We don’t do many previews here at The Watch Clicker, but wanted to alert you to a watch we’ll be reviewing soon, as the initial pre-order is about to end. While it will be followed by a Kickstarter campaign in June, the pre-order through the website will offer the lowest pricing. The watch in question is the Neucarl Sept Mai (that’s “May 7th,” for the non-Francophiles). It’s an intriguingly retro watch, with modern industrial flair.
At a glance, the watch offers a unique nested case with a high-polish finish. The midcase appears as if it’s floating in the cradle of the lugs, something I’ve not seen before. The shape of the lugs means this watch will likely sit flat on the wrist, but the modest lug-to-lug means that won’t be a huge issue. Plus at 10mm, you’ll barely notice it.
The dial is layered, with brushed stainless steel providing contrast to the polished case. The steel portion has a large central ring cut out, through which shines a fully-lumed bottom layer. This isn’t practical lume, but it sure does look pretty. There’s been a keen desing eye applied to this watch, and perhaps no clearer is that than in the careful integration of the date window, whose aperture matches the angle created by the minute hashes.
The watch makes use of Sellita’s SW215 caliber, a handwinding mechanism that fits not only with the retro aesthetic, but also the dressier vibe of the watch. Because make no mistake, there is nothing “tool” about this watch. This is a dress watch, an evening watch.
I’m quite excited to give this watch a try, as I feel there is a woeful dearth of engaging microbrand dress watches. As mentioned at the top, the watch is available now for pre-order, for just €399 (or around $430 at the time of this writing). The pre-order ends this Sunday, May 17, at 5:00 PM ET, and will be a numbered edition of 100 pieces, engraved on the back. While there’s no set price for the June Kickstarter, retail pricing will be €799.
You can expect our full review in late June or early July.
You can pre-order here
Case Width | 41mm | Thickness | 10mm |
Lug-to-lug Height | 46mm | Lug Width | 20mm |
Crystal | Double Domed Sapphire | Strap | Leather Strap |
Water Resistance | 50 meters | Lume | Super-LumiNova® BGW9 |
Movement | Sellita SW215 | Price | $864 |