Introduction<\/strong><\/h2>\nI am once again delighted to review a Vario watch. This is a brand that consistently puts out cool designs and stays active in the watch community, especially in Asia and around Singapore. Today\u2019s review is a little different for me because it is about a true beater quartz watch<\/a>, which is not my usual choice, but this one really feels like it could survive anything and keep you on time even in a post-apocalyptic world.<\/p>\nPros and Cons<\/strong><\/h2>\nPros:<\/strong> Comfortable and lightweight thanks to the quartz movement<\/a>, solar powered, excellent raised printing, good lume, and a fantastic quality-to-price ratio.<\/p>\nCons:<\/strong> A screw-down crown<\/a> would have been a great addition for extra water resistance<\/a>, as 50 meters feels a bit low for swimming or water activities.<\/p>\nThe Brand<\/strong><\/h2>\nVario specializes in vintage-inspired watches with a modern twist, and after reviewing several of their models, I can confidently say they excel in delivering value for money. They offer plenty of variations within each collection, and I have long been a fan of their trench watches with enamel<\/a> dials. They are absolutely stunning, especially paired with a Bund strap<\/a>.<\/p>\nPackaging<\/strong><\/h2>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.hypeandstyle.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/IMG_0323-1024x615.jpg\")
<\/figure>\nThe watch arrives in a utilitarian travel pouch with a hard outer shell and soft, cushioned interior. It is perfect for carrying a watch when you are on the move and is ideal for someone who travels with one or two watches.<\/p>\n
Design<\/strong><\/h2>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.hypeandstyle.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/IMG_0331-1024x479.jpg\")
<\/figure>\nThe 1945 A-11S takes its inspiration from WWII field watches but adds a few modern twists.<\/p>\n
One standout feature is the crown<\/a> at 4 o\u2019clock<\/a>. This is not something I have seen on vintage field watches, but it makes a lot of sense. In a watch meant for active use, a crown<\/a> at 3 o\u2019clock<\/a> can dig into your wrist, while at 4 o\u2019clock<\/a> it is comfortably out of the way.<\/p>\nAnother clever touch is the \u201csecond<\/a> hand\u201d which is not a traditional hand but a rotating disc in the center with a small white circle that lets you know the watch is running. The Vario logo is embossed in the same color as the dial<\/a>, keeping it subtle and clean, which is a refreshing break from brands that plaster their name across the dial<\/a>.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.hypeandstyle.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/IMG_0325.jpg\")
<\/figure>\nOtherwise, the dial<\/a> is classic field watch. You have painted black hands<\/a> for legibility, crisp printing on a white textured background, and minute markers at 10-minute intervals. I also like the small red arrow at 12, which may nod to British military field watches. The case<\/a> gets a modern upgrade with a polished bevel on the bezel<\/a> and chamfered lugs<\/a>, and the crown<\/a> features a lume-filled Vario logo which is another fun detail.<\/p>\nI received mine on a rugged nylon strap<\/a>, but I quickly swapped it for a French parachute strap<\/a>, which suits the watch perfectly and adds even more comfort.<\/p>\nQuality<\/strong><\/h2>\nCase<\/a> and Crown<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.hypeandstyle.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/IMG_0326.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.hypeandstyle.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/IMG_0327.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.hypeandstyle.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/IMG_0332-1024x531.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.hypeandstyle.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/IMG_0328-1024x559.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\nThe brushed finish is well executed, especially the circular brushing on the top of the lugs<\/a>. The polished edges and chamfers are sharp on the bezel<\/a>, less so on the lugs<\/a>, but at this price point<\/a> that is forgivable.<\/p>\nDial<\/a> and Hands<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.hypeandstyle.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/20250807_164651.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.hypeandstyle.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/IMG_0324.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\nThe textured dial<\/a> has impressively thick, shiny printing with no visible flaws, even under magnification. The slightly raised printing catches the light nicely. The painted black hands<\/a> match the tool-watch aesthetic.<\/p>\nStrap<\/a> and Buckle<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.hypeandstyle.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/IMG_0329-1024x650.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.hypeandstyle.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/IMG_0330.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\nThe supplied strap<\/a> is sturdy with metal-reinforced holes for durability. The clasp, though generic, has a vintage flair that suits the watch.<\/p>\nLume<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.hypeandstyle.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/20250807_165917.