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WatchRider

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WatchRider is a broad-audience watch site with a "real-world reviews, original photography, accuracy checks, and stories from watch collectors" tagline. Coverage runs from affordable everyday pieces to luxury releases, with a strong long-term ownership angle: rate testing, worn-in impressions, and watches spotted on-screen. Published in multiple languages.
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Orient Mako Gets a GMT for the First Time in Five Cool Colors WatchRider
Oris ed UK retailer Aug 20, 2026

Orient Mako Gets a GMT for the First Time in Five Cool Colors

Orient has given its long-running Mako sports watch a GMT function for the first time. Five references have appeared for the Autumn/Winter 2026 collection, comprising four regular models and one 4,000-piece limited edition. The watches were listed as in stock by an authorised UK retailer on 20 August 2026. Orient’s own global catalogue and press archive had not yet added them at the time of writing, so broader regional availability remains unconfirmed. A Larger Mako With Familiar Equipment The Mako GMT uses a 42.8 mm case made from brushed and polished 316L stainless steel. It measures 49.5 mm from lug to lug and 13.4 mm thick, making this a substantial watch rather than a compact travel companion. Each version has a sapphire crystal, a solid caseback and 20 bar, or 200 metres, of water resistance. The three-link steel bracelet has solid end pieces and a deployant clasp. Around the dial is a 120-notch unidirectional bezel carrying a 24-hour scale instead of the usual elapsed-time markings. The New F6P22 Automatic GMT Calibre Inside is Orient’s F6P22 automatic GMT movement. The current listings state a power reserve of approximately 40 hours, hacking seconds and an accuracy range of +25 to -15 seconds per day. The movement drives the normal hour, minute and seconds hands, the date at 3 o’clock and a fourth central hand that completes one turn every 24 hours. There is an important limitation. The GMT hand cannot be adjusted independently on this first version. To show ...

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A Look at the New Certina DS-1 Chronograph Automatics: Models C029.462.16.011.00 and C029.462.26.051.00 WatchRider
Certina DS-1 Chronograph Automatics Models Aug 18, 2026

A Look at the New Certina DS-1 Chronograph Automatics: Models C029.462.16.011.00 and C029.462.26.051.00

Over the years, I have added a few Certina watches to my collection. I enjoy wearing them because the brand consistently delivers timepieces that are well-made and nice to look at. Certina has a reputation for building solid, reliable watches, and my personal experience with them has confirmed this. Recently, they introduced two new models to their DS-1 Chronograph Automatic lineup: reference C029.462.16.011.00 and reference C029.462.26.051.00. I took some time to look closely at these releases to see what they offer. Both of these new chronographs share the same core foundation. They are housed in a 42-millimeter case made from 316L stainless steel. This size gives the watch a substantial presence on the wrist without being overly bulky. Inside both watches beats the Valjoux A05.231 automatic movement. This is a movement that features a silicon hairspring, which helps protect the watch from magnetic fields. It also provides a generous 68-hour power reserve. This means you can take the watch off on a Friday evening, and it will still be running on Monday morning. As part of Certina’s Double Security concept, both models are water-resistant up to 100 meters and feature a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. Model C029.462.16.011.00: Clean and Classic Style The first model is the more traditional of the two. It features a crisp white dial set inside a polished silver-tone case. The dial layout is very clean, displaying the time, the date, and the chronograph sub-dials in a ...

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Tag Heuer Carrera Calibre 5 Review (WV211B): Am I Stuck in a 7-Year Dream with the Inception Watch? WatchRider
TAG Heuer Carrera Calibre 5 Review Aug 17, 2026

Tag Heuer Carrera Calibre 5 Review (WV211B): Am I Stuck in a 7-Year Dream with the Inception Watch?

I added the TAG Heuer Carrera Calibre 5 (Ref. WV211B.BA0787) to my collection back in 2019. Since then, I’ve been wearing it through various phases of daily life, travel and work. This review is not going to be filled with breathless hype or exaggerated claims about horological perfection. Instead, it is an honest, personal look at what it is actually like owning this specific Carrera. If you are considering buying one on the pre-owned market, this review is for you. And yes, we definitely need to talk about Inception. If you are short on time, here are the Pros and Cons The Pros: Timeless Dimensions: The 39mm case is extremely comfortable, versatile and avoids aging poorly with changing fashion trends.   Exceptional Build Quality: Punches well above its price point with crisp case edges, alternating polished and brushed steel, dual sapphire crystals and a beautifully finished bracelet. Cinematic Pedigree: While it shouldn’t be the only reason to buy a watch, the connection to Inception adds a layer of enjoyable history to the piece. Reliable Movement: The Calibre 5 is a robust, well-known movement that will never be difficult or exorbitantly expensive to maintain. The Cons: Water Resistance: 50 meters with a push-pull crown restricts this watch to land-based activities. Lug Width: The 19mm lug width makes sourcing third-party straps slightly inconvenient.   Lack of Clasp Adjustment: Achieving the perfect bracelet fit relies strictly on adding or removing h...

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Upcoming Casio MTP-E740 Series: Specs, Price, and Why It’s a £85 Steal WatchRider
Seiko Time Sonar Casio has Aug 16, 2026

Upcoming Casio MTP-E740 Series: Specs, Price, and Why It’s a £85 Steal

The upcoming Casio MTP-E740-4AV and MTP-E740-2A1V are vintage-inspired watches launching soon for just £85. Proving that budget-friendly watches don’t have to be boring, these new releases feature a stunning see-through dial design that punches well above its price bracket. A Striking Translucent Dial Design The standout feature of the new MTP-E740 series is undoubtedly its dial. Drawing heavy inspiration from the classic 1970s Seiko Time Sonar, Casio has incorporated a transparent face that reveals the mechanical day and date wheels underneath.   Usually, entry-level Casio day-date models hide this calendar mechanism behind a solid face. By exposing it, Casio gives these models a playful, layered, and premium look that is rarely seen at this price point.   The Standout Models: Orange and Navy While the collection features several colors, two models steal the show:  MTP-E740-4AV (Orange):   if you want a watch that immediately catches the eye, the MTP-E740-4AV is the undisputed star of the collection. The bright orange colorway perfectly complements the retro-futuristic transparent dial, giving the watch a summery, high-energy feel. Orange dials have historically been associated with dive watches and motorsport chronographs, but putting it on an everyday stainless steel piece gives it a remarkably fresh vibe.  The bright, vibrant orange dial is an absolute head-turner. It provides a bold contrast against the stainless steel case and makes the exposed cal...

