CWC Mellor-72 Mechanical WatchvsFears Alliance 01 (Burgundy)

The CWC Mellor-72 Mechanical Watch is widely praised for its authentic, utilitarian design and satisfying hand-wound Sellita SW210 movement, with owners noting a smooth winding action and excellent accuracy, including one report of zero seconds deviation over 24 hours. Reviewers highlight the era-appropriate dial and functional "piece of kit" appeal, though some find the 35mm case small by modern standards and legibility can be impacted by the domed hesalite crystal. Owners report issues with fixed lug bars being poorly filled in and fogging inside the crystal, while others state no water resistance problems. Overall, owners and reviewers appreciate the CWC Mellor-72 Mechanical Watch for its genuine military heritage and functional charm, despite some practical drawbacks.

Owners widely praise the Fears Alliance 01 (Burgundy) for its rich burgundy dial, which is seen as versatile with other colors and gold tones, and its tasteful jumping hour complication. The 40.5mm cushion case is noted for its wearability and 100m water resistance, and the watch is appreciated for its special, limited UK collaboration story. Some owners consider the $4,000 price point for a Sellita movement with a 38-hour power reserve and 13mm thickness a downside, with general sentiment suggesting Fears watches can be overpriced and some finding the finishing rough for the cost. On balance, owners and reviewers appreciate the Fears Alliance 01 (Burgundy) for its unique jumping hour complication and British story, despite price and finishing concerns.