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.hypeandstyle.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/20250807_165935.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\nThe lume is respectable for the price, likely BGW9, and is applied to the hands<\/a> and crown<\/a> logo. It is not the best lume I have seen, but it is still solid value for under 200 dollars.<\/p>\nMovement<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\nThe solar quartz movement<\/a> is accurate to about \u00b110 seconds a month, and the best part is you will likely never need a battery change. I like the idea of a watch that will keep running as long as there is sunlight, and if the sun is gone then timekeeping will be the least of my worries.<\/p>\nWorth Noting: It can run 4 months on a full charge in the dark.<\/em><\/p>\nQuality Conclusion<\/strong><\/h3>\nFor 200 dollars, you are getting solar power, good finishing<\/a>, decent lume, and excellent printing. It punches above its price point<\/a> even if it is still a simple design overall.<\/p>\nOn the Wrist (Comfort)<\/strong><\/h2>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.hypeandstyle.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/IMG_0333.jpg\")
<\/figure>\nOn my 17cm wrist, the 40mm case<\/a> wears perfectly, with lugs<\/a> that do not overhang. The light weight makes it disappear on the wrist, especially with the parachute strap<\/a>. There is also a 36mm option for smaller wrists or those wanting a more vintage feel.<\/p>\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.hypeandstyle.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/IMG_0334.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.hypeandstyle.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/IMG_0335.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\nPrice vs Quality<\/strong><\/h2>\nAt 198 USD (about 169 EUR), this watch offers tremendous value. Compared to many fashion brands charging the same or more for basic quartz<\/a> watches, the 1945 A-11S delivers solar power, thoughtful design details, and solid build quality.<\/p>\nConclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.hypeandstyle.fr\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/IMG_0337.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n
Pros and Cons<\/strong><\/h2>\nPros:<\/strong> Comfortable and lightweight thanks to the quartz movement<\/a>, solar powered, excellent raised printing, good lume, and a fantastic quality-to-price ratio.<\/p>\nCons:<\/strong> A screw-down crown<\/a> would have been a great addition for extra water resistance<\/a>, as 50 meters feels a bit low for swimming or water activities.<\/p>\nThe Brand<\/strong><\/h2>\nVario specializes in vintage-inspired watches with a modern twist, and after reviewing several of their models, I can confidently say they excel in delivering value for money. They offer plenty of variations within each collection, and I have long been a fan of their trench watches with enamel<\/a> dials. They are absolutely stunning, especially paired with a Bund strap<\/a>.<\/p>\nPackaging<\/strong><\/h2>\n<\/figure>\nThe watch arrives in a utilitarian travel pouch with a hard outer shell and soft, cushioned interior. It is perfect for carrying a watch when you are on the move and is ideal for someone who travels with one or two watches.<\/p>\n
Design<\/strong><\/h2>\n<\/figure>\nThe 1945 A-11S takes its inspiration from WWII field watches but adds a few modern twists.<\/p>\n
One standout feature is the crown<\/a> at 4 o\u2019clock<\/a>. This is not something I have seen on vintage field watches, but it makes a lot of sense. In a watch meant for active use, a crown<\/a> at 3 o\u2019clock<\/a> can dig into your wrist, while at 4 o\u2019clock<\/a> it is comfortably out of the way.<\/p>\nAnother clever touch is the \u201csecond<\/a> hand\u201d which is not a traditional hand but a rotating disc in the center with a small white circle that lets you know the watch is running. The Vario logo is embossed in the same color as the dial<\/a>, keeping it subtle and clean, which is a refreshing break from brands that plaster their name across the dial<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/figure>\nOtherwise, the dial<\/a> is classic field watch. You have painted black hands<\/a> for legibility, crisp printing on a white textured background, and minute markers at 10-minute intervals. I also like the small red arrow at 12, which may nod to British military field watches. The case<\/a> gets a modern upgrade with a polished bevel on the bezel<\/a> and chamfered lugs<\/a>, and the crown<\/a> features a lume-filled Vario logo which is another fun detail.<\/p>\nI received mine on a rugged nylon strap<\/a>, but I quickly swapped it for a French parachute strap<\/a>, which suits the watch perfectly and adds even more comfort.<\/p>\nQuality<\/strong><\/h2>\nCase<\/a> and Crown<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\nThe brushed finish is well executed, especially the circular brushing on the top of the lugs<\/a>. The polished edges and chamfers are sharp on the bezel<\/a>, less so on the lugs<\/a>, but at this price point<\/a> that is forgivable.<\/p>\nDial<\/a> and Hands<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\nThe textured dial<\/a> has impressively thick, shiny printing with no visible flaws, even under magnification. The slightly raised printing catches the light nicely. The painted black hands<\/a> match the tool-watch aesthetic.