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Timex Automatic E Line Grows to 38mm With Three New Integrated-Bracelet Models WatchRider
Timex Automatic E Line Grows Aug 15, 2026

Timex Automatic E Line Grows to 38mm With Three New Integrated-Bracelet Models

Timex has introduced a larger 38mm version of the Automatic E Line, turning the compact design that returned in 2024 into a more substantial watch with an integrated-bracelet appearance. The new range includes the silver TW6A00500, the two-tone TW6A00600 and the teal TW6A00700. All three share the same case dimensions, Japanese automatic movement, horizontally textured dial and date display. The teal TW6A00700 brings the strongest colour to the new 38mm Automatic E Line. This is not the first modern E Line. Timex revived the design as the Automatic 1983 E Line Reissue with a 34mm rounded-square case. That watch followed the size and simple character of the original more closely. The 38mm models keep the familiar TV-shaped outline but move the collection in a more modern direction. They are larger, thicker and fitted with a conventional butterfly clasp instead of the tool-free expansion band used by the smaller version. A 1983 Timex design in a much larger case The E Line name reaches back to a Timex watch from 1983. Its rounded-square case became known as a TV dial shape. The E Line name was connected to New York’s E subway line, which carried commuters toward Manhattan’s business district. The modern 34mm reissue brought that idea back in November 2024 with a stainless-steel case, an acrylic crystal and a Japanese automatic movement. The new watch is better described as a larger update inspired by that reissue rather than a strict recreation. Its 38mm stainless-steel ...

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Fossil Spider-Man vs. Hulk Limited-Edition Automatic Watches: Great Packaging, But Is It a Hit? WatchRider
Ming Aug 14, 2026

Fossil Spider-Man vs. Hulk Limited-Edition Automatic Watches: Great Packaging, But Is It a Hit?

If your inner 90s kid has a soft spot for comic books and mechanical watches, Fossil’s latest release might catch your eye. The brand has launched a new Marvel collection featuring two of the most recognizable heroes on the roster: Spider-Man and The Incredible Hulk.  The Incredible Hulk Edition: Loud and Green The Hulk watch makes a big entrance. Coming in at a chunky 45mm, it features a stainless steel case with the green giant literally bursting through the open-worked dial. Fossil leaned heavily into the classic green and purple color palette, carrying those shades through to the silicone and nylon strap.   It’s bold, it’s loud, and it honestly looks like something Bruce Banner would accidentally break during a temper tantrum. The Spider-Man Edition: Caught in a Web? On the other side of the ring, we have the Spider-Man edition. This one takes inspiration from the darker 1990s comic-book era, featuring a 42mm black stainless steel case. It has a gradient dial with dimensional webbing stretching across the crystal and down onto the leather strap.   However, I have a bone to pick with this one. While I appreciate the stealthy, moody vibe, I think the Spider-Man model is missing a bezel with interesting details. Looking at the smooth black case, I just feel like something is missing in terms of overall design. A textured bezel or some web-engraved details around the edge would have really tied the whole look together. Right now, it feels just a little too quiet...

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IWC Dresses the Big Pilot ProSet IW329603 in Black and Gold for 140 Years of Mercedes-Benz WatchRider
IWC Dresses Aug 14, 2026

IWC Dresses the Big Pilot ProSet IW329603 in Black and Gold for 140 Years of Mercedes-Benz

IWC introduced the Big Pilot’s Watch Perpetual Calendar ProSet 140 Years Mercedes-Benz on August 13, 2026. Reference IW329603 is limited to 140 pieces, one for each year since the invention of the automobile in 1886. The anniversary edition combines a 42mm stainless steel case with a black-and-gold dial and IWC’s new ProSet perpetual calendar, which can be corrected both forward and backward. The limited IW329603 combines a 42mm steel case, black dial and gold details. Image: IWC. The dial is the best part I like the design, especially the dial. The glossy black surface gives the four subdials enough visual separation, while the solid gold appliqués and gold-plated hands make the display warmer without making it look gaudy. A white minute track keeps the outer edge clear. The date sits at 3 o’clock, the month at 6, the day at 9 and the Double Moon display at 12. A four-digit year window appears between 7 and 8 o’clock. The angled view shows the solid gold appliqués, gold-plated hands and four calendar subdials. Image: IWC. The brushed and polished steel case is 42mm wide and 14mm thick. It remains a substantial watch, especially on my 6.5-inch wrist, but these dimensions are easier to imagine wearing than the traditional oversized Big Pilot format. A convex sapphire crystal has anti-reflective coating on both sides, while the sapphire caseback carries the first joint Mercedes-Benz logo from 1926, combining the three-pointed star with a laurel wreath. That histori...

