If you're looking for a diver's watch that will look great on your wrist, this is it! Edox "Neptunian Grande Reserve" Wear Review!

This is a wearable review of the Neptunian Grande Reserve Date Automatic (hereafter referred to as the Neptunian Grande Reserve), which was released on October 20, 2023. Edox, known as "THE WATER CHAMPION" for its expertise in waterproof watches, has created the latest model, a well-crafted diver's watch that looks stunning on the wrist.

Review of Edox's new 2023 product, Neptunian Grande Reserve!

　Edox's "Neptunian Automatic" is a diver's watch with a high water resistance of 1000m. It features a large case with a diameter of 44mm and a thickness of 15.6mm. This model was introduced a year ago.A "discussion session" where members of the "Kronos Japan" editorial team wear the jackets and freely share their thoughts on themIt is carried out.

　The Neptunian Grande Reserve was added to the Neptunian Automatic in July 2023. While the case and bracelet have been made thinner and smaller, it still maintains the 300m water resistance required for a diver's watch. Additionally, by changing the base movement from Sellita to La Joux-Perret's Caliber G100, the power reserve has been extended from approximately 38 hours to approximately 68 hours.

　The watch we are reviewing this time is the latest addition to the Neptunian Grande Reserve, a variation model that was just added in October 2011. What is the power of this model, which features a gold-colored PVD bezel, hands, and index edges?

The eye-catching design and high-quality exterior give a high level of satisfaction.

　Not only this model, but the entire Neptunian series features a dazzling impression thanks to the extensive polished finish applied to the ceramic bezel insert, case sides, and bracelet center links. Furthermore, this model's gold coloring makes it look brighter and more glamorous, while still retaining the practical functionality of a diver's watch, such as visibility and legibility. In fact, since my impressions were taken during winter, I often had the opportunity to look at this model from the cuffs of heavy clothing like sweaters and outerwear, but it had a greater presence than I expected. Combined with the gloss of the black lacquer dial, it creates a truly striking design.

　Another plus is that the bezel, lugs, and bracelet are not too sharp. This type of diver's watch is suitable for everyday wear, and its excellent design means it can be worn in a wide range of situations and coordinates with a variety of fashions. However, watches without rounded corners can be harsh on the skin or scratch clothing. This model does not have any of these concerns, and it feels smooth to the touch.

　The list price is 352,000 yen including tax. This is a reasonable price considering that many watch brands are moving into the higher price range, and I have nothing but good things to say about Edox, who has managed to create a high-quality exterior like this watch at this price range.

　The fit is also good. Although this model is 20% lighter than the Neptunian Automatic, the head is still quite heavy. However, because the lugs are short and curved, it doesn't float noticeably on my wrist (14.7 cm circumference), and I didn't feel tired even when wearing it for long periods of time.

　Another new feature of the Neptunian Grande Reserve compared to the Neptunian Automatic is the improved bracelet and buckle. At first glance, there are no noticeable differences from the Neptunian Automatic, but the butterfly buckle features folding extensions on both sides (the Neptunian Automatic has a folding buckle with a sliding extension that can be pulled out from one side). In the editorial discussion for the Neptunian Automatic mentioned above, some commented that the bracelet, buckle, and extension were a little unreliable compared to the weight of the head, but since the case itself is not that heavy, this model feels well-balanced with the bracelet. The extensions are also on both sides, which shows that consideration has been given to robustness.

　You probably won't have many opportunities to use the extension function on a daily basis. However, along with the 300m water resistance, it's a specification befitting a full-fledged diver's watch. The buckle has no fine-tuning function, making it sleek. The buckle opens and closes smoothly, making it stress-free to put on and take off.

　One thing that caught my eye was Neptune, the god of the sea, featured on the case back. According to a brand spokesperson, this is a contributing factor to the popularity of the Neptunian series. Because the case backs are screwed in, it's understandable that they might not line up, but the orientation of the medallion varies depending on the watch. On the watch I was wearing, Neptune's head was located on the 6 o'clock side of the watch, which is upside down if the 12 o'clock side is considered the correct position. However, the medallion design itself is intricate and very eye-catching. Also, because it was worn to fit my wrist perfectly, the medallion left a slight mark on my skin when I took it off, but it wasn't too sharp and didn't cause any discomfort.

Practical specs and ease of use

　Although the water resistance has certainly been scaled down compared to the existing Neptunian Automatic, 300m water resistance is sufficient for both diving and everyday use.

　By using the La Joux-Perret base movement, this model has a power reserve of approximately 68 hours, compared to the Neptunian Automatic's 38 hours. While not long enough to be called a "grande reserve," it is still a practical specification.

　The screw-down crown is easy to remove, operate, and rotate the bezel, making this a diver's watch that is generally easy to use. We would also recommend this watch to those who are owning a luxury watch for the first time.

A diver's watch that is both stylish and practical

　As mentioned at the beginning, Edox has proclaimed itself to be "THE WATER CHAMPION" and has been manufacturing highly reliable waterproof watches since the release of the "Delphin" in 1961.

　The Neptunian Grande Reserve reviewed this time also has the character of a high-quality waterproof watch, but the gold color adds an eye-catching element, making it an elegant diver's watch.

　The balance between price and quality is excellent (there are many details that are worth more than the price), making this a watch that will satisfy a wide range of people.