Over the last few years Denmark has become world famous for a range of ground breaking TV shows. Like millions of international viewers I have been captivated by dramas like The Killing (Forbrydelsen), Borgen, Those Who Kill (Den som dræber – Fortidens skygge) and The Bridge (Bron/Broen). Two years ago I visited Copenhagen on a family holiday and was impressed by how beautiful the city is. Nevertheless it certainly isn’t a place that is normally associated with fine watchmaking. Small independent brand REC Watches are trying to change this perception with their superb range of recycled timepieces.
A few months ago I was approached by REC Watch’s co founder Jonathan Kamstrup. He subsequently sent me a press release with a detailed introduction to the business. A few years ago Jonathan and his business partner visited the world watch fair Baselworld. Even though there was a range of incredible timepieces, not many were marketed under the $1,000 threshold. Ultimately this prompted them to design a series of unique watches at affordable prices. Currently the company has produced two models, the Cooper and Mark 1. My personal favourite (and review selection) is the Mark 1 M1.
There is always an air of excitement when a watch is finally delivered by a courier service. The Mark 1 M1 arrived packaged in a recycled brown box and I was really impressed with its high quality appearance. Dimensionally the watch measures 44.3mm x 13mm, which is average in todays market. I feel these proportions will appeal to a wide variety of buyers including the expanding unisex market. Generally I found the timepiece sat comfortably on my wrist and I didn’t experience any friction from the lugs. Considering the watchcase is constructed from stainless steel it also felt exceptionally lightweight. Amazingly the Mark 1 M1 weighs only 66 grams, which is lighter than most titanium and carbon timepieces I have reviewed.
What makes the Mark 1 M1 so special is the use of recycled materials in production. Each dial is constructed out of metal from a vintage Mini cooper automobile. This means that each individual timepiece has its own unique and distinctive identity. REC Watches have also engraved the VIN No. (Vehicle Identification Number) on the case back. I love the sporty chronograph counters, which have been inspired by the dashboard of a car. It is pertinent to mention that brands like RJ Romain Jerome, Bremont and Meccaniche Veloci have successfully incorporated reclaimed material into their designs. However these wonderful timepieces cost at least ten times the price.
At the heart of the watch is a Japanese OS21 Miyota quartz movement. Hopefully as the company grows they will consider equipping this timepiece with a Swiss Mechanical caliber. I realise this would significantly raise the selling price but I think it would be worthwhile. Functionally the Mark 1 M1 features hours, minutes, 24 indication, 60-minute chronograph and date facility.
The Mark 1 M1 is supplied with quality black leather strap and additional grey Nato style nylon strap. Priced competitively at: $465
For more information visit the company’s website: http://recwatches.com