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Seiko Revisits the 1913 Laurel With New Enamel and Urushi Presage Models HCC005 and HCC006 WatchRider
Seiko Revisits Aug 13, 2026

Seiko Revisits the 1913 Laurel With New Enamel and Urushi Presage Models HCC005 and HCC006

Seiko has introduced two new Presage Classic Series Craftsmanship watches that return to one of the most important designs in its history. The HCC005J1 uses a handmade white enamel dial while the HCC006J1 takes a darker route with black Urushi lacquer and a yellow-gold-coloured case. Both were announced on 13 August 2026 and are scheduled to reach Seiko boutiques and selected retailers in September 2026. These are not simple colour changes. Each model uses a traditional Japanese dial technique and each has its own character. The white version is the clearer tribute to Seiko’s original Laurel wristwatch from 1913. The black model keeps the same basic layout but changes the mood completely through lacquer, gold details and a warm case finish. A Return to the 1913 Laurel The Laurel is important because it was Japan’s first wristwatch. Its white enamel dial, expressive Arabic numerals and red 12 became a clear visual signature. Seiko has used those details before, but the HCC005J1 brings them together in a convincing modern package. The red numeral at 12 immediately catches the eye while the curved black numerals and blue hands keep the design easy to recognise. The new watches also add a 24-hour display at six o’clock. It gives the dial a little more depth without disturbing the balance of the numerals. This is not an independently adjustable second-time-zone function. It follows the main time and shows whether the watch is indicating the first or second half of the day...

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Seiko Presage x Tradman’s Bonsai HCC009J1 Turns Pine Into Gold WatchRider
Seiko Presage x Tradman’s Bonsai Aug 12, 2026

Seiko Presage x Tradman’s Bonsai HCC009J1 Turns Pine Into Gold

Seiko has introduced the Presage Classic Series x Tradman’s Bonsai Limited Edition HCC009J1, a new mechanical watch built around the colour and texture of a Japanese pine tree. It is scheduled for release in September 2026 and production is limited to 2,000 pieces worldwide. This is not a simple green-dial version of an existing Presage. The dial, gold-coloured case and included accessories all connect to the bonsai theme. A dial shaped by an old pine tree Tradman’s Bonsai was founded in 2015 with the aim of presenting traditional Japanese bonsai in a modern way. For this collaboration, the main reference is a sanko-matsu pine that is said to be more than 150 years old. The textured Matsuba-iro dial is inspired by the bark and needles of an old Japanese pine. The dial uses a deep green colour called Matsuba-iro, named after pine needles. Its strong pattern is inspired by the rough bark of an old pine tree. Light catches the raised texture from different angles, while the gold hands, applied hour markers and printed text stand clearly against the dark background. There is no date window, so nothing cuts through the pattern. Gold colour without a gold case The 38 mm case and bracelet are made from stainless steel with a gold-coloured hard coating. It is important to be clear that this is not a solid-gold watch. Seiko mixes brushed and polished surfaces across the case and multi-row bracelet, then adds a fine pattern around the bezel for more detail. The case measures 12....

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Swatch Marks Spain’s Total Solar Eclipse With a 24-Hour MoonSwatch Mission to the Sun Solar Eclipse SSX01J100-1 WatchRider
Swatch Aug 12, 2026

Swatch Marks Spain’s Total Solar Eclipse With a 24-Hour MoonSwatch Mission to the Sun Solar Eclipse SSX01J100-1

Swatch has created a new version of the Bioceramic MoonSwatch Mission to the Sun for Spain’s total solar eclipse on 12 August 2026. Called Mission to the Sun Solar Eclipse, reference SSX01J100-1, the watch is available only in Spain and only for 24 hours on the day of the eclipse. Online purchases are limited to three watches per person. The watch is reference SSX01J100-1 and was offered exclusively in Spain for 24 hours. Image: Swatch. A small change with a clear eclipse connection This is not a completely new MoonSwatch. It uses the familiar Mission to the Sun colour scheme with a bright yellow Bioceramic case, white tachymeter bezel and white rubber strap. The gold-coloured dial has a sun-brushed finish, while white hands and hour markers keep the display easy to read. Orange hands add contrast to the chronograph seconds and the three white subdials. The Solar Eclipse edition keeps the yellow and white Mission to the Sun colour scheme. Image: Swatch. The important new detail is the black chronograph pusher at two o’clock. The lower pusher remains yellow, so the dark upper button stands out immediately. It represents the Moon moving in front of the Sun during totality. Swatch has changed only one control, but that contrast gives the watch a direct link to the event without covering the dial in extra text or graphics. The black upper pusher represents the Moon covering the Sun during the total eclipse. Image: Swatch. The new moon appears on the back The other change i...

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Seiko Turns Keisuke Takahashi’s Yellow RX-7 FD3S Into a Limited Initial D Chronograph WatchRider
Seiko Turns Keisuke Takahashi’s Yellow Aug 11, 2026

Seiko Turns Keisuke Takahashi’s Yellow RX-7 FD3S Into a Limited Initial D Chronograph

Seiko has returned to the world of Initial D with a new chronograph dedicated to Keisuke Takahashi and his yellow Mazda RX-7 FD3S. The model continues the manga’s 30th-anniversary celebrations after the earlier Takumi Fujiwara AE86 watch. Orders opened in Japan in early August 2026, while deliveries are scheduled to begin in late January 2027. Production is limited to 1,995 individually numbered watches, matching the year Initial D began serialization. The connection is immediately clear. This is not a standard Seiko with a small logo added to the dial. The complete colour scheme and several smaller details come from Keisuke’s car, while the official campaign artwork places the watch beside the driver and his RX-7. The Initial D collaboration links the Seiko chronograph directly to Keisuke Takahashi and his yellow RX-7 FD3S. Image: PREMICO. The yellow RX-7 on the wrist The bright yellow dial copies the most recognizable feature of Keisuke’s RX-7. A black tachymeter bezel provides strong contrast and gives the chronograph a clear motorsport look. Three black subdials use red markings inspired by the illuminated instruments inside the car. The RedSuns team name appears at three o’clock beside the Seiko logo, while the Initial D symbol is placed inside the lower subdial. The yellow dial, red instrument-style subdials and RedSuns logo refer to Keisuke’s RX-7. Image: PREMICO. One of the best details sits at 12 o’clock. Instead of a normal hour marker, Seiko uses a t...

