Looking for 36mm Explorer Adjacent Microbrand
I’m looking to pick up an Explorer-like 36mm daily wear watch. I really like the 3-6-9 layout and I’ve narrowed it down to these three. Which would you choose?
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Gabriel
I love watches and especially the history of watches. I’m particularly interested in microbrands like Nodus, Raven and Halios, purpose-built watches like Doxa, Tudor Subs and FXD, and military era fie...
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I think the Vaer comes closest with its simple dial. The Traska is great but more flieger and sector dial inspired IMO. The Lorier could also be a fine choice, but the dial has a lot more going on than the Explorer.
I think the Vaer comes closest with its simple dial. The Traska is great but more flieger and sector dial inspired IMO. The Lorier could also be a fine choice, but the dial has a lot more going on than the Explorer.
I agree. The one thing that gives me a little pause with the Vaer is the fauxtina. Otherwise that would be a front runner. The other factor (irrelevant) to design is that I really like what Lorier are doing. Ive heard the husband and wife team on several podcasts and I want to support what they are doing. Not sure how I feel about the broad arrow hands though.
Would go for the Lorier especially for the broad arrow.
I'm going with the Lorier, even though hesalite is a -33 point deduction.
I know you said the 3-6-9 but for a slightly different look I would throw out the CW C63 36mm black dial. Comes in white too. Not quite on the nose as a 3-6-9 dial will be. EDIT TO ADD - the code 125LOUPE26 for $125 off is active. You could also order in pounds and use the code 100LOUPE26 for £100 pounds off. The dollar is really strong right now so you can grab a pretty good deal.
I voted by mistake as usual to those polls when you try to enlarge the photos. But, retrospectively I think my vote represented my choice.
That being said, what are prices on these handsome pieces?
I'm waiting to purchase a 38mm Midnight Blue Traska whenever COMING SOON actually comes!
have you considered smiths everest 36mm?
What about the Sinn 356? It's a tad bigger at 38.5mm (I believe!).
My heart says Lorier (and that's what I've voted for) but if it must be sapphire, I'd go with the Traska. The syringe hands of the Vaer don't really go well with Explorer-style watches, IMO.
I'm going with the Lorier, even though hesalite is a -33 point deduction.
I actually like the hesalite. I find it charming. And I’ve got a subscription for Polywatch on Amazon. Lol.
I voted by mistake as usual to those polls when you try to enlarge the photos. But, retrospectively I think my vote represented my choice.
That being said, what are prices on these handsome pieces?
They all range in the $500-$650 range
Lorier is $500
Traska is $550
Vaer depends on the bracelet but tops at $650
I know you said the 3-6-9 but for a slightly different look I would throw out the CW C63 36mm black dial. Comes in white too. Not quite on the nose as a 3-6-9 dial will be. EDIT TO ADD - the code 125LOUPE26 for $125 off is active. You could also order in pounds and use the code 100LOUPE26 for £100 pounds off. The dollar is really strong right now so you can grab a pretty good deal.
Thanks for that recommendation. I’ve had my eye on CW for a while and these are beautiful.
have you considered smiths everest 36mm?
Actually I did. I got one for my Dad (gilt dial) a few months ago. So that’s the only reason I counted that out. I could just wear his when I want
What about the Sinn 356? It's a tad bigger at 38.5mm (I believe!).
I looked at that as well. Just a tad above what I wanted to spend.
have you considered smiths everest 36mm?
This would be my pick as well!
I know you said the 3-6-9 but for a slightly different look I would throw out the CW C63 36mm black dial. Comes in white too. Not quite on the nose as a 3-6-9 dial will be. EDIT TO ADD - the code 125LOUPE26 for $125 off is active. You could also order in pounds and use the code 100LOUPE26 for £100 pounds off. The dollar is really strong right now so you can grab a pretty good deal.
THAT would definitely be my choice.
My 2 cents
I know you said you’ve narrowed it down, but for other readers: consider the Islander Manhasset 36mm ISL-145. $285, automatic NH-36 movement, sapphire crystal, sapphire see-through case back, screw down crown with 100m water resistance, drilled lug holes, female endlinks, solid bracelet with micro adjust.
Why, WHY am I reading this forum ?? One more to add to the infinite list of my watches (no)needs
All 3 have their own distinct design language. So, you'll have to be clear on your own design criteria, and on what speaks to you the most. Vaer (sapphire) & Lorier (hesalite) both have a domed crystal, while Traska (sapphire) is box-style double domed. For robustness, Vaer has its "Parashock anti-shock system", while Traska is guaranteed scratch proof with its proprietary scratch-resistant coating.
Like you, I lean towards the field/ explorer design aesthetic, and plan on getting the Smiths Everest gilt version. I've also considered the exact 3 above in my shortlist, and I have decided to go with the Traska Summiteer, as it ticks all the boxes in my personal criteria. Most of all, it speaks to me the most, especially now with its 36mm version.
Thanks for the through comment. I’m being pulled between the Lorier and Traska at this point. Regarding the Everest gilt dial. I purchased on for my Dad as a gift and he wears it a lot. It’s a great looking watch.
Sounds like I'm not the only one who accidentally voted by clicking the pic, but I do think the Lorier is my favorite after all.
Thanks for the through comment. I’m being pulled between the Lorier and Traska at this point. Regarding the Everest gilt dial. I purchased on for my Dad as a gift and he wears it a lot. It’s a great looking watch.
My pleasure, bud. It's also been a long process of consideration for me. So, on one hand, I'm glad we're in the same boat of decision-making (and I hear all the good comments from many so far). On the other hand, I'm glad to share my own thought processes too, and hope it helps in a small way. 🍻
I have experience with Lorier watches, so I am biased toward them, even though I never tried on the Falcon II. I think the Traska would be a cool option, especially considering the coating applied to their watches. I don't really love the dial and handset.
I personally would go for the Falcon. But think they're all good options. Like the Islander too for a modern Explorer Homage. You can't really go too far wrong.
Another vote here to consider the Smiths Everest. Punches way above its price point.
Another vote here to consider the Smiths Everest. Punches way above its price point.
Agree 100%. Only reason I’m not considering it is that I just bought one for my Dad a few months ago as a gift. So I wouldn’t get the same thing for myself. He wears it all the time and I agree it’s great.
I've seen a prototype of the new falcon III and I ordered 2 😉
I've seen a prototype of the new falcon III and I ordered 2 😉
Wow. Well I’m heavily leaning that way!!! they go live on Friday so I think that may be what I do.
I own the Vaer A3 and wear it daily. All of your options here are great choices, but the Vaer is my personal favorite. I have the bracelet, which I really like, but currently it is on a leather strap. It works great with many colors and strap styles. (As would any of these watches).
I own the Vaer A3 and wear it daily. All of your options here are great choices, but the Vaer is my personal favorite. I have the bracelet, which I really like, but currently it is on a leather strap. It works great with many colors and strap styles. (As would any of these watches).
Just saw your photo on your profile. The Vaer looks great!
https://longislandwatch.com/islander-manhasset-36mm-automatic-watch-with-black-dial-isl-145/