Over the last few years I have received exceptionally detailed press material from a variety of different companies. A lot the personnel I originally made contact with have moved to other groups or different industries. I have also noticed that on some occasions the marketing executives I speak to don’t show a true passion for the world of horology. Certainly nothing like the same interest that is displayed by small independents. When I talk to innovators like Jean-Marie Schaller, Maximilian Büsser and Konstantin Chaykin I feel completely energised. This enthusiasm has now filtered down to smaller brands like Lew & Huey.
The last time I featured Lew & Huey on Total Watch Reviews was back in September 2014. I was fortunate to test their stylish Acionna model, which is loosely inspired by the designs of the Patek Philippe Nautilus and Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore timepieces. Owner Chris Vail has a massive interest in classical watches and respects the level of Swiss craftsmanship. However from our recent conversations I have learned that his prime objective is to produce elegant and affordable timepieces. This means that the movements have to be sourced from Japan and the cases manufactured in China to keep the cost price at a reasonable level.
A few weeks ago Chris Vail invited me to test one of his new exciting models called the Cerberus. The watch derives its name from a three-headed dog in Greek mythology and definitely has a high quality appearance. Dimensionally the timepiece is slightly larger than the Acionna and measures 42mm x 50mm x 12.5mm. Although the watch actually seems a lot smaller than a lot watches I have recently tested. Generally I found the timepiece sat very comfortably on my wrist and I would be happy to wear this on a daily basis. Primarily this is down to the elegant case design and choice of 316L stainless steel in production. Normally I prefer materials like titanium or carbon but in this instance steel suits the style of watch.
Visually the Omega Aqua Terra, Zenith El Primero Espada, and Rolex Milgauss timepieces have influenced the design of the Cerberus. Nevertheless I still feel the timepiece shows enough original characteristics of it is own. The blue textured dial perfectly interacts with the orange and blue chapter rings. Other distinctive features include raised steel indexes, domed sapphire crystal and a large date window (positioned at 6 o’clock). Overall I feel the composition is pleasing and the attention to detail is very high.
At the heart of the watch is a Japanese made Miyota 9015 self-winding movement. This Caliber comprises 24-jewels and oscillates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour. Although I like the engraving on the case back I would have much preferred sapphire crystal so I could see the mechanism. Functionally the Cerberus features hours, minutes, seconds and date facility. The timepiece also has a power reserve of 42-hours and is water resistant to a depth of 100 metres.
The Cerberus has a high quality stainless steel bracelet with folding clasp. Priced competitively at: $575 ($25 off with coupon code “TWR”).
For the chance of winning a Lew & Huey Orthos follow this link: http://www.lewandhuey.com/giveaway