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CASIO A100WE: A Retro Digital Watch Under $100 WatchRider
Casio A100WE Aug 10, 2026

CASIO A100WE: A Retro Digital Watch Under $100

If you are looking for a digital watch that combines vintage aesthetics with everyday practicality, the Casio A100WE series is one of the most interesting options on the market. Released as a modern tribute to a very specific piece of Casio history, the A100 line stands out because of its unique front-button layout and retro-futuristic case design. Whether you are a seasoned watch collector or someone who simply wants a reliable timepiece, the A100WE series offers variety, comfort, and affordability. In this comprehensive guide, we will break down the history of this design, review every color and model available, highlight the standout green resin model, and explain all the technical features you need to know. The History Behind the Design: The F-100 Legacy To understand the Casio A100WE, you have to look back to 1978. That year, Casio released the F-100. It was a notable release because it was the first Casio watch to feature a case made entirely of resin, making it incredibly lightweight and affordable. However, the F-100 is best remembered today for its appearance in pop culture. A modified version of the Casio F-100 was worn by the character Ellen Ripley (played by Sigourney Weaver) in the 1979 science fiction movie Alien. The F-100 was eventually discontinued, making original models rare and highly sought after by collectors. Decades later, Casio introduced the A100WE series. This modern reissue keeps the exact case shape and front-button layout of the original F-100...

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We needed The Orange! TAG Heuer Formula 1 Solargraph Limited Edition for Zandvoort’s Finale WatchRider
TAG Heuer Formula 1 Solargraph Limited Aug 10, 2026

We needed The Orange! TAG Heuer Formula 1 Solargraph Limited Edition for Zandvoort’s Finale

TAG Heuer is sending the Dutch Grand Prix off with a pair of bright orange Formula 1 Solargraph limited editions. The rubber-strap reference WBY111H.FT8128 and steel-bracelet reference WBY111L.BA0042 share the same compact case, solar movement and colour scheme, but they offer two very different ways to remember Zandvoort. The timing is important. The 2026 Dutch Grand Prix will be the last Formula 1 race at Circuit Zandvoort under the current agreement. TAG Heuer has therefore created a farewell watch that looks straight into the orange grandstands rather than simply placing a race logo on an existing model. The last Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort The Dutch Grand Prix returned in 2021 after being absent from the calendar since 1985. The narrow circuit between the dunes quickly became one of the most recognisable weekends on the calendar, helped by steeply banked corners and grandstands filled with Dutch fans wearing orange. The final race weekend runs from 21 to 23 August 2026. It will also include the first Formula 1 Sprint held at Zandvoort. Tickets for the weekend are already sold out, which says plenty about the event even as it prepares to leave the calendar. TAG Heuer returned as Formula 1’s official timekeeper in 2025. A special watch for the last Zandvoort race therefore makes sense, especially when the Formula 1 collection already has a long history of bold colours and racing references. The new orange Solargraph follows a colourful Formula 1 design story that be...

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The New Casio Pro Trek PRJ-B001EX-1 Hides a Pocket in Its Strap WatchRider
Casio Pro Trek PRJ-B001EX-1 Hides Aug 8, 2026

The New Casio Pro Trek PRJ-B001EX-1 Hides a Pocket in Its Strap

Casio is preparing a new Pro Trek that approaches outdoor usefulness from a different direction. The PRJ-B001EX-1 does not add a compass, altimeter or barometer. Instead, it takes the familiar PRJ-B001 Hiker Line watch and gives it a reversible cloth band with its own storage pocket. Planned for release in August 2026, the watch is a special version of Casio’s compact analogue-digital outdoor model. Casio says the design was created after studying how campers carry small essentials. The Casio Pro Trek PRJ-B001EX-1 combines the analogue-digital Hiker Line watch with a wide reversible cloth band. A strap with a useful secret The wide fabric band includes a small zipped pocket beside the watch. It is intended for coins, a parking ticket or another tiny item that would otherwise disappear into a backpack. It will not replace a wallet, but it gives the wearer quick access to something small without opening a bag. This also gives the PRJ-B001EX-1 an EDC (Everyday Carry) angle, since the pocket can hold a coin, folded banknote or another small essential. The entire band can also be reversed and folded around the watch. In this position it covers the case and mineral crystal, creating a compact pouch that protects the watch while it is not being worn. A carabiner can be attached to the strap so the PRJ-B001EX-1 can hang from a backpack, belt loop or the inside of a tent. A zipped pocket beside the watch can hold coins, a parking ticket or another small item. On the wrist it work...

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Magical Timekeeping: Why the Harry Potter x Timex Weekender Collection is the Ultimate Fan Gift WatchRider
Timex Weekender Collection Aug 7, 2026

Magical Timekeeping: Why the Harry Potter x Timex Weekender Collection is the Ultimate Fan Gift

Finding the perfect gift for a Potterhead can be as tricky as catching the Golden Snitch. But if you are looking for something that seamlessly blends everyday practicality with a genuine touch of magic, the Harry Potter x Timex Weekender collection hits the mark perfectly. Timex took their beloved, utilitarian Weekender silhouette and injected it with just the right amount of Hogwarts charm. Far from feeling like cheap merchandise, these are solid, reliable timepieces with a delightful horological trick up their sleeve: spinning second-hand discs. Let’s break down three standout models from the collection—the TW2Y77000, TW2Y76100, and TW2Y76200—and see why they deserve a spot on any fan’s wrist. The Magic is in the Seconds What makes this specific lineup so endearing is the creative use of the sweeping second hand. Instead of a traditional ticking hand, Timex replaced it with a transparent rotating disc featuring an iconic Harry Potter element. As the seconds tick by, the icon playfully floats around the dial, making the watch feel alive and animated. Here is a closer look at the three must-have models: The Sorting Hat (Ref. TW2Y77000) If you can’t decide which House you belong to, let your watch do the talking. The TW2Y77000 embraces a rustic, academic aesthetic fitting for Hogwarts. The Vibe: Dark academia. It features a bronze-tone stainless steel case and a rich, earthy brown dial.    The Dial Details: The background features subtle line art of Hogwar...

