NA: Pagani Design 1701

Icarium

2 months ago

A proper steel watch, eerily resembling an Omega Speed Master for 99 bucks - what’s not to like? Yes, yes, I know what some people very much do not like about this proposition - but hey, it’s my 99 bucks and my wrist and I happen to think that Pagani has delivered the goods again.

It is a solid feeling watch, which is actually very nicely finished. The strap is nothing particularly special, but functional and nicely finished as well.

The dial has the familiar layout and is also executed to quite a good standard. The Omega’s subdials’ sloping sides are a bit more refined and add more depth, but other than that, can’t really see any major differences. Pagani has added a (rather superfluous) date window though. The fixed bezel shows the tachymetre values, which is really fine print, but not a smidge of smudge anywhere. The sapphire crystal dome could use a tad more AR, but this doesn’t get in the way of legibility.

On the back is a rather silly illustration of the spaceshuttle, still attached to its booster rocket, flying past the moon towards Saturn. They shouldn't have bothered.

Inside, Pagani informs me, is a Seiko VK63, which should run at less than +/- 20 seconds per month on a battery life of about 3 years. The thing has 100 metres WR and even some lume:

Recap: if you like the Speed Master look, do not want a plastic imitation and you’re not willing or able to spend Speed Master money: this I think is a very good buy. No heritage, no bragging rights, simplest of movements inside (hidden by a silly picture) - but a sturdy, very nice looking and comfortable watch to add to the collection for occasional wear. And to scratch the ever present itch while deliberating the next big expense :-)