Venezianico Arsenale BronzovsLorier Merlin

The Venezianico Arsenale is widely praised for its exceptional wearability and finishing for its price, featuring a thin 8.95mm case and a dynamic Côtes de Genève dial. Owners appreciate the minimalist dial, distinctive design language, and comfortable wearing experience, with one noting the blue sunburst dial and supple blue rubber strap are mesmerizing. The movement is described as a hacking and hand-winding Miyota. However, strap changes are difficult, and the watch lacks lume. Some owners find the purple dial too decisive, and others wish for a smaller diameter option. Opinions on bronze as a dress watch material are mixed due to patina concerns, though it is noted as easily cleaned. Legibility could be improved, and some question the material choice for a dress watch. On balance, owners and reviewers rate the Venezianico Arsenale highly for its impressive case finishing and wearability at its price point.

Owners widely praise the Lorier Merlin for its vintage-inspired 37mm case, heat-blued hands, raised numerals, and hesalite crystal. The watch is noted for its comfortable wear, with some finding it wears large despite its size and even thinner on a two-piece strap. Drilled lug holes and a locking bezel are also appreciated features. Accuracy varies, with one owner reporting +8 seconds per day, while others do not specify. Some owners find the dual-crown design unappealing or the case chunky, with the 37mm size feeling small for a dive bezel watch, though others find it perfect for smaller wrists. The supplied strap and its hardware are considered cheap by one owner, and the bezel action is described as light and hollow. A desire for a sapphire crystal option at the price point is mentioned by some, while others prefer the hesalite for its vintage look. On balance, owners and the community rate the Lorier Merlin highly for its authentic vintage aesthetic and comfortable wear.