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The Lightweight Casio F-91WF Watch on Cloth-Strap WatchRider
Casio F-91WF Watch Aug 7, 2026

The Lightweight Casio F-91WF Watch on Cloth-Strap

The Casio F-91W does not need a complicated introduction. It is one of the simplest digital watches you can buy and one of the easiest to recognise. The new F-91WF collection keeps that familiar formula but changes the part that has the greatest effect on comfort and character: the strap. Instead of the usual resin band, each watch comes with a lightweight cloth strap made from recycled PET. There are three models in the collection. The F-91WF-1A is black, the F-91WF-2A is navy blue and the F-91WF-3A is olive green. The case colour is matched to the strap on each version, so none of them looks like an ordinary F-91W with a random replacement strap. They feel like a complete collection with three clear personalities. Why the F-91WF is more than a strap change The cloth strap is the main news but it is not only a visual detail. Casio describes it as lightweight, comfortable, resistant to scratches and resistant to stains. It should also feel less rigid than a resin strap, especially during hot weather or when the watch is worn for a full day. Its recycled PET material gives the range a practical environmental benefit without changing the affordable and uncomplicated nature of the F-91W. The strap fits wrists from 145 to 215mm. That broad range matters because the case itself is very compact. It measures 38.2mm from top to bottom, 35.2mm across and only 8.5mm thick. Each version weighs just 21 grams. On the wrist it should almost disappear, which remains one of the strongest ...

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Timex 1976 Lexington Reissue Inspired Is a Sharp $149 Steel Cartier Tank Alternative WatchRider
Cartier Tank Alternative Timex has Aug 6, 2026

Timex 1976 Lexington Reissue Inspired Is a Sharp $149 Steel Cartier Tank Alternative

Timex has taken the 1976 Lexington Reissue Inspired in the direction I wanted most: away from gold tone and into polished steel. The new TW2Y88200 keeps the compact rectangular shape, vertically brushed silver dial and Roman numerals of the earlier model, then adds metallic blue hands for a little contrast. It is currently listed as a $149 pre-order in the United States, which puts it firmly in the part of the market where a good design matters more than a prestigious logo. A rectangular watch with the right instincts I am a fan of rectangular watches because they make even a simple time-only watch feel considered. A round case can hide lazy proportions. A rectangle cannot. Every line is visible: the width, the length, the dial margins, the shape of the numerals and the relationship between case and strap. That is why the Cartier Tank remains such a powerful reference point, and why an affordable watch needs more than Roman numerals to feel convincing. Timex’s silver dial, blue hands and Roman numerals look clean. This Timex is not trying to be a counterfeit Tank. It earns its place as a nice alternative because it uses the same broad language of a slim rectangular case, an orderly dial and a leather strap, then keeps a personality of its own. If you enjoy this corner of watch design, I have also ranked the Cartier Tank alternatives that have stayed in my collection. The Lexington belongs in that conversation because it offers a clean steel option at a price that makes o...

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Seiko’s Edo Purple Collection Adds a Speedtimer to the Astron, Alpinist, Presage and Seiko 5 Sports WatchRider
Seiko s Edo Purple Collection Aug 6, 2026

Seiko’s Edo Purple Collection Adds a Speedtimer to the Astron, Alpinist, Presage and Seiko 5 Sports

Seiko’s 145th-anniversary Edo Purple collection is not one watch in a new colour. It is five very different watches using the same dark violet palette and gold-coloured details: the Astron HAB011, Alpinist HBC006, Speedtimer HBJ005, Presage HCB006 and Seiko 5 Sports HDB003. All are limited editions scheduled for October 2026. Edo purple, five ways Edo purple is a traditional Japanese colour associated with historic Tokyo, once called Edo. Here, Seiko uses it with more restraint than the name “purple anniversary” might suggest. Dials shift between violet and near-black, while the gold-coloured accents give every model some warmth without making them look like birthday decorations. Astron HAB011: the technical flagship The HAB011J1 is the high-tech member of the Edo Purple collection. Image: Seiko. The HAB011 is the outlier because its 5X83 GPS Solar calibre receives time and time-zone information from satellites. It combines dual time, a 1/20-second chronograph, a perpetual calendar and 38-city world time in a 43.3mm titanium case. The ceramic-and-titanium bezel and dual-curved sapphire crystal help it look properly finished rather than merely busy. It is limited to 2,000 pieces worldwide. Seiko has confirmed Japanese pricing, but no U.S. price yet. The graduated purple dial and ceramic centre bracelet links set the Astron apart. Image: Seiko. Alpinist HBC006: compact and capable The HBC006J brings Edo Purple to the Alpinist’s compact case and leather strap. Image: ...

