The last time we looked at a G. Gerlach model (the Otago, reviewed here), we had a distinct vintage diver feel, that even hit a slightly military vibe when I paired it up with another strap (the Steveo, here). In contrast, one of their latest models, the Batory, dons the appearance of a dress watch.
Or, if not a dress watch (in the purest sense of the form), it’s definitely got those leanings, with the polished case and white dial being paired with the black leather strap (though with that being a matte finish, it makes it a little more casual). The case itself measures in at a modern 40mm, and is topped with a domed sapphire crystal (complete with AR coating). A quick side bar here on that domed crystal. For me, while a flat crystal functions just fine (and actually quite well for a select variety of watch), the domed crystal just adds a bit more to the watch.
Visually, you get that curvature playing with the light, and it just gives that extra bit of refinement. Plus, it can help (oddly enough) with some of the light reflection properties, by sending light off to the sides, rather than directly back at you, as you may have with a flat crystal. This isn’t an across the board, “for sure”, thing, but it definitely acts as a secondary reflection diffuser more often than not, I’ve found. Now, back to the watch!
Under that domed crystal, you have a brilliant white enamel dial with black indices and numerals, and a large date display (separate digits) appearing just below the 12 o’clock position (note: there is a non-date option as well, it seems); this is set via the pusher over at 10 o’clock. Down at 6 o’clock you have a fairly large small-seconds dial – actually, it doesn’t seem like it could be any larger given the dial size. All three hands that appear on the watch have the look of blued steel; the main hour and minute hands add some light-catching via the crease running down their centers.
Branding on the dial is minimal, and is balanced (at 9 and 3 o’clock). The RotorSystem branding reflects the fact that the watch is an automatic, in this case powered by the SeaGull ST2656 (AAA Grade) movement. Provided you’re not fiddling with the date pusher or the crown, the watch carries a WR Rating of 100m, which is plenty for day-to-day use, especially in a style like this. And the style is something I think you coudl mix up pretty easily. While I’ve found the G. Gerlach straps to be quite nice, you could really change the looks of the watch by swapping in a brown strap, taking it even further towards casual style.
The watch is up for pre-order (here) at a price of around $375 at current conversion rates, with delivery anticipated later this summer. gerlach.org.pl
