retro done right: my new group c watch review

hi all. just wanted to tell you about my latest addition, the autodromo group c premium digital watch. it’s a cool piece that attempts to combine retro car design with modern timekeeping tech.

right out of the box, the group c caught my eye with its digital display nestled under the large flat sapphire crystal.

the design is meant to evoke memories of the advanced instrument panels seen in endurance racing cars. it even includes an '80s-inspired graphic, which is an interesting detail. interestingly, the etching on the crystal was executed by a swiss supplier who collaborates with renowned watchmakers like patek and breitling. the pops of colour from the tactile push-buttons are a striking touch.

the case has smooth curves and sleek angles. it's compact but feels weighty on the wrist, a nice reminder of the quality you're wearing.

although the module is purposefully basic it has some useful features that you can use daily: a stopwatch, an alarm and even a calendar.

I picked up this dlc black plated stainless steel variant brushed with red and yellow accents for £380 from ebay in new condition, but they've got three other colour options too.

wearing the group c is great. the 36mm case fits perfectly on my wrist, not too big or too small. the 20mm rubber strap is extremely comfortable and secures the watch nicely.

honestly, although it might seem expensive at £455 retail, the group c is a fantastic buy. it's a stylish conversation starter that blends retro charm with high-functioning modernity.

if you’re into timepieces that tell a story, you might want to consider adding the group c to your collection. it's a piece of racing history that you can wear.

t4thomas

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retro done right: my new group c watch review

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  • large flat sapphire crystal.
  • compact yet weighty, a reminder of the quality.
  • comfortable 20mm rubber strap that secures the watch nicely.
  • timeless design that combines retro cars with modern timekeeping tech.
  • the module is purposefully basic, some might prefer more advanced features.
  • a bit expensive at £455 retail.
Reply
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Wow pretty neat, a sapphire lens on a digital watch I thought about time!...but then I saw the price!, OMG, surely this is just a Casio with a suit of armour?, nice looking though.

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Rodiow

Wow pretty neat, a sapphire lens on a digital watch I thought about time!...but then I saw the price!, OMG, surely this is just a Casio with a suit of armour?, nice looking though.

this is just a Casio with a suit of armour

That's called as G-shock lol

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I do really like the aesthetics, but £455 for the same Casio module built in a F91W is a very large pill to swallow. I’m sure the finishing and the strap and the crystal are of the highest Swiss quality, but… Imagine dropping that money and your colleagues or friends asking “is that a new Casio?”.

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TekindusT

I do really like the aesthetics, but £455 for the same Casio module built in a F91W is a very large pill to swallow. I’m sure the finishing and the strap and the crystal are of the highest Swiss quality, but… Imagine dropping that money and your colleagues or friends asking “is that a new Casio?”.

for sure. some of the reasons for the costs etc. are discussed here:

http://www.scottishwatches.co.uk/?powerpress_pinw=33359-podcast

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I remember seeing this watch at the windup watch fair last year. I remember thinking it was cool looking it was with the whole retro vibe. It wasn’t for sale the guy working the table was wearing a yellow one. I kept checking the site afterwards, when it came out and I seen the price it definitely was a deal breaker. Nice watch too expensive for me.

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t4thomas

for sure. some of the reasons for the costs etc. are discussed here:

http://www.scottishwatches.co.uk/?powerpress_pinw=33359-podcast

Very insightful interview. I recommend everyone interested in this watch listen to the interview before making a decision. Thanks for sharing it with us!

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TekindusT

I do really like the aesthetics, but £455 for the same Casio module built in a F91W is a very large pill to swallow. I’m sure the finishing and the strap and the crystal are of the highest Swiss quality, but… Imagine dropping that money and your colleagues or friends asking “is that a new Casio?”.

I couldn't care less what people think about it, IF it's a watch I enjoy and one that I think is fun to wear. So I'd say if you like it, go for it.

But to be honest the similarities between this watch and a Casio are pretty low, apart from the module maybe. I mean it's a completely different design and it doesn't look close to anything Casio produces right now.