Vario
Origin
Category
PRice RanGe
Vario is a highly innovative, design-driven independent microbrand founded in 2016 by graphic designer Ivan Chua and his wife Judy in Singapore. Originally beginning as a boutique watch strap and accessories studio, before branching out into watchmaking. Vario incorporates 20th-century history, transitioning seamlessly from the rugged military trenches of World War I to the clean, architectural symmetries of Art Deco and the space-age retro-futurism of the 1970s.
Vario’s visual signature is entirely original, defined by absolute period-accurate typography, highly distinct case structures, and exceptional geometric detail. Rather than producing generic sports watch silhouettes, the brand custom-engineers completely unique casework—such as wire-lug trench cases, Streamline Moderne rectangular reversible chassis, and symmetrical layouts with crowns positioned at 12 o’clock. To complement their historic storytelling, every watch features exquisite dial textures ranging from sector-groove Art Deco motifs and sand-grain field finishes to multi-faceted sapphire crystals that recreate vintage 1970s light-play.
TWJ Favourite Watch
One of the toughest choices here, as Vario makes some really good quality watches; any of these would be a valid pick, from the versatility of the Versa with its flippable 2-sided dial. The faceted crystal an futurist stylings of the Futurist with its eye-catching dials. My winner, though, had to be a watch I already own, one that is far simpler in design but great in its execution: the solar quartz-powered 1945 A-11S in Eagle Grey. This watch feels like a proper field watch. Simple no-nonsense display, comfortable on the wrist and practical thanks to the solar movement. However, the watch isn’t boring; it’s interesting. I find that it regularly makes it onto my wrist over and over again, and enjoying it each time I wear it.
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