We are always on the lookout for exciting new finds that are unique at great price points, and it is our mission to shine some well-deserved spotlight on these excellent timepieces. If you’re familiar with VAER, you might think of their high quality and affordable field and dive watches. However, in this article we are discussing the new and super-exciting VAER R1 Racing Chronograph, definitely worthy of a closer inspection. Let’s take a look!
Specs:
- Movement: Meca-Quartz
- Caliber: Seiko VK-63
- Case Width: 38 mm
- Lug-to-lug: 46 mm
- Lug Width: 20 mm
- Water Resistance: 100 meters
- Price: Under $400
VAER: The Brand
In 2016, Ryan Torres and Reagan Cook established VAER in Venice, California. Their objective was to produce durable and reasonably priced watches that could serve as everyday timepieces. To ensure their quality, Torres and Cook personally tested the initial prototypes in real-life scenarios such as free diving, surfing, drop tests, boiling water submersions, and even exposure to high altitudes in the Himalayas. After years of dedicated work, VAER successfully launched its first batch of American assembled watches in the spring of 2018, offering customers the most affordable USA-assembled watches on the market.
Through the support and trust of watch enthusiasts and outdoor enthusiasts, VAER gradually expanded its presence. The company’s growth was fueled by customer loyalty, allowing them to avoid relying on external funding. One aspect we appreciate about VAER is their sustainable-growth business model, which prioritizes the value of their products over profit margins.
VAER R1 Racing Chronograph: Overview
The VAER R1 Racing Chronograph is a vintage-inspired statement piece. Its cushion-shaped case with the cream dial design combination definitely brings us to a ‘60 auto racing vibe. The brushed stainless steel case is 38 mm wide, a size we don’t see very often with racing chronographs, therefore it is a good, versatile size for smaller wrists as well. The vibrant red accent color on the dial gives a highly dynamic look. Overall, The VAER R1 is a classic vintage-inspired racing chronograph with features to fit the everyday practicality of our modern lives.
Specs:
- Movement: Meca-Quartz
- Caliber: Seiko VK-63
- Case Width: 38 mm
- Lug-to-lug: 46 mm
- Lug Width: 20 mm
- Water Resistance: 100 meters
- Price: Under $400
Dial
The cream dial provides a light appearance that is counterbalanced by vibrant colored details. The 24-hour subdial on the right is all black, the 60-minute subdial on the left is half black and half red, providing a pop of color in a symmetrical way. The seconds subdial has the same cream color as the main dial, connecting the functionalities together visually, and further interconnecting the other two subdials with the bright red second hand. The chronograph seconds hand has a yellow color, bridging the gap between the pastel cream and vivid red and black.
The syringe hour and minute hands are visually strong, and this design is perfect as the dial itself doesn’t have Arabic or Roman numerals – other than the very small minute markers on the inner tachymeter.
Case
The cushion-shaped case is not just an old-school look, but the large brushed stainless steel surfaces give a large-size presence on your wrist, even though the watch itself is not big.
The width of the case is at a very comfortable 38 mm, and the lug-to-lug distance is at 46 mm therefore making it a comfortable wear for most wrist sizes – especially under 7 inches. If you have a bigger wrist and think the watch might look small on you, do not worry, as the 12.6 mm case height makes the watch a true sports watch, and the timepiece will look substantial. In case you are still hesitant about the size, VAER has a larger version of the R1 Racing Chrono at 42 mm case width.
The lug width is 20 mm, and all VAER watches come with a quick release mechanism, so giving the R1 Chrono a fresh look can be done easily without any tools.
On the side, we have the usual pushers at 2 and 4 o’clock positions, and the locking screw-down crown at 3 o’clock.
The R1 Chrono offers water resistance up to 100 meters.
Movement
The VAER R1 is equipped with the Seiko VK-63 Meca-Quartz movement. This watch utilizes quartz technology for its primary functions, with a mechanical module specifically for operating the chronograph. This combination allows for a seamlessly sweeping hand, mechanical pushers, and an immediate snap back when resetting.
Essentially, the VK63 movement is identical to the 6T63 caliber. Seiko utilizes the 6T63 caliber for their own Seiko watches, while the VK63 caliber is manufactured specifically for non-Seiko watches.
Rubber Tropic Strap
The R1 Chrono comes with a rubber tropic strap. The tropic strap is a very comfortable choice, especially in hot weather, or around salt water. It is also equipped with a quick release feature, therefore you can take it off without using any tools – a practicality that’s becoming very popular. The distance between the lugs is 20 mm.
VAER – as usual – gives you the option to pick another strap, and you can choose between a jubilee stainless steel bracelet and leather straps in different colors. We love the excellent value and the fact that you can customize the look for your individual needs.
Pros and Cons
Let’s take a look at the summary of pros and cons, in our humble opinion:
Pros
- The 38 mm case width is perfect for all wrist sizes.
- Unique, vintage-inspired design.
- Very comfortable wear.
- Excellent price point.
Cons:
- It’s a racing chronograph, therefore it’ll always have a sporty appearance that’s not the most appropriate for more formal events.
- No date window – not a deal breaker for us, but it could be very important for some.
Summary: Takeaway and Final Thoughts About VAER R1 Racing Chronograph
With its distinctive personality, the VAER R1 Racing Chrono is a statement piece. Its vintage-inspired racing design is using somewhat understated colors and some vibrant secondary colors to make certain elements pop and give the watch a dynamic look. Boasting a 38 mm case width and a 46 mm lug-to-lug distance, this watch is a comfortable wear for smaller wrists as well. The reliable Seiko VK-63 Meca-Quartz movement should give you a solid 40-month battery life. We’re excited to see VAER branching out to new designs, and the R1 Racing Chronograph is a stunning new timepiece.
Specs:
- Movement: Meca-Quartz
- Caliber: Seiko VK-63
- Case Width: 38 mm
- Lug-to-lug: 46 mm
- Lug Width: 20 mm
- Water Resistance: 100 meters
- Price: Under $400
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