Nine Four Watches Review - Successor Automatic

Today, we come back to the 94 SUCCESSOR , a watch we had the privilege of taking a look at during their prototype stage. The watch is now ready for sale and available via their webshop linked below. Let us see how it came out!
Some Updates:
( Better Lume )
​( Applied Logo )

Nine Four Webshop

Case

The successor is most definitely a good size, one that can accompany wrists of all sizes in this modern era of slimming down, the solid 316L stainless steel case is for the most part brushed, without error. In terms of measurements it comes in at a very impressive 10.5MM thick with a diameter of 40MM. Looking at lug to lug distance is comes in at around 49MM due to those end curves and integrated bracelet adding a MM or two. The watch definitely wears like a smaller 40MM watch due to that integrated AP style bracelet, and it hugs the wrist very nicely. One thing I really adore is the 100 Meters of water resistance, making this a water capable watch to swim with or even shower with if you please. It seems most watches with this design cue seem to be 50M water resistant, so the 94 successor definitely has an advantage there. The caseback is screwed down with simple specification and a polished brim whilst the signed crown is pull/push. The crown is small enough to match the case dimensions, but doesn't effect the use of it - it is still easy to manipulate and grasp. Overall, its a nice slim fit that can definitely be dressed up or down - whichever may suit your lifestyle.

Dial

The Black dial variant I chose is my favorite over the blue Plank styled dial options they offer in this series. Black and steel just seem to fit perfect together in my watchgeek mind. We have a rather simple dial, but very symmetrical at the same time with applied lumed markers and shark lume filled hands. The applied 94 logo is applied below 12:00 whilst automatic is printed above 6:00. They were going for an overall clean and uncluttered dial, as a watch of this style should be - and I think they knocked it out of the park. Some brands seem to print too much information making the watch a bit too cluttered and annoying, which I do not really enjoy...I prefer a clean piece that I can quickly glance at the time without being distracted by useless text I already know about watch. All of this sits below a nice sapphire crystal with very good AR coating as it does not really show much glare.

Movement

The movement used in this model is the same as the prototype I reviewed a while back, it is the infamous NH35A automatic movement produced in house by powerhouse watch manufacturer Seiko. This movement is reliable, fairly accurate, contains all the extras we watch fans want - and helps keep the price at a level where our wives will be happy..The movement features Hacking seconds, Winding via Crown, 40 Hours of Power Reserve, and a beat rate of 21,600 BPH. I have a lot of experience with this movement and I can say myself that they are extremely tough, robust, and can go years upon years without a service.

Integrated Bracelet

The integrated bracelet really completes this Genta-Ish design they went for, and without it..I dont think the watch would look complete. It features a brushed finish with pins to adjust for a clean fit. I also do enjoy the butterfly clasp and clean look it displays when on wrist. I, myself found it to be quite comfortable and did not have an issue. It doesnt pull hairs or annoy my wrist , which is always a good thing! With all that being said, this bracelet will have to be used with this watch, but I am assuming at some point they may release an integrated rubber band or leather band to accompany it as many companies do. Otherwise, I dont have a problem myself using the bracelet as it is finished well without any sharp edges and conforms and articulates nicely for comfort.

Conclusion

Furthermore, the Successor is definitely a competitor in its' space - it has all the goodies we watch enthusiasts strive to search for when choosing a watch below $300 USD. We get a robust and accurate caliber, great lume, Sapphire crystal, and a clean symmetrical dial with great legibility. There is really nothing not to like about this watch, and If I were you I would definitely look into the brand and see for yourself. I do wonder what this Milwaukee based brand has planned for the future and I with them the best of luck!