Straightforward Reviews

Straightforward Reviews by thewatchzealot 

---Introduction---

Full disclosure: I did not purchase this watch. I contacted Marc to review this watch. After my review, I will send it back to him.

Brand: Islander Watch

Model: ISL-131

Website: https://longislandwatch.com/islander-hi-beat-automatic-dress-watch-with-linen-dial-isl-131/

Cost: $349.00

---Specifications---

Water resistance: 100m

Movement: Miyota 9015 Hi-Beat Automatic (self-winding, hand wind, hacks)

Case dimensions: Stainless steel, 38mm x 11mm thick. 44.5mm tip to tip

Case details: Signed crown, exhibition caseback

Crystal: Flat sapphire with AR

Dial: Linen dial with printed logo, date window at 6 o’clock, lumed indices and hands

Band: 20mm bracelet, solid male end links, screw pins, 3 position micro-adjust clasp

---Review---

The Islander ISL-131 has been on my wrist for 5 straight days, and I will provide you with a straightforward review.

What I liked…

First, I respect Marc and his company. He appears to be straightforward and honest about his intentions. I feel like I know Marc from his regular videos on youtube and his down-to-earth personality. This type of transparency provides comfort when purchasing a watch. For a comparison, the AliExpress watch buying experience gives me great anxiety because I am transacting with a faceless somebody halfway around the globe.

Second, the linen dial on the ISL-131 is gorgeous. The design provides depth and character to the watch. I am sure this design is not unique, but I haven’t seen it at this price point. The dial was my favorite part of the watch.

Lastly, I enjoyed the case size and versatility. Measuring at 38mm and a thickness of only 11mm, the case design hugs my wrist and compliments my work attire. The watch can be worn as an everyday timepiece but can also be dressed up for more formal events. I place the Islander ISL-131 on the original jubilee bracelet, Bark & Jack nato strap, and a Waccex calfskin leather; and the watch pulled them all off.  

What I didn’t like…

First, I am going to state the obvious: I do not like the logo. I know this is subjective, but it is an opinion that many people on this forum share. It is generic. It’s like creating a team on Madden or NBA2K, and the game provides you generic jersey designs and logos. The Islander Watch logo is equivalent to that type of genericity.

Second, the quality of the bracelet/clasp is unimpressive. At $349, I expect more from the bracelet and clasp. This may be unfair, but I am comparing their quality to a brand like San Martin. San Martin produces unoriginal designs, but they have bracelets and clasps that are solid. On the other hand, the ISL-131 bracelet and clasp feel low-cost and underwhelming.  

Conclusion

I enjoyed wearing this watch. I enjoyed it more when I removed it from the bracelet and put it on a leather strap. It complimented my lifestyle and fashion (I work in the office and wear professional attire). The unique dial design mixed with the size of the case makes this watch a daily wear for me. However, the logo is unforgiveable for many. Personally, I don’t consider the soul-less logo a deal-breaker, but I admit that it is ruins the beautiful dial. Overall, the watch is a great value (excluding the bracelet and clasp) made by a company that I respect and trust.

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