When we see brands that get their start on Kickstarter, we’re used to seeing one of three things: an uninspired quartz three-hander that “cuts out the middleman” (and looks like 10 other watches you’ve seen), something bland that uses an affordable mechanical movement, or finally something that really looks like a unique combination of design, movement, and materials. That’s what you get with the Venturian Wildsider, particularly in it’s new 38mm guise.
So, this is on Kickstarter?
No, actually. While Venturian got started on Kickstarter with the original Venturian Wildsider, this new version is going directly from their site. Though, given the price for the materials used, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’re getting an early bird special price.
What do we like about the watch?
For starters, we really like the handset. It’s unique, while managing to be both skeletonized and oversized (and, we hope, lumed). Next up, let’s talk that case. It’s 38mm, only 10mm thick, and it’s made from titanium. So, it’s compact, light and tough, and should be eminently wearable. Finally, let’s get into movement. I am all about solar movements, as they’re the ultimate no-fuss quartz option, particularly on a watch that’s meant for outdoors adventures, as this one is.
What would we change?
Given how oversized the handset is, the date window feels positively puny. If we were in charge of the design, we’d either get an oversized window (and date disc) in the mix, or just delete the date window all together. Next up, let’s talk about that compass bezel. It fits the outdoors approach, sure, but we’d prefer to see a standard timing bezel. Because even with those, you can still use an analog watch to tell direction (more on that here). Finally, there’s the matter of the engraving on the side of the bezel. This one, it’s a bit of a coin toss. Sure, it’s empty space, but do you really need a reminder to go outside and explore nature?
In summation
That all said, the fact that you can get the 38mm Venturian Wildsider 38mm for $339, well, that can have you overlooking some of those items in the prior section. If you need a tough watch that will just keep working – either for yourself or someone headed off to college – it would be hard to a argue against this design given what you get for the price. Available in three dial colors, you can check it out and order yours at venturian.co.
Tech Specs from Venturian
- Case: 38MM
- Lugs: 3MM
- Lug to lug: 44MM
- Lug Width: 20MM
- Spring Bar: Removeable
- Thickness: 10.05MM including crystal
- Crown: Monogram screw down
- Case Material: Titanium
- Crystal: Sapphire with anti-reflective coating
- Back Case: Universal locking
- Lume: Super Luminova
- Strap: Interchangeable black 20MM nylon Zulu Nato with four gunmetal gray stainless steel rings
- Water Resistance: 100 Meters (10ATM)
- Movement: Epson Solar Movement VS22B-07
