My most expensive purchase so far [Update, see post]

Update: 10 November 2022

Received a follow up from one of the founders. They have already refunded me and will be providing the return shipping label (and customs documents) soon. 

Really appreciate that they refunded me before even starting the physical return. 

Still a shame that it's ended the way it has, but glad that Vaer did the right thing. Also at no point did any blame ever be apportioned my way.

If you are US based do give them a go if you like the designs. If you are not based in the US, then (and this applies to other microbrands really) do consider that if something goes wrong, it will take longer to sort out and of course if you refund you will lose the import tax. I did know all of this and took a risk, but this risk didn't pay off this time.

Update: 08 November 2022

Technically I've had this watch for around 4 months. But in reality I've only been able to wear it for less than 1 month.

There was something behind the caseback, not a big issue, but also not what one would expect from a watch of this price.

Vaer provided a replacement no issue. The problem was, the first replacement had a noticeable scratch on the bezel. Now onto replacement number 2 (the third A3 in my hands).

This one seemed fine. But now the issue that presented itself (because up until this point I had not been in position of the watch) was that the bracelet was faulty. The screw attaching to the clasp would not stay.

A replacement bracelet was sent, expect after I had it resized (which I had to get someone to do as the screws were too tight and I risked threading it) I realised that they had sent one for a different model.

This was the final straw. I requested a refund, but didn't hear anything for a week. What annoyed me further was that on Instagram they were advertising new upcoming releases. So I DMd via Instagram.

Turns out there customer support person (a single person?) had quit! So now I'm dealing with one of the founders. 

Original post below:

Recently my contract at work finally became permanent so I've got a bit more job security (also a slight promotion).

To commemorate this I wanted to get a watch that was that little bit nice than what I currently have with a better movement. As well as something that looks a bit smarter whilst still having the versatility to be dressed down.

As I have tiny wrists I've learnt via other purchases (one of which I've already sold) that if I want a watch that I can comfortably wear all day it needs to be below 38mm diameter and 46mm lug to lug. The Atlas is 36mm diameter and 43mm lug to lug. 

I've had my eye on the Vaer quartz watches as they have a good selection in 36mm. When they announced the Atlas it not only had a blue dial but also a date window as well so it seemed to tick all the boxes for me.

Finally decided on the jubilee bracelet (with some help of the fine people here at Watch Crunch). 

Was a bit hesitant ordering as I'm UK based, but the delivery ended up being quicker than domestic UK orders I've had in the past! Also the tax was more straight forward than I expected.

The watch itself is incredibly comfortable on my 16cm/6 and a quarter inch wrist. It's a good weight with the bracelet, not too heavy but still feels solid. Had to take out every single removable link, but I still have one micro adjust position available if needed come winter. Also the primary blue silicone strap is excellent. 

Might do a review in a month's time.