Cushion case dive watches are a strong personal favorite, as I have owned many over the years from various manufacturers. The style, at least personally, is timeless and suitable for any venue whether business, casual or sport. I have found the comfort level to typically be superb in any situation. Additionally, the case style tends to be perfect for almost any strap, whether a great Isofrane dive strap or the finest of custom leather straps, the Maranez Racha dive watch is no exception.
Maranez, a small watch company based out of Hong Kong, China, was established within the last couple of years. The watches produced from Maranez originate from factories in China and have some resemblance to other popular micro brands such as Benarus and Helson, amongst others. The company goal, according to the Maranez website, is to create “affordable and reliable watches with a timeless design.” Besides the well-liked designs, the first aspect that will catch the eye typically is affordability with models starting under $300USD. The Racha, I believe, was the first dive watch model from Maranez with a limited production of 100 pieces. The Racha delivers the below impressive specifications at a still reasonable cost.
Movement: Miyota 9015 automatic
Case diameter: 44mm excluding the crown
Case material: Brushed stainless steel
Crystal: Sapphire (double domed), inner AR coating
Water-reistance: 1000m/3300ft
Strap: 24mm leather and 24mm diver strap. Mesh bracelet as option available.
Buckle: Brushed stainless steel
Price: $549 plus shipping
Price: $599 with mesh bracelet plus shipping
The packaging supplied is quite functional. Instead of a tube or box, Maranez provides a roll package. The roll would be quite useful for travel, because a tube or box typically ends up in the closet taking up space. Included in the packaging, along with the Racha Diver, one will find an extra leather strap, stainless steel bezel, tools and warranty card. As far as my first impressions of the diver are concerned, I was initially surprised by the reflective nature of the watch, but very pleased with the overall appearance. I am a huge cushion case dive watch fan and Maranez really delivered.
