Friday, April 6, 2012

Wrapping up 15 + Days with the Vostok-Europe Gaz-Limo Quartz Chronograph

To be honest, this was meant to be wrapped-up a few days ago, but in the case of the the Vostok-Europe Gaz-Limo Quartz Chronograph, I cheated and snuck in a few extra days... yes it was worth it!


Perhaps one of the most constant things running through my mind during this test was the quality of the look and feel.  It can often happen with watches in a certain price range that in trying to look more expensive than they are, they look cheesy.   For the non-native English speakers out there reading this, cheesy is NOT GOOD!  But the Vostok really has a great look to it.  This starts with the dial.  Three clear sub dials and a restrained use of colors.  Sticking essentially to black, silver and white the Gaz-Limo Quartz Chronograph has a very elegant look.  The numbers are applied, which adds a very pleasing "depth of field".  The hands and numbers match, and the white for the seconds and the tachymeter complement, rather than distract the other components making up the face.


The size of the watch was, to quote Goldylocks - "just right".  The case measures 43 mm in diameter, but owing to the smoothly rounded case, the angled bezel, and the flat crystal, it does not overwhelm the wrist.  The bezel and the crystal were very well thought-out design aspects because the increase the viewable area of the dial.


The accuracy was what you would expect from a quality quartz movement.  Yes, I am still a fan of mechanicals and self-winders, but there is truly something to be said for the knowledge that your watch will be accurate and precise.  And the sub-dial at 6 divides the even the seconds being timed into 10 equal measures.


Getting back to comfort, the strap and buckle were a real pleasure.  


At 22 mm in width, the strap is just the right size to complement the watch without overpowering it.  The leather is soft and supple, comfortable all day.


Instead of going for the usual "semi-functioning" (meaning works for about a week until it breaks) deployment clasp, Vostok-Europe wisely opted for a buckle.  


Nice, solid, and with the logo engraved/stamped, not merely laser-etched.


The finishing of the watch was perhaps one of the most impressive things for a watch in this price category.  Smooth - no rough edges, and a clean, tasteful appearance.




From the dial, to the case to the pushers (which worked flawlessly), the level of finishing work was first rate.
At a suggested retail of $289, this is a lot of watch for the money. Perfect for a high-school graduation, or a Father's Day remembrance.

A sincere thank you to the good folks at Vostok-Europe, and particularly Vostok-Eu



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