Value Proposition – Vario Retro Eclipse Watch

Kickstarter has brought us many watches in every possible design, but having an authentic retro style watch available for watch collectors, is something we look at with interest, here at Monochrome. Vario has developed the VH31 Eclipse, and 6T33 Eclipse watches, and the attention to retro detailing is rather pleasing. From the fibers of the strap to the simplicity of the dial, Vario is bringing the 1970’s back with a vengeance. The first NATO Eclipse Watch has been reinvented for watch lovers everywhere, and although the NATO strap is still available for an additional fee, the new design packs a punch if you are a fan of retro style and design.

The Vario Retro Eclipse Watch is made from 316L grade stainless steel. The case has a modest diameter size of 38mm, which is perfect for individuals that enjoy this slightly forgotten feeling of restrained elegance. With a thickness of 7mm, the watch sits nicely on the wrist and does not have any of the large features that some stylish watches of today have. What makes this case stand out in a league of its own, is the case back. Taking inspiration from Chinese mythology, the Eclipse watch is an ode to the Heavenly Hound that Devours the moon. With a beautifully etched howling dog and the Chinese script for the Heavenly Hound, this watch case back is quite special. The etching of the legendary dog is unique and allows the Eclipse watch to stand proudly in its own niche.

The Vario Retro Eclipse Watch comes with sweeping movement provided by the Seiko vh31 mechanics, and the hands have a ¼ beat and sweep across the dial. This watch also has a Miyota 6t33 hand-wound movement apparatus that is easy to use. One of the nice features for a watch, at this price point, is the sapphire crystal that is usually only seen in more expensive timepieces. It also has an anti-reflective coating on the inner glass for ease of reading the time. From the case bottom to the height of the apex of the crystal, it measures 10mm. At a starting super early bird price of only $118 for the VH31 model or $198 for the 6T33 model, having sweeping quartz or hand-wound movement and a sapphire crystal makes this watch good value for money.

Tweed has started making a comeback on the runway for men’s fashion and Vario has added a unique element that is both on trend and retro. The Harris tweed wrist strap is textured and vibrant, and the color matches the four watch colors perfectly. Harris Tweed is a handwoven textile that is made in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland. It is made of pure virgin wool then dyed; producing vibrant colors. Harris Tweed is used in numerous high-end men’s brands and is the perfect fit for the Vario Eclipse Retro Watch. Whether you enjoy blue, black, gray or silver, the Harris Tweed corresponds perfectly with the watch faces of the Eclipse watches.

With the classic and retro design elements, the Vario Eclipse watch is perfect for everyday wear. Whether you are looking for a timepiece that you can wear to the office or a watch that can dress down your clothes for the evening, this watch fits all situations. The only thing the Retro Eclipse watch cannot do is be worn during water sports or showers. With a water resistant rating of 30m/99ft/3ATM, the Vario Eclipse watch should be taken off for any prolonged water activities.

Vario brings two different styles in four different colors to the Kickstarter marketplace. You have the choice of Blue, Black, Silver or Grey and each comes with a matching Tweed wristband. There are three levels of pricing dependant on when you decide to purchase your new Vario Retro Eclipse watch. Prices start at a Super Early Bird value of $118 for the VH31 or $198 for the 6T33. Early Bird Prices are $128 for the VH31 or $218 for the 6T33. The Kickstarter special is priced at $148 for the VH31 and $238 for the 6T33 model. Whether you decide to take advantage of the Super Early Bird price or one of the other options, the Vario Eclipse watch is rather impressively priced and is worth adding to you growing timepiece collection. More details on this page.

This article is written by Matthew Catellier, who covers “Value Propositions” for Monochrome, and also publishes affordable timepieces on his own website Watch Review Blog.