Fonderia Navale Cóndor Mens Watch Review

Packaging

Case

The all new Fonderia Navale Cóndor ( sister brand of PONTVS ) will be available for Pre-Order and is definitely a step up in all around quality and feel. The case itself if you did not notice is comprised of solid CUSN8 German Bronze. For those of you who do not know, a Bronze watch will develop a nice patina over time - allowing for a truly personal watch. The case is a simple three piece construction with a fine brushed finish. Now, the watch is 44MM with a lug to lug distance of 51MM. Yes, it is going to wear larger than a 40-42 - but not by much with the 51MM wingspan. My wrist is 6.75” and it only goes about 1MM over the end of my wrist which is acceptable in my book. In terms of water resistance - the watch features a large and very grippable screwdown crown and steel caseback which gives us 200M of water resistance. It is most certainly a watch that can be used for many occasions including water activities, work, and formal events as well. It truly is a bold and statement piece as it will stand out on the wrist.

Steel caseback featuring your custom edition number and detailed eagle with star

Dial

This iteration features a milky brown chocolate color dial which really plays along well with the bronze case color. It also features large cathedral traditional hands making it extremely legible during the day and when the sun sets. Some small nice details include the perfectly cut numerals and railroad track just outside the chapter ring. Getting to the lume, C3 SuperLuminova covers all the hands, numerals, and thin arrow tipped seconds hand. The lume is quite responsive and it does last for some time. ( Lume Shot Below ). All in all, it is a very traditional layout - and one that many people are fond of. Other standard featured include a domed Sapphire crystal with AR coating for increased legibility in the sun.

Movement

Powering the Condor is the standard Seiko NH35 automatic caliber. This movement features 24 jewels and beats at 3 HZ ( 21,600 BPH ). It is a true workhorse and reliable movement which many smaller brands utilize due to its’ cost effectiveness and durability. These things are also quite accurate gaining arouns 5-10 seconds each day. Another nice feature of the NH35 is the hacking and self-wind via the onion crown.

Leather Band

The 24MM leather band is actually oiled and brown in color to match the dial. It also features white stitching and a large oversized bronze buckle. The band itself is definitely comfortable and easy to break in due to the oiling process. However, I think if you can find a nice 24MM Nato or Canvas band this thing would pop even more and you would get more use out of the 100M water resistance for the summer season. Overall, I cannot really complain about it.

Conclusion

Furthermore, the Condór is definitely a good looking watch on the wrist, that is for sure. It has all those components most microbrand lovers are looking for in a $499 Bronze automatic watch. I do believe the Pre-Order or introduction price will be $100 less so I do suggest grabbing one of these limited edition pieces before the price jumps. I also like the water resistant rating of 200M and the durable tough factor this watch feels like in hand - allowing it to be used in almost any occasion.