When it comes to a watch that is rugged looking and can handle a lot of impact, most people would look to a G-shock. But these days, watch enthusiasts are looking for something a little more “collector” orientated, or one that has many of the things we look for in a more upscale watch, but with that rugged and hard use quality built in. Swiss Army has come out with a watch called the Inox and Reactor has been making hard use watches for years.
Enter another hard use and rugged watch in the form of the Tire’d Rapide. I read another review of this watch that said while it might initially make you think of G-shock, these two watches should not be spoken of in the same breath. I agree. (Spot on Mark Andrews). While the Rapide does have a rubber outer case and strap that has a monster truck tire pattern, it is completely different in movement, materials used and finishing.
The Rapide uses a titanium inner case, a rubber strap with a waterproof red leather lining, an ETA 2892 automatic movement, a sapphire crystal and a custom titanium adjustable clasp. Speaking of custom, this is exactly what the entire Tire’d Rapide watch is. Owner Edward Cole designed this watch from scratch, had it machined from scratch and had it done in Switzerland. He did not cut any corners here. The inspiration for this watch, was him designing a watch for him, for his lifestyle and one that looked like he wanted it to. The result was a high quality watch that can be worn in almost any condition, with high quality and upscale components.
In my time with the Rapide, I can say it is truly a unique watch. I remember when I first saw this watch a year or so ago, and at first I was not convinced. I did not feel it was worth the asking price because the design for the price was so polarizing. Getting it in hand my opinion has changed, albeit a few minor complaints. Speaking to Ed on the phone, he realizes this watch is not for everyone. He knows it is a niche brand. And he is okay with that. It is for people who are outdoors, for people who live a hard and fast lifestyle of skiing, snowboarding, camping, hiking, etc. but do not want a quartz and plastic watch. They want the shock resistance and a watch that can take the bumps and bruises but also want a watch that has the components that can match with their Breitling.
Please take a look at my video review below to get the best look at the Tire’d Rapide.
Tire’d Rapide Full Specifications:
- Case Size: 49mm/44m at bezel
- Case Materials: Rubber and titanium
- Case Thickness: 15mm
- Lug to Lug: 53mm
- Lug Width: 28mm (Tapers to 20mm)
- Weight: 137.5 grams
- Crystal: Sapphire with hand carved triangular date loupe
- Crown: Screw down, Titanium
- Movement: ETA 2892-A2 automatic movement
- Strap/Bracelet: Combination Rubber/leather
- Buckle: Deployment, Titanium
- Water Resistance: 10ATM/100M
- Price: $2450.00 USD
While the Tire’d Rapide is a large watch, and feels slightly larger than its case dimensions (due to the continuous strap to case attachment), it is very light and comfortable with the combination of rubber and grade 5 titanium that is used for the construction.
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