When it comes to affordable Swiss-made watch brands, you probably have a level of perception of reliability, precision and good construction in mind which are all good qualities. Asides from these, there are other perceptions about Swiss-made watches which tend to generate some mixed feelings such as an impression of elitism, really high mark-ups, and objective watch designs. The extent to which these qualities are generally accepted is based on individual preferences.
However, the Raymond & Pearl watch brand was established to counter this classic Swiss approach to watch designs. The founders, Raymond and Pearl, believed in ideals of not having to accept things just because everyone is doing the same thing but to strive for better solutions to common problems.
In essence, the watch in review today was also made in line with the revolution against the Swiss Made approach. The question pops up. Is this another label reseller or something entirely different? Let’s take an in-depth look into the Raymond & Pearl Horizon Quartz Watch.
Case and Wearability
The stainless-steel case measures a satisfactory 40mm in diameter and a thickness of 7.9mm. It is water resistant up to 50m. Other features that signify quality are present- A sapphire crystal over the dial, quality surface finishes on the case and caseback.
Its round shape, slightly angled lugs, and small thickness make it suitable for everyday use, a watch that can easily be hidden under the cuffs or worn on a suit.
The crown looks uninteresting without any signing on it; an engraved or embossed logo will be a great addition. Also, the dial appears to conflict with the case finish; they are both shining. The material finishes are excellent on their own but looking at the larger picture; a non-reflective case will complement the dial better.
Details such as the logo and features of the watch are laser-etched into the caseback, a feature well expected in a Swiss watch.
Dial and Hands
The dial of the watch remains a major attraction featuring a well- brushed sunburst effect that visually highlights the watch under the light. It also shows hour markers with a similar finish to the case. The dauphine hands are presented in a vibrant shade of silver adding a little visual depth to the dial.
There are no complications and no visible application luminous paint on the hands which is quite fine for a dress watch. Although some people do prefer a date complication on the watch they wear every day, it also has an advantage. It allows your attention to be drawn immediately to the large hour markers.
The dial is available in various colors to match almost any type of dress you wear it on.
Swiss Movement
As you would almost expect from a Swiss watch in this price range, the Raymond & Pearl Horizon Watch is powered by a Swiss Ronda Quartz Movement. The exact model is specified on the brand’s website. However, Swiss Ronda Quartz movements are known to be very accurate and reliable when compared with other Quartz movements. It also makes the watch a good low-maintenance watch especially if you have to keep it for months before you wear it again.
Straps
There are four different strap options from black leather, silver mesh, blue suede, and leather oak.
They obviously understand the benefits of strap selection for a dress piece.
Just get the strap that sits comfortably on your wrist and matches your clothes.
Final Thoughts
The Raymond & Pearl Horizon Watch bestows visual flamboyance on the wearer’s wrist. Sure, it takes aesthetical ideals and design cues from other swiss watches, but it definitely possesses its own style and spice.
Readability is a little bit sacrificed due to conflicting material finishes. However, all the dial components seem to have the right shape and proportion; you’ll probably not have any problem reading the time.
The Swiss Made Revolution is expressed in terms of pricing and customers relation rather than the technical details of the watch. For example, the label ‘Swiss made’ can increase the price of a watch exponentially, this is quite expected because of the premium materials used in making the watch. When a watch brand offers similar quality at a much lower price, then it’s a revolution.
Hello, thank you for your article. It is a shame that you do not or might not have access to very affordable small Swiss family owned watch brands, price range CHF 50.- to CHF 175.- and over, because these watches are actually of very good quality for their price. Besides Swatch, these brands include Continental, Cover, M Watch by Mondaine, Richelieu, Svizza, Vrenelli, etc… These brands are available on the domestic market in Switzerland, however I am not quite sure they can be pruchased internationally.
So high end luxury watch brands inadvertely give a false impression of Switzerland, a sort of a postcard photograph pleasent to see and a little dream to be part of that elitist watch club.