Over the years I have never been what you would consider a petrol head or particularly crazy about cars in general. However, now that I have a 7-year old boy who is obsessed with fast automobiles my interest has heightened dramatically. Maybe it is a way of bonding with my son because we can spend hours looking at the latest models and scrutinising their performance statistics. Alternatively, it could be that the designs have become a lot more innovative and sophisticated. Certainly the watch industry thinks so because they have massively tapped into this market. A few good examples are companies like Richard Mille, Hublot, B.R.M and Danish brand REC.
Presently the watch industry is experiencing a lot of turbulence and there are many casualties. However, on a positive note many micro brands are launching superb looking timepieces at very attainable prices to entice consumers. Over the last few years I have written articles featuring watches by SevenFriday, Dietrich, Lytt Labs, and Code 41. All of these timepieces have opted to use Japanese movements instead of Swiss alternatives. Ultimately this is because the mechanisms are more accessible and affordable. For their latest watch the P51-02 REC have also equipped it with a high grade MIYOTA 9130 26-jewel caliber.
Previously I have reviewed the Mark I and Minimalist watches from REC. These models are decent enough quartz powered timepieces but in my opinion not in the same league as the P51-02. REC’s unique selling point is that they craft their dials from salvaged vintage cars. In this instance they have sourced material from 1960’s recycled Mustangs. I absolutely love the façade of this timepiece, which replicates the dashboard of a Mustang. Details like the odometer styled date window and fuel gauge inspired power reserve indication are a touch of genius.
Even though the P51-02 isn’t massive by modern standards (44mm X 44mm x 10.8mm) it definitely makes a really bold statement. For a watch of this class it is also really competitively priced at $1,495, which includes free worldwide delivery by FedEx.
