Introducing the Manchester Watch Works Iconik 3

Today, we are in a bit of an odd situation. Here at WWR, we like to tell you about watches that are currently available, or will be available soon. Well, with the recent launch of the Manchester Watch Works Iconik 3, we’re breaking that mold a bit. You see, with the Iconik series, MWW only creates a limited number (in this case, 100) and, as we had our sample in for review, those numbers completely sold out. You might still come across these in the secondary market, of course, so let’s carry on with the review.

The original (photo courtesy of WatchProSite)

When you first look at the Manchester Watch Works Iconik 3, you might be tempted to think of it as another sort of vintage-sub-inspired piece. While I cannot deny that I had those thoughts as well, it turns out that the watch is based on the Blancpain TR-900 that was made for the U.S. Navy. So, while there are some similarities (visually), the Iconik 3 is a beast of a different sort.

For me, what really clicked was the combination of the off-white dial, vintage color lume, and the olive green strap. These elements came together quite well on the Manchester Watch Works Iconik 3, giving it a vintage vibe without being overly old-school about it. The 42.5mm stainless steel case is of course quite modern, as is the Seiko NE15 automatic movement. I daresay the double-domed sapphire crystal would be a marked improvement over the original as well.

Wearing the Manchester Watch Works Iconik 3 is a fairly comfortable affair, and the watch takes on an unassuming role on your wrist. Given the overall styling, this is definitely more of a casual watch, though it works well for the office. When I showed it to my buddy at work who is also into watches, he immediately commented on how round the case feels, due to the veritable lack of lugs. The lugs are pretty slimmed down, and it gives the watch a taller feel than it might otherwise seem.

Visually, the thickness is kept down some on the Manchester Watch Works Iconik 3 with how they constructed the case. It is worth noting, however, that the caseback extends out from the back of the case (odd, given how much space there seems to be between the dial and crystal – but then again, I’ve never assembled a watch), so there is a practical thickness to be mindful of, particularly if your shirt cuffs run tighter.

The time I had with the Manchester Watch Works Iconik 3 was enjoyable, and this feels like a good summertime watch, With the 200m WR rating, you wouldn’t be afraid to get it wet, and the overall styling – as I mentioned before – has a very casual vibe to it. When the watch was available, it was running for $460; we’ll have to see how they do on the secondary market when they pop up. For now, I’ll just say “keep your eyes peeled”, and also keep an eye on MWW, as their newer watch releases seem to be moving quite quickly. For their existing products, you can use the code WWR2017 to get 15% off anything on the site through May 31, 2017. manchesterwatchworks.com

Review Summary

Brand & Model: Manchester Watch Works Iconik 3
Price: $460

Who’s it for? You like the look of vintage subs, but want a watch that wasn’t actually inspired by the Submariner
Would I wear it? Sure thing – it’s a nice change of pace for the office or the weekends
What I’d change: I wouldn’t mind seeing it shave a few mm from it’s height

The best thing about it: The overall look with the dial, lume, and strap

Tech Specs from MWW

Bead blasted 316L steel case, 42.5 mm diameter and 47mm lug to lug, 22mm strap width at lugs

200m water resistance
Double domed sapphire crystal with inner anti-reflective coating
Finely finished Japanese Seiko NE15 automatic movement with 24 jewels, 21,600 bph and 50+ hour power reserve

120 click unidirectional bezel with matte finished aluminum bezel insert and lumed 12:00 marker
Textured olive military style woven nylon strap with leather backing
Vintage white dial with old radium look Superluminova on hands, dial and 12:00 bezel marker