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Luxury Look, Accessible Price: Why the Fossil Harwell is the Perfect Ralph Lauren Stirrup Alternative WatchRider
Fossil Aug 5, 2026

Luxury Look, Accessible Price: Why the Fossil Harwell is the Perfect Ralph Lauren Stirrup Alternative

A few years ago, my friends gifted me the Fossil Harwell ES5267. From the moment I opened the box, I was absolutely captivated. I have always loved the color green, especially when paired with gold, and this watch executes that combination flawlessly. But beyond its stunning colorway, it stands out for another reason: it is arguably the best affordable alternative to the luxurious Ralph Lauren Stirrup Small. If you love the quiet luxury and equestrian heritage of the Ralph Lauren Stirrup but can’t justify the designer price tag, the Fossil Harwell captures the exact vibe.  The Appeal of the Stirrup Shape The stirrup case design immediately draws the eye. Instead of traditional lugs, the strap typically passes through the upper loop of the case, integrating the watch seamlessly onto the wrist. It’s a silhouette that feels both vintage and contemporary, perfect for adding a touch of tailored elegance to any outfit. It is a bold, instantly recognizable case shape that acts as a piece of statement jewelry just as much as a timekeeper.  The Inspiration: Ralph Lauren Stirrup Small To understand the appeal of the Fossil Harwell, we first have to look at the titan that inspired this aesthetic: the Ralph Lauren Stirrup collection. Introduced at SIHH in Geneva in 2009, the Stirrup collection perfectly captures Ralph Lauren’s deep equestrian heritage. The Stirrup Small features an iconic stirrup-shaped silhouette, measuring 27.7 x 29.3 mm, and often houses high-end Swiss mov...

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Kanoa Igarashi’s Fourth G-Shock G-LIDE Is Ready for Surf and Training WatchRider
Casio has released Aug 5, 2026

Kanoa Igarashi’s Fourth G-Shock G-LIDE Is Ready for Surf and Training

Most surf watches stop after telling you when the tide is coming in. The new G-Shock G-LIDE GBX-H5600KI-5 also checks your heart, studies your sleep and expects you to catch the next wave. Casio has released its fourth signature watch with Japanese professional surfer Kanoa Igarashi. The GBX-H5600KI-5 is based on the heart-rate-equipped G-LIDE GBX-H5600, but its brown marbled body and soft purple details give it a look that is easy to separate from the standard models. A colour scheme inspired by Portugal The mixed brown colour is inspired by the cliffs and rocky coast around Ericeira, Portugal, one of Igarashi’s training bases. Casio mixes different colours of bio-based resin during production, so the streaks and marks will not be identical on every watch. That gives each example a slightly different surface pattern without pretending that the watch is hand-finished. The lavender details are a smart contrast to the dark case. A purple vapor-deposited finish around the display is meant to recall the sea during the early morning and evening magic hours. Igarashi’s signature sits below the screen and also appears on the back. His World Surf League competition number, 50, is printed on the lower part of the band. Built for the water, but useful away from it The case measures 51.1mm long, 44.5mm wide and 17.3mm thick. That is a large watch on paper, although 47 grams is impressively light for a G-Shock with an optical heart-rate sensor. The carbon-fibre-reinforced resin ba...

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Seiko Gives the Honda Motocompo Its Own 5 Sports Limited Edition - HDB010 WatchRider
Seiko Gives Aug 4, 2026

Seiko Gives the Honda Motocompo Its Own 5 Sports Limited Edition - HDB010

Seiko has turned one of Honda’s strangest ideas into a watch. The new Seiko 5 Sports Honda Motocompo Limited Edition HDB010 takes the colours and small details of the folding 1980s scooter then places them inside a compact automatic field watch. This is more than a yellow dial with two famous logos. The crown copies a label from the scooter’s fuel control, the strap borrows its loading instructions and the box looks like the carton used to ship the Motocompo. Even the caseback has been turned into a bright red display for the 4R36 movement. A 45-year-old scooter becomes a watch Honda introduced the Motocompo in 1981 alongside the first Honda City. It was a 49cc two-stroke motorcycle created to fit inside the City’s luggage area. The handlebars and footrests folded into its rectangular body, while special systems helped prevent fuel, oil or battery fluid from leaking inside the car. Honda described the idea as a new six-wheel lifestyle, combining a small car with a motorcycle that could be carried in its trunk. The scooter weighed 42kg dry, produced 2.5 horsepower and measured only 1.185 metres long. Its small wheels and box-like panels made it instantly recognisable. Production lasted from 1981 until 1983, yet the Motocompo continued to gain fans long after it disappeared from showrooms. The HDB010 arrives for its 45th anniversary and uses the yellow version of the scooter as its main source of inspiration. A compact Field Series case in Motocompo colours The HDB010 ...

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Casio Launches Master in Horizon Gold G-Shock Trio WatchRider
Casio Launches Master Aug 4, 2026

Casio Launches Master in Horizon Gold G-Shock Trio

Casio has officially introduced Master in Horizon Gold, a three-watch G-Shock collection that gives the Gravitymaster, Mudmaster and Mudman the same brown and light-gold finish. The models are the GR-B300H-5A, GG-B100XMH-5A and GW-9500MH-5. They look related, but their functions are very different. One is made for flying, one for connected outdoor tracking and one for solar-powered navigation without a phone. One Colour Scheme, Three Different G-Shocks The collection takes its name from the line where the earth appears to meet the sky. Dark brown bio-based resin bands and cases are combined with light yellow-gold ion-plated bezels. Smaller metal parts use brown ion plating and the warm colour scheme looks unusual without hiding the tough Master of G character. Every model is shock resistant and rated to 200 metres. Mudmaster GG-B100XMH-5A The GG-B100XMH-5A measures 55.4 x 51.3 x 19.4 mm and weighs 104 g. Its bio-based carbon case uses the Carbon Core Guard structure, while a stainless-steel bezel and reinforced case back add protection. Mud resistance, mineral glass and a two-year CR2025 battery make it the only non-solar model in the trio. The GG-B100XMH-5A is the connected Mudmaster in the collection. Image: Casio. It combines a compass, altimeter, barometer and thermometer with a step counter. Bluetooth links it to the Casio Watches app for automatic time correction, around 300 world-time cities, Mission Log, Location Memory and phone finder. Other tools include sunrise...

