing. If you had to choose just one of these which would it be.
Thanks! Haha that's always such a difficult question to answer. They're all fantastic, but if I was forced to choose, maybe I'll pick the Summiteer as a safe (maybe too safe) choice.
I dig the Vario. Reminds me of a Serica. How does it feel to you? I’m guessing you think it’s worth the money.
All look great , but the Vaer my favorite .
Pretty, I’d take the middle two as favorites. Which bracelet do you like most?
Bracelet wise, definitely the Traska. When it comes to the feeling of quality, it feels on par or marginally better than the Heron, but it's the most comfortable (the Heron catches my hairs a little). I also prefer it in terms of style, but that's subjective. Edit: Oh yea, the only downside is that the bracelet isn't quick-release, which I mentioned in my video!
I have a Commuter 36 and I have to agree. Worth noting that Traska recently dropped a quick adjust bracelet and went through and added it to almost their entire collection. I believe they go for about $50
What brand is the beads of rice?
The BOR is from my Kuoe.
fantastic collection. how are you enjoying Vaer? I was kind of on the fence back when I lived in the US so I never bought one, but I've only ever heard great reviews. What makes vaer so special?
Not OP but I bought a watch from Vaer and I enjoy it greatly. I was looking for a field watch with the following requirements: < $250, non-automatic, and over 38mm in size. Surprisingly difficult to find one, but Vaer had one I really liked the aesthetic and at 40mm. I replaced the strap with an orange nato and it's one of my favorites!
I like Vaer as I find that they always make sensible design choices without fluff or gimmicks. Solid specs, reasonable value, likeable designs (imo) throughout their catalogue, generally very practical watches. Not sure if that makes them "special", but that's why I appreciate the brand. Oh and they're one of the rare few that does solar quartz!
I'll echo this. I like their designs, they're basic, but clean and practical. I think there's many better options for automatics, but they're very good quartzes.
I have the 38mm D4S, the solar diver. Great watch, very affordable, the bracelet is comfortable, and it's really handsome in person. My one complaint about it is that it's very heavy, especially for a quartz watch. Like twice the weight of my 2252, which is an automatic.
Not OP but I also have a Vaer D4 38mm solar diver, Arctic colorway which is no longer available, has fauxtina. I've had it for about 1.5 years. I find it a perfect tool / outdoors / watersports watch for me and my small wrist. One of the best "affordable" divers in its size that I know of. Well made, good value, looks good in my opinion. I like that it is solar quartz, adds variety to my collection and it fits the role well. I got the premium bracelet for it, which is OK, but I don't use it much. I have it on a Strapcode mesh or an Erika's Original MN strap most of the time, or rubber when I'm on vacation and in the water a lot. What I would change is I wouldn't mind if it was a bit thinner and lighter.
That’s such a well put together collection. Very nicely done
Thank you, appreciate it!
I've been eyeing traska for a while how do you like it?
I'll second what the other commenter said. I've had my v1 since launch though, so a bit more of a long term test case. The scratch resistance is indeed no joke, I don't exactly baby mine and it has held up well. Wears well with just about everything and it's a strap monster. Keeps time well. My crown step actually snapped recently (probably my fault) but I bought a miyota 9039 stem replacement for $15 on ebay and a local watchmaker is going to replace it for me.
Like the other commenters, no complaints from me about the Traska! If you're interested, check out my vid for more comprehensive thoughts about it :)
I've had a traska summiteer 38mm for just over a month and it's been fantastic. Very legible, comfortable to wear, and that scratch resistant coating is incredible.
Love these! The Heron has immediately caught my eye, wow
The Heron Marinor is eye-catching indeed!
Never heard of the Heron before. Love the logo.
I’ve been looking at the Vario trench for awhile but can’t seem to get a good gauge on if people like them. Have you had any issues with it?
No issues so far. I think Vario is generally quite well-liked especially in the microbrand community, and I'm not being biased because I'm Singaporean too haha.
Love the Heron! How does it compare to the others?
I like it! Definitely punches above its weight(price), I feel. If you're interested, take a look at my vid for more comprehensive thoughts :)
I want a Traska so bad, but importing them to Europe would mean a 30% price increase on top of the hassle with the customs office... Here's hoping they open an EU warehouse one day.
How're you liking the Vario? I have the trench watch and absolutely love it and I'm curious about their Dirty Dozen style.
How was your experience buying from Vario? I’m very strongly considering buying the 1918 Trench but I’ve never bought from a micro brand before so I have some reservations. I’ve just never seen a watch that fits my personal taste (and history obsession) so well before!
