This review was done by 3T Member, Bandityo (not to be confused with Bandido:D):
Boschett Reef Ranger
I have had the fortunate experience to own and experience the new Reef Ranger from Boschett Watches (http://www.boschett-timepieces.com). This watch was designed and inspired by the owner of the company, Keith Boschetti. Keith took his knowledge, and the input from other watch enthusiasts, to combine and produce his first production, all Swiss watch - the Reef Ranger.
Keith wanted an affordable dive watch, but with features usually only found in the high end brands. After experiencing this watch, I have to say he succeeded.
Presentation
Keith has said that he was tired of plain ole watch boxes. You know, the kind that are pretty to look at, but then they go in our cabinet or garage, if we even save them at all. So what he did was to come up with a way to ship the watches to new customers and include functionality as well. So what did he come up with? A watch travelling case with two sides and a divider....that way you can carry the watch with you on trips and another one of your favorites with it. All in comfort and total protection... folks you dont set this "box" on your shelf...they are 100% functional for use.
Not only do you get the fine leather carrying case, but he also includes two screwdrivers for you to adjust your own band (no more trips to the local watchmaker or mall) along with the instruction manual and warranty card.
Construction
So what are you getting for your purchase? First, only the finest materials were used to construct this puppy. He uses 316L stainless steel throughout the watch. The face is a nice and trendy 42mm across...2mm larger than a lot of other popular divers out there. This is the trend in modern watches...bigger is better. And I know when Im diving, I like the larger dial to help me acquire the time quickly.
He didn't compromise on the other parts of the watch either. How about a Sapphire crystal and 300m/1000ft depth resistance. This puts it into a real diving watch category capable of more than snorkeling or swimming..you can actually use this watch for real sport diving with no worries. The buttery smooth screw down crown with gasket, uni-directional bezel with sure grips make it a pleasure to use.
Bracelet
Ok...when you get a nice watch, the last thing you want is a flimsy bracelet. Boschett addressed this with a full, brushed, stainless steel bracelet that starts at 22mm between the lugs. The links are all solid steel..not some sandwich pressed hollow links..these are solid links on every link of the watch. As mentioned earlier, it has real screws, not push pins for adjustment as well as a fine adjustment also for the perfect fit. The flip lock clasp has side pushers instead of friction, which I really like and makes me feel secure. All these features make the bracelet and whole watch feel very substantial and confident.
Case Construction
The Reef Ranger features an engraved back cover, screw down of course, polished sides to the case and a beautiful combination of a brushed bezel and brushed bracelet. These contrasting finishes make the watch "pop" to the eye, yet the brushed finishes keep you from suffering from too many scratches for all you desk divers. Brushed bracelets can easily be touched up at home, so this is a great feature allowing you to wear the watch worry free, yet be very beautiful. As seen in the following shots...quality is apparent.
Movement
This is an area where the Reef Ranger again steps up to the plate and hits a home run. The watch features the automatic Swiss ETA 2824-2 movement. This beautiful movement attaches itself to some very nice hands which are filled with Blue Superluminova and applied markers. Most brands out there glow green...but the Reef Ranger stands out by having the blue...quite gorgeous.
Conclusion
Well, I have laid out the quality of this watch. I have worn it now for about a month and its been a pleasure. I have quite a few watches, and this one goes on my top level in my watch display case, next to my Omega, Breitlings and Fortis. The confidence this watch ensues is fantastic. Knowing you have great construction from the bracelet to the case and then to the sapphire crystal, I really am worry free with this watch and know that it will be with my family for many generations.
Now, Im going to go sit on my porch wearing my Reef Ranger and enjoy the finer things in life.
David
|
