We’re big fans of outdoor and analog-digital watches, and this new Wenger model scratches both itches. It’s a men’s quartz watch, with an old-school LED digital display beneath the analog hands, adding a compass to the more usual repotoire of functionality. Available on bracelet (model 70436) or red-stitched black silicone strap (70430), this one looks pretty good:
- 316L brushed-finish stainless steel case, 43mm across, 22mm lugs.
- Water resistant to 100m (330ft).
- Mineral glass crystal.
- Swiss quartz movement.
- Non-screw-down crown.
- Bracelet version is 5-link, alternating brushed and polished, with deployant buckle.
- Digital portion has a digital compass, day/date/month, second time zone.
The specifications leave some questions unanswered – are the hands driven by the movement, or set separately? Is the analog portion illuminated, lumed, both or none? Does it have a low-battery indicator? Can you turn off the LEDs for a cleaner face? (Almost certainly considering the power consumption of LEDs). Despite the unknowns, it’s an attractive watch and I hope we can get one for review.
A quick internet search finds it for sale at around $400 USD. That’s pretty good, though for that price I’d prefer to get a sapphire crystal.
By Paul Hubbard
