When we first looked at Obris Morgan (almost a year ago), I denoted that while it was a decent (and affordable) watch, it did have some rough edges. I’m glad to report that their latest model, the Branco, shows how far they’ve come.
While the whole range is denoted by the reference number of T.012.01.A, there are actually nine variants (three case finishes: brushed, blasted or finished; three lume colors: white, green or apricot). For our sample, we were sent the blasted case with green lume/indices. And that’s where the first (nice) surprise came in – the review sample actually came over from Motor City Watch Works in Detroit. Always a good thing to hear you’ll get your watch a little quicker with it being shipped from within the states, no?
But, on to the watch. The thing that strikes you is a how well sorted the piece is. The titanium case (steel case back) measures in at 43mm (12mm thick) is quite light on the wrist – and allows for a really clean layout of the sandwich dial. The hands are also well-proportioned to the dial, and definitely make it simple to read the time. And, while it’s a minor thing, I’m a fan of needle-thin seconds hands that practically touch the edge of the case, as we have here (a shame the C3 SuperLuminova didn’t end up on it as well).
So, what movement do we have driving the hands? Last time around, we saw a Seagull movement doing the heavy lifting. Here, we have another change (I think for the better, in terms of serviceability) – they’ve gone with the ever-present Miyota 8215. While I’m fine with the Seagull movements (TY2355 is what the Flieger has), I think the Miyota is going to make a buyers much more comfortable going with the watch.
Last, but certainly not least, we have the straps included with the watch. Here, OM has made more great strides. You have two leather straps (great smelling calf) in brown and black (one Pre-V buckle, one thumbnail), as well as a rubber strap. In our last review, I felt the straps were definitely on the “budget” side, and actually didn’t fit well.
This time around, these are really some quality straps. As a matter of fact, were you to order one by itself here, it would cost you $42 – and I think that’s well in line. I also like the fact that you’ve got the two different buckle styles on the 22mm straps. I know many like the Pre-V style, but I find that the thumbnail style causes less issues on my wrist. Here, you can change out to your hearts content.
Throw in the AR-coated sapphire crystal, and 200 meter water resistance rating, and you’re likely worried that prices have gone way up with this titanium beauty entering their lineup. Well, rest easy – if you head here, you’ll see that they’re only $229 ($239 for the PVD models). Frankly, this is a steal for the components, materials and design you’re getting here. Yes, the variety of fonts (and amount of text) on the dial is a bit off-putting at first.
If you’re going to pick one up, you’ll want to get your order in sooner, rather than later. It actually took us a little bit to get our review sample, as they kept running out of stock (so, that should tell you something about the watch as well). In the end, Obris Morgan has made great strides in the last year – and this is a watch you’ll definitely want to check out.
