Another great feature of the Valkyrie model is the large date below the 12 o’clock position. I am one that either wants a date that can be read easily or just simply leave the date window off the watch. The date on the Valkyrie is extremely legible and perfect for those of us visually impaired. Some additional features of the dial adding to the flair of the Valkyrie model are applied lumed hour markers outlined in a high polished finish to correspond with the high polished finishes of the case and also the high polished handset. The handset is skeletonized but well lumed near the tips. The red chronograph second hand once again adds another element of flair to the Valkyrie, also lumed near the tip. My initial thought, before I saw the watch in person, was the dial was going to be far to busy, however, due to the overall massive size and surface area of the watch, I found it quite easy to read an not all that busy. In this particular example the asymmetrical appearance really works.
The case back is screwed down and just like the rest of the case has both brushed and high polished finishes. Various specifications are etched around the central portion of the case back including the limited/signature edition information. Beneath the case back ticks a reliable Miyota 6S50 quartz movement. While I’ll admit being a fan of automatic movements, especially Swiss automatics, the use of the quartz movement in this pilot watch was probably the better option due to overall accuracy and reliability. Quartz will also tend to take a bit more of a beating over an automatic so truly an excellent choice of movements.
The bracelet and silicon rubber strap are both fantastic for the most part. First, the silicon rubber is just like any other silicon rubber strap with one primary downside, it is a lint magnet. Be prepared to wipe it down frequently. However, the rubber strap is super comfortable and features integrated links at the lug ends for a more secure and durable connection to the case. One of the great novel features resides on the tail end of the strap with an attached stainless Reactor logo which when strapped on the wrist can be seen through a specially designed keeper providing a unique look unlike any strap that I can remember. The strap measures 24mm at the lug tapering to 22mm at the buckle. The bracelet is big and bold just like the rest of the watch with links measuring 4mm in overall thickness. The same knurled texturing found on the crowns and bezel has been utilized on the central portion of the bracelet links. The center portion of the links is also PVD coated to provide some color contrast and coordinate with the black bezel insert and dial. The links are assembled together using fiction pins, which is a feature that has always puzzled me about Reactor bracelets. I think to improve upon the Reactor DNA they should start using screws to connect the links on their bracelets. I really like that Reactor decided to use a diver’s flip lock clasp with safety rather than a dual deploy or some other clasp design. Oh and yes micro adjustments are present to gain that more precise fit.
The lume on the Valkyrie is outstanding just like any other model from Reactor. While the specifications do not specifically note the exact compound, it seems similar, if not the same to C3 Superluminova, with additional application for greater longevity. All the dial markers and the handset contain lume.
The Valkyrie is extremely comfortable on the wrist for such a large watch. I would attribute the comfort to the case design as the lugs have a nice curvature to them allowing the watch to conform nicely to the wrist with very little overhang, at least on my 7 3/4 inch wrist. Of course, I believe anyone with a wrist size under 7 inches might not experience the same comfort level as there will most certainly be some overhang at the lugs.
If you are looking for a big and bold pilot watch then you may want to check out the Valkyrie. The model is a fully functional pilot watch with a ton of great specifications such as case design, lug bars, E6B slide rule bezel, screw down crown system, chronograph, accurate Miyota quartz movement and great lume. Just in case anyone is interested in where Reactor watches originate, I have been informed that they source their stainless steel from Japan. Ninety-nine percent of their watch movements are from Japan as they feel those movements are more durable and reliable than other options. The dials are produced in Taiwan as they claim the vendor that they utilize is the only one capable of the level of Superluminova application required. Assembly is completed in Southern China but final quality control checks occur in the United States. Transparency on how their watches are created and assembled is an important reason to put a little trust in trying out a Reactor watches. Thanks for reading and I look forward to your comments. Please take a moment to view my brief video presentation on the Valkyrie below for an even greater perspective on this big and bold pilot watch.
Zegarek
Beautyfull watch and Mneral glass ;/