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Casio F-B100W Brings Bluetooth and Step Tracking to the F-91W Formula WatchRider
Casio F-B100W Brings Bluetooth Aug 4, 2026

Casio F-B100W Brings Bluetooth and Step Tracking to the F-91W Formula

Casio has listed the F-B100W, a three-watch family that adds Bluetooth and step tracking to its uncomplicated digital formula. Japanese retailers opened preorders at ¥8,800 including tax, with release scheduled for August 2026. Prices for Europe, the UK and the US remain unannounced; the passport stamps are still pending. The official campaign image makes the pitch clear: familiar Casio digital design, now with Smartphone Link, step tracking and an amber LED backlight. That is the whole idea in one image: a familiar rectangular Casio that can correct its time through a phone and count your steps. The F-B100W-1AJF makes the clearest introduction, with a black resin case, positive LCD and blue, red and gold labels. The small step indicator above the time is the clue that this is not simply another colour of an old watch. F-B100W-1A: black resin, positive display and familiar blue-and-red Casio accents. The F-91W connection is official Casio says the front and strap design inherit the look of the F-91W, introduced in 1989. The new case measures 41.9 × 38.1 × 8.8mm and weighs 26g. An F-91W is 38.2 × 35.2 × 8.5mm and 21g, so the newcomer is larger, but only just. At 8.8mm thick, the F-B100W keeps the old-school digital silhouette pleasingly slim. On my 6.5-inch wrist, the dimensions suggest an easy, compact fit, although I have not handled one yet. The resin case, resin glass and 145–215mm strap range keep the specification familiar. The main resin parts of the band use ...

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10.5 Best Watches Under $100,000 That I Would Not Buy WatchRider
Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch Aug 4, 2026

10.5 Best Watches Under $100,000 That I Would Not Buy

If you search for watch recommendations in 2026, you will inevitably run into a very annoying trend: watch influencers making “best watches under $1,000” lists of affordable watches that they have never even touched. They show stock photos or videos, they clearly do not own them and they have absolutely no intention of buying them, especially when their own personal collections are full of expensive pieces. At one point recently, I watched a video where an influencer actually recommended an affordable watch in a list and then immediately admitted that she/he didn’t even like it. I mean, seriously? My approach is going to be the exact opposite and I think a lot more realistic. Instead of pretending to love budget watches I do not own or like, I am going to look at the “best” expensive luxury watches and not necessarily hyped watches, but watches under $100,000 that I do not have the money to buy. But here is the catch: even if I had the cash sitting in my bank account tomorrow, I still would not buy them, just to follow the dumb trend! 1. Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch The Moonwatch is a legend. It went to the moon. It has the best history of any chronograph, period. The latest Master Chronometer update is brilliant. In fact, if there is one watch on this entire list that I truly recommend, it is this one. Part of its charm is that because of the unique subdial layout and movement architecture, there are no good fakes that can accurately reproduce the pr...

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Casio Oceanus Retro Tone Collection Adds Two Japan-Only Titanium Watches WatchRider
Casio Oceanus Retro Tone Collection Aug 2, 2026

Casio Oceanus Retro Tone Collection Adds Two Japan-Only Titanium Watches

Casio has expanded its Oceanus Retro Tone Collection with two Japan-only limited editions for August 2026: the Manta S400 OCW-S400RL-8AJR and Classic Line OCW-T2600RL-3AJR. Both use lightweight titanium cases, solar power, radio-controlled timekeeping and Tochigi leather straps. The idea is simple: modern Casio technology presented with warmer colours and a more traditional character. The Casio Oceanus Retro Tone Collection pairs the green T2600 with the grey Manta S400. Image: Casio. A Softer Retro Tone Look Both watches use half-matte gradient dials that change gently from the centre to the outer edge. Casio creates the effect through a silver layer, colour coating and printed gradient pattern while keeping the dial transparent enough for solar charging. Straight hands and solid bar markers keep the displays clean. The vegetable-tanned cowhide straps come from Tochigi Leather, a Japanese maker founded in 1937 and should soften and develop a darker colour with use. The Lighter Manta S400 Casio Oceanus Manta S400 OCW-S400RL-8AJR with its grey gradient dial and rose-gold-coloured sapphire bezel. Image: Casio. The OCW-S400RL-8AJR is the smaller and more expensive model. Its titanium case measures 46.5 mm long, 41.3 mm wide and only 9.2 mm thick. Without a bracelet, the watch weighs just 38 grams. A frosted sapphire bezel ring carries world-time city codes and receives rose-gold ion plating. The dial is grey, giving the warm bezel and brown leather strap plenty of room to sta...

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Casio Adds Dark Blue and Grey to Its Bluetooth ABL-100 Vintage Line WatchRider
Casio Adds Dark Blue Aug 2, 2026

Casio Adds Dark Blue and Grey to Its Bluetooth ABL-100 Vintage Line

Casio has officially added two fresh colours to its connected ABL-100 Vintage line. The ABL-100WE-2A arrives with a dark-blue dial surround, while the ABL-100WE-7A takes the quieter route in grey. Casio’s European pages label the pair as August 2026 releases, and both are already available through the brand’s Spanish online shop. The important point is that the colours are new; the watch and its technology are familiar. New Colours, Familiar Hardware The dark-blue ABL-100WE-2A brings a little more contrast around the positive LCD display, but it remains restrained rather than loud. The grey ABL-100WE-7A blends more closely with the silver-tone case and bracelet. Neither version is trying to reinvent Casio’s rectangular digital formula. They simply make the connected ABL-100 easier to match with different clothes, which is often all a good colour update needs to do. The ABL-100WE-2A introduces a dark-blue dial surround. Image: Casio. The chrome-plated resin case measures 41.6 mm long, 37.9 mm wide and only 8.2 mm thick. Weight is 60 grams, including the stainless-steel multi-row bracelet and adjustable clasp. A resin crystal covers the display. Those compact proportions should sit easily on my 6.5-inch wrist, although I have not handled either watch. Casio describes the model simply as water resistant, without advertising a swimming depth, so this is one retro accessory I would not volunteer for pool duty. A Step Counter Wearing Vintage Clothes An accelerometer record...

