Bronze replica watches. Are they a phenomenon, a fad, or a craze? Well, I do not think they are a phenomenon; after all, it is just another metal being used to make replica watch cases. As far as a fad or a craze, well, bronze replica watches have been popular in the replica watch scene for the past 4 years or so, and it does not seem like it is slowing down. From Panerai to micro brands, everyone is trying their hand at bronze.
That brings us to Magrette Watches and the Vantage Bronze, their first bronze cased replica watch…kind of. Back in about 2011 or so, Magrette tried their hand at doing bronze, as other brands were. What they actually delivered, was brass. In fairness, it was not their fault. They trusted their supplier who said one thing, and gave them another, and they took their word for it. Fortunately this time around, Magrette was not taking any chances, and had the bronze tested before even attempting to make the cases. This time around they are assured it is CUSN8 bronze.
What makes bronze so popular? Well, most love the darker or warmer gold tone it has, and the fact that with wearing it, overtime, it will develop a “patina” or oxidation. Being honest, I am not the biggest bronze replica watch fan. I am in the camp of I love how it looks on others, but not on me. Its like when you see those cool sneakers on a teenager and think boy those are cool, until you try them on for yourself.
That is not to say I do not appreciate bronze for what it is. It is definitely a different look, and if you let the patina develop naturally (some try to speed up the process with chemicals), it can have that nice vintage look about it.
The Magrette Vantage Bronze comes in two dial choices, black or brown, and has a sandwich dial, rosegold hands, a domed sapphire crystal and a display caseback with a pvd outer ring. All done in a 44mm cushion case that is almost synonymous with Magrette at this point. (Yes, I know, they are FAR from the first company to do a cushion case). This all comes packaged in Magrette’s beautiful travel case, which can hold 2 replica watches, or 1 replica watch and a few straps and tools. The current pricing is $685 with $35 shipping from New Zealand.
Please take a look at my video presentation below:
Magrette Vantage Bronze Full Specifications:
- CASE DIAMETER: 44MM X 53.5MM EXCLUDING THE CROWN
- WEIGHT: 130 GRAMS
- CASE: CUSN8 BRONZE ALLOY WITH BRUSH FINISH.
- CASE BACK: SEE-THROUGH (SAPPHIRE) CASE BACK, DLC WITH ANTI FINGERPRINT COATING.
- CROWN: SCREW DOWN CROWN (POLISHED STAINLESS STEEL).
- CRYSTAL: SAPPHIRE (DOUBLE DOMED), AR COATING.
- WATER-RESISTANCE: 500M RESISTANCE WITH AUTOMATIC HEV.
- STRAP: LEATHER CALF STRAP, REMBORDE EDGE, LORICA LINING WITH BRONZE BUCKLE
- MOVEMENT: MIYOTA 9015
- LIMITED EDITION: 500 PIECES INCLUDES BLACK DIAL AND BROWN.
- Price $685
As I spoke about already, the Vantage is done in Magrette’s classic cushion style case, in 44m, with 24mm lugs. The screw down crown is polished steel, to contrast with the brushed bronze case, and the case back is a combo of sapphire glass and a DLC coated steel outer ring, protecting the Miyota 9015 automatic movement, which has become a micro brand standard.
What makes a bronze replica watch more expensive than a stainless steel replica watch in the same configuration? Well, I am told it is harder to work with bronze, most importantly the brushing and polishing of it.
My favorite aspect? The sandwich dial. The slightly textured black dial stands out against the bronze case, and underneath is the lume dial peaks through the rectangle minute stencils only. The numbers are painted on top of the dial, but are coated with as much lume paint as the dial underneath. I also appreciate the use of drilled lugs, as it makes strap changes so much easier.
Speaking of straps, that brings me to my least favorite aspect, or one of them. The strap is just not up to par with some of Magrette’s past releases, at least not to me. It is on the thin side, and just does not match up to the quality of the replica watch. I Would have liked one of the Magrette molded rubber straps included, as they are a fantastic strap and very comfortable. My other gripe? The way the crown is positioned into the case. It screws down and functions well but is difficult to unscrew, especially if you have medium or large sized fingers.
One of the reasons for the stainless crown and dlc exhibition caseback is because while that patina looks nice, it can also leave you with green skin, depending on how acidic your body is. So many bronze replica watches have the parts that touch your skin most, in either steel or titanium.
Yes, there is a helium valve. Not sure why, as I would not really call this a dive replica watch. But it seems to be the thing to do these days, put an automatic helium release valve on the replica watch. Lets be honest, 99.9% of us will never need or use this feature, just like the 500 meters water resistance. But if you are part of that small percentage, you will be happy to know it should do what you need it to.
On the wrist, it sits well and is comfortable, as most 44mm cushion cases are on my 7-½ inch wrist. It could wear better though, if it had a nicer or thicker strap. I think this would look great on an Isofrane.
Lume buffs rejoice, because if you like in your face will not quit lume, you have found a good replica watch for it. I will let the pictures do the rest of the talking.
Magrette is one of my favorite brands. I love the styling, case finishing, and overall everything they produce. This is not my top pick, mostly because of the bronze itself, but I think it has a lot to offer in the bronze microbrand race. As usual Magrette offers a nice value, especially with that sandwich dial and domed sapphire crystal.
If you are a bronze fan, or want to try out your first one, I do not think you can go wrong with the Vantage Bronze. Thank you to Magrette for providing for review, you can check out all of their offerings HERE. Please leave your comments below.