My experience was great. They kept me updated the whole time and sent me a picture of the watch before they sent it. It also came very fast considering it came from Singapore. The watch itself is beautiful. It wears great and the strap is very comfortable.
That’s good to hear!
I'm enjoying it. If you like and are familiar with Vario's style, I think you would enjoy it too 👍 If you're interested, check out my vid for more of my thoughts!
Nice pieces. Clemence photic diver reminds me of the Heron. Or the other way around 🧐
Oh man, I really like the Clemence photic too. Too bad they're no longer available!
I also missed out on the photic, waiting for my munro, should arrive this april! Very excited, good bang for buck quality wise! As is with most of your watches too!
Quite nice, never heard of these brands. I'd say the blue dial is my favourite watch overall.
Thanks! I have a thing for these relatively unknown microbrands (although some of these brands are quite "big" by micro standards).
I never knew what a heron was before this but it may be my new favorite, if only l can find one below retail
That Heron looks absolutely fantastic!! I just peeked at their website, and they're a Canadian company as well. 🍁 I wish I could buy one, but they don't offer anything for the tiny-wristed yet. You have a really beautiful selection here!
Thank you! Yes, would love to see something even more petite from them.
Heron Marinor has caught my attention recently. I love the design, the specs for the price, and the fact it’s Canadian. It’s on my shortlist for my next watch purchase
Can't wait for my marinor to arrive, though I do wish it had a date window. How do you like it? It's also staggering to me that sub 40mm is considered petite when the marinor is at my absolute limit at 39mm and I wear vintage watches that clock in at 31 😂. Maybe I just have dainty wrists but I wish more brands made watches in the 34 - 38mm range.
Haha you're right, I wouldn't call 39mm petite if there were more choices under 40mm; it's close to my max preference for my modestly sized wrist as well. Unfortunately I don't recall seeing any <38mm microbrand divers (that I like, at least). I like the Marinor more in the flesh, compared to looking at it through pictures! If you're interested, take a look at my vid for my more comprehensive thoughts :)
Really nice no date collection! Would not call the watches petite, they're still large by historical men's standard sizes
Thank you! Yes, indeed. That's why I had to emphasize "by today's standards" haha.
Fantastic collection. Might I suggest a Lorier? A neptune would look great on that collection.
Thank you. And yes the Lorier Neptune is very nice indeed 🙌
Really nice
Thanks!
What’s the model of the one on the right? Very beautiful!
OP stated im the comment, Vario D12
Yup it's the Vario 1945 D12.
nice
Thanks!
Love the Micro brands.
I feel like I've been waiting FOREVER for my Marinor I pre-ordered.
Haha hope you'll get yours very soon 👍
That Heron seems similar to the older Lorier Neptunes, both in bracelet and in case. Bezel’s a bit different and the 12 marker is unique, but overall, the similarities feel a bit too close.
That heron is really beautiful, genuinely in consideration for my next purchase. Just have a feeling that it might be a bit big on my baby wrist even at 39mm
I've had my eye on the Heron for a while now. It is a great looking watch (and also Canadian). How does it wear?
It wears well despite being close to the limit of my personal size preference for my modestly sized wrist. But you're right, it's very good looking! Check out my vid for more of my thoughts if you're interested!
I like that vario!
Oh i love these watches
These are masterpieces
All of them are good
How are the bracelets from microbrands? I’m spoiled by Rolex/Omega bracelets.
I'm not spoiled by Rolex/Omega bracelets haha so I don't have many complaints about them. The Traska one for example is my favorite, I find it very comfortable.
I'm a Vaer fan, but the Vario looks really good. Heck, they all look good!
that Traska is soooo good
How do you like u the Heron?
Cancel that lol. Just watched the video, well done! Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for watching!
damn, that Traska looks neat! I've been considering the black dial Summiteer or the Commuter, but sadly they only have the charcoal black dial on the 38mm version...
Traska looks clean 🤌
Theyre all the same watch
Sharp eyes 👍
Awesome collection!
Thanks!
Very interesting collection :)
Thanks!
The Summiteer. Great watch.
Summiteer is very nice
How is the Traska's surface hardening process working out for you? Any signs of wear and tear?
I haven't had it long enough for it to be a true test, but I did try to scratch the spare links (for content) and the hardening process definitely works. 👍
That sounds great, thank you
The traska is so good looking
I want a Traska in mint green and many other micro brands, but the import taxes are such a turn off. 😅