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Timex Deepwater Meridian 200 Automatic GMT Takes On Seiko’s 5 Sports GMT WatchRider
Seiko s 5 Sports GMT Aug 2, 2026

Timex Deepwater Meridian 200 Automatic GMT Takes On Seiko’s 5 Sports GMT

Timex has given the Deepwater Meridian 200 a new job. The 42mm diver-style watch is now an automatic GMT, with a fourth hand and a bidirectional 24-hour ceramic bezel instead of a conventional elapsed-time scale. The colour references are black TW2Y63900, blue TW2Y64000 and green TW2Y64100. Black is the most restrained choice, blue has a cooler nautical character, and green brings the most personality without turning the watch into a novelty. Each version pairs its dial with a coordinating bezel, so the colour feels deliberate rather than decorative. Announced on 31 July 2026, this is genuinely new rather than a model that has quietly lived on retailers’ shelves for months. The personality is familiar, but the specification changes are enough to make this more than a new colourway. Black TW2Y63900. Image: Timex. Blue TW2Y64000. Image: Timex. Green TW2Y64100. Image: Timex. A diver for someone who avoids deep water I am afraid of deep water but rather fond of diver-style watches, which is a little like loving hiking while avoiding cliffs. I like their neat engineering, their tough appearance, and the fact that I can admire a 200-metre rating without personally testing it anywhere below the shallow end. Timex specifies 200 metres of water resistance, a screw-down crown, screw-on case back and a sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating. The black dial has luminous hands and markers, a magnified date, and a red GMT hand. The steel case is 42mm across, 14.5mm thick and 48...

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Casio Edifice EFB-730: The Best Affordable Panda Chronograph? Owner Review WatchRider
Zenith El Primero A384 Introduced Aug 1, 2026

Casio Edifice EFB-730: The Best Affordable Panda Chronograph? Owner Review

In my opinion, panda watches are probably the most beautiful and classic watch designs ever made, which explains why I own around ten of them. In this article, we are looking at two models from Casio that I own: the Edifice EFB-730D-7AV on a stainless steel bracelet, that has a clean silver dial with black subdials, and the Edifice EFB-730L-7AV on a brown leather strap, but with a more vintage off-white dial and orange accents. And to make this even more interesting I will compare them with my Tudor Black Bay Chrono Panda M79360N-0002. In the following sections, I will cover what I like, what I do not like, or rather what I would like to see in future versions, whether these watches feel premium, and two questions you probably have in mind: why I own both and whether I am going to sell them. Panda Design, Case Size and Comfort The panda dial is clearly the main attraction, but what makes these Casio models stand out from the many affordable panda chronographs is the shape of the case. Instead of using the familiar round design seen on watches such as the Tudor Black Bay Chrono, the EFB-730 has a tonneau shape that immediately reminded me of the legendary Zenith El Primero A384. Introduced in 1969, the A384 combined a distinctive tonneau-shaped case (often referred to as a barrel shape) with a white dial, three black chronograph counters and a date window positioned between four and five o’clock. The modern A384 Revival faithfully recreates that design with a 37 mm tonnea...

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Baltic Adds a Date to the Aquascaphe MK2 Without Making It Thicker WatchRider
Baltic Adds Jul 31, 2026

Baltic Adds a Date to the Aquascaphe MK2 Without Making It Thicker

The Baltic Aquascaphe MK2 is getting its first date display. This is not a replacement for the clean no-date model and it is not a limited edition. Instead, Baltic has added “Date” as a new choice across the existing MK2 range, giving buyers a useful complication without changing the case size or thickness. That distinction matters because the Aquascaphe MK2 itself is not new. Baltic introduced the second-generation model in September 2025. The news at the end of July 2026 is that customers can now order it with a date window, with deliveries scheduled for the end of August. The date is available with all four current dial colours and both case sizes. The blue and green versions have glossy dials, while the grey and warm silver models use a more textured, grained finish. Baltic does not list separate traditional reference numbers for every combination; diameter, date and strap are selected when configuring the watch. A date window that respects the dial Adding a date to a carefully balanced dive-watch dial can easily create a mess. Baltic has taken the safer route by placing the window at six o’clock, directly above the 30-minute bezel marker. The frame is finely bevelled and the date disc is matched to the dial colour, so the display looks like part of the design rather than a white rectangle added at the last moment. The placement also preserves the vertical balance created by the applied Arabic 12. It replaces the round six o’clock marker, but it does not push t...

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Mido Multifort 8 One Crown Goes Fully Black in PVD WatchRider
Mido Multifort 8 One Crown Jul 31, 2026

Mido Multifort 8 One Crown Goes Fully Black in PVD

Mido has added a full-black version to the Multifort 8 One Crown range for summer 2026. Reference M055.507.37.051.00 takes the angular case and simple three-hand layout of the existing model and gives almost every exterior part a black finish. The result is much darker than the steel versions, but the polished hands, raised hour markers and white date display keep it easy to read. This is not just a new dial colour. Mido has applied black PVD to the 316L stainless-steel case, bezel, crown and pin buckle, then paired the watch with a fitted black rubber strap. It changes the character of the Multifort 8 One Crown without changing the practical dimensions or the Caliber 80 automatic movement that made the original model interesting. The black PVD coating still allows the brushed and polished case surfaces to stand apart. From two crowns to one The Multifort name dates back to 1934, when Mido used it for a watch designed around automatic winding, water resistance, resistance to magnetism and protection against shocks. The current Multifort 8 family carries that practical idea into a much more modern shape. The first Multifort 8 design used two crowns, including one to operate an internal rotating bezel. The One Crown removes that extra control and the internal timing scale. That gives the dial more room, reduces visual clutter and makes the case slimmer. It also turns the watch into a straightforward hours-minutes-seconds model with a date window, which will make more sense f...

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