Vario 1918 Trench Brass Black Dial with Orange LumevsVertex MG36 DE

Ref. 1918-brass-trench-black-dial-with-orange-lume·MSRP $388
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Measurements
Catalog photos are all shot at the same flattering size. These aren't: every case below shares one millimeter scale.

1918 Trench Brass Black Dial with Orange Lume

MG36 DE
Diameter
37mm
36mm
Lug-to-Lug
45mm
lowest
46.5mm
Thickness
10mm
lowest
11mm
Water Resistance
100m
100m
Power Reserve
40h
n/a
MSRP
$388
lowest
$2,083
Movement
Miyota 82S5
Sellita SW260-1
Case
4 specsMovement
2 specsPricing
1 specsReviews
Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.
The Vario 1918 Trench Brass Black Dial with Orange Lume Watch is widely praised for its authentic WW1 aesthetic and highly legible dial, featuring large numbers and cathedral hands. Owners report it offers significant value and a cool look that garners compliments, with some noting the brass case develops a pleasing patina. The watch is also recognized for its robust build and surprisingly good water resistance. However, multiple owners and reviewers consistently flag the lume as very poor and weak, particularly on the orange numerals, limiting low-light visibility. The Vario 1918 Trench Brass Black Dial with Orange Lume Watch is considered a good value option for achieving a WW1-era timepiece look.
Owners widely praise the Vertex MG36 DE for its exceptional quality, bright lume blocks, and comfortable 36mm wearability, with many noting the excellent legibility and vintage feel enhanced by a box crystal and flatter crown. Reviewers highlight the detailed dial, elegant syringe hands, and the versatility of included strap options, particularly the adjustable bracelet. Some owners find the Sellita SW260-1 movement's price point a contention, while one reviewer expressed a personal preference for a manual-wind movement. On balance, owners and reviewers rate the Vertex MG36 DE highly for its superb quality and character, justifying its price.
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