VAER Watch Review - American Assembled Quality Everyday Watches under $200

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Case

The Vaer field and classic variations both contain the same materials and dimensions just to lay that on the table before I resume here. So, Vaer does make some really cool waterproof watches that actually surprised me the first time I handled their timepieces. The solid 316L brushed cases feel tough, robust, with a beautiful brushed finish. The actual dimensions come in at just the perfect modern size of 40MM by 9.5MM thick. I feel this size can accomodate those of us with average sized wrists such as myself, and larger wrists as well. One of the best aspects of their timepieces is that they are actually assembled here in America in California - where Vaer hails from in Venice Beach. The second best aspect of both their models is the 100 Meters of water resistance combined with a screw down crown and caseback. It’s kind of the perfect everyday watch no matter what climate your in , hot or cold.

Dial

The dial on the field model is a matte black color with your standard no nonsense legible arabics applied around the dial. The dial does also contain a 24 hour military ring which dates back to field watches used in war eras. I like the hands, long and rectangular filled with decent lume as well as the arabic numerals - which reminds me of my Hamilton Khaki Field. Down at 6:00 you can see the “American Assembled” print which is nice to see on a watch nowadays especially when the majority of smaller brands are 100% produced and assembled in China/Hong Kong. Overall, I have found it to be legible and easy to read at a glance which is pretty much the only characteristic I NEED in a field watch. On the Classic model we get much more of a minimalist and casual style dial in a nice blue color pallet. Its’ the kind of style that can go well with a pair of khakis and a polo while walking along Rodeo drive eating an ice cream...Lastly the crystal is a genuine Sapphire crystal which is typically not seen on watches with these specifications at $150-$170 which is a sort of a dealbreaker for me. Sapphire is much more resilient to scratches and generally harder than something like a mineral crystal.

Movement

The movement utilized in the date model is the Ronda 715 which is a very good swiss made quartz movement. It does run on a battery and accuracy is not as issue here within a couple seconds gained a month. The Non-Date dial on the classic model uses the non date Ronda 515 swiss movement, basically the same exact movement without a date function. For the price point under $200 for these models - this was honestly the best way to go and I do not have a problem with these movements.

Nato Strap or American Made Leather?

Vaer includes two straps with each watch they sell and there are a number of colors and variations to choose from if you take a look at their website. The two straps included with my field model included a Black Nato strap and a baige color Nato. These straps are all 20MM and come equipped with a spring bar tool as well. The quality is decent with brushed branded hardware and they feel comfy on wrist - no issue here. On the other hand, the Classic came with an extra Horween American Made quick-release band which they produce in California. It is one of those bands that feels like it was custom made for you, and has a real hand crafted feel to it ( well, it is hand crafted :).

Conclusion

In conclusion, Vaer is definitely offering some great value oriented packages here punching way above their pricepoint. Their timepieces definitely check all the boxes for me when looking at what I am actually getting for the price ( Sapphire - Excellent case work - Swiss Movement - Extra band ). I can definitely reccommend this brand to my readers and feel most would enjoy wearing one, as I certainly am at the moment.