<\/p>\nStrap<\/a> and Buckle<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\nThe supplied strap<\/a> is sturdy with metal-reinforced holes for durability. The clasp, though generic, has a vintage flair that suits the watch.<\/p>\nLume<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\nThe lume is respectable for the price, likely BGW9, and is applied to the hands<\/a> and crown<\/a> logo. It is not the best lume I have seen, but it is still solid value for under 200 dollars.<\/p>\nMovement<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\nThe solar quartz movement<\/a> is accurate to about \u00b110 seconds a month, and the best part is you will likely never need a battery change. I like the idea of a watch that will keep running as long as there is sunlight, and if the sun is gone then timekeeping will be the least of my worries.<\/p>\nWorth Noting: It can run 4 months on a full charge in the dark.<\/em><\/p>\nQuality Conclusion<\/strong><\/h3>\nFor 200 dollars, you are getting solar power, good finishing<\/a>, decent lume, and excellent printing. It punches above its price point<\/a> even if it is still a simple design overall.<\/p>\nOn the Wrist (Comfort)<\/strong><\/h2>\n<\/figure>\nOn my 17cm wrist, the 40mm case<\/a> wears perfectly, with lugs<\/a> that do not overhang. The light weight makes it disappear on the wrist, especially with the parachute strap<\/a>. There is also a 36mm option for smaller wrists or those wanting a more vintage feel.<\/p>\n\n<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\nPrice vs Quality<\/strong><\/h2>\nAt 198 USD (about 169 EUR), this watch offers tremendous value. Compared to many fashion brands charging the same or more for basic quartz<\/a> watches, the 1945 A-11S delivers solar power, thoughtful design details, and solid build quality.<\/p>\nConclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n<\/figure>\n
Cons:<\/strong> A screw-down crown<\/a> would have been a great addition for extra water resistance<\/a>, as 50 meters feels a bit low for swimming or water activities.<\/p>\n Vario specializes in vintage-inspired watches with a modern twist, and after reviewing several of their models, I can confidently say they excel in delivering value for money. They offer plenty of variations within each collection, and I have long been a fan of their trench watches with enamel<\/a> dials. They are absolutely stunning, especially paired with a Bund strap<\/a>.<\/p>\n The watch arrives in a utilitarian travel pouch with a hard outer shell and soft, cushioned interior. It is perfect for carrying a watch when you are on the move and is ideal for someone who travels with one or two watches.<\/p>\n The 1945 A-11S takes its inspiration from WWII field watches but adds a few modern twists.<\/p>\n One standout feature is the crown<\/a> at 4 o\u2019clock<\/a>. This is not something I have seen on vintage field watches, but it makes a lot of sense. In a watch meant for active use, a crown<\/a> at 3 o\u2019clock<\/a> can dig into your wrist, while at 4 o\u2019clock<\/a> it is comfortably out of the way.<\/p>\n Another clever touch is the \u201csecond<\/a> hand\u201d which is not a traditional hand but a rotating disc in the center with a small white circle that lets you know the watch is running. The Vario logo is embossed in the same color as the dial<\/a>, keeping it subtle and clean, which is a refreshing break from brands that plaster their name across the dial<\/a>.<\/p>\n Otherwise, the dial<\/a> is classic field watch. You have painted black hands<\/a> for legibility, crisp printing on a white textured background, and minute markers at 10-minute intervals. I also like the small red arrow at 12, which may nod to British military field watches. The case<\/a> gets a modern upgrade with a polished bevel on the bezel<\/a> and chamfered lugs<\/a>, and the crown<\/a> features a lume-filled Vario logo which is another fun detail.<\/p>\n I received mine on a rugged nylon strap<\/a>, but I quickly swapped it for a French parachute strap<\/a>, which suits the watch perfectly and adds even more comfort.<\/p>\n The brushed finish is well executed, especially the circular brushing on the top of the lugs<\/a>. The polished edges and chamfers are sharp on the bezel<\/a>, less so on the lugs<\/a>, but at this price point<\/a> that is forgivable.<\/p>\n The textured dial<\/a> has impressively thick, shiny printing with no visible flaws, even under magnification. The slightly raised printing catches the light nicely. The painted black hands<\/a> match the tool-watch aesthetic.<\/p>\n The supplied strap<\/a> is sturdy with metal-reinforced holes for durability. The clasp, though generic, has a vintage flair that suits the watch.<\/p>\n The lume is respectable for the price, likely BGW9, and is applied to the hands<\/a> and crown<\/a> logo. It is not the best lume I have seen, but it is still solid value for under 200 dollars.<\/p>\n The solar quartz movement<\/a> is accurate to about \u00b110 seconds a month, and the best part is you will likely never need a battery change. I like the idea of a watch that will keep running as long as there is sunlight, and if the sun is gone then timekeeping will be the least of my worries.<\/p>\n Worth Noting: It can run 4 months on a full charge in the dark.<\/em><\/p>\n For 200 dollars, you are getting solar power, good finishing<\/a>, decent lume, and excellent printing. It punches above its price point<\/a> even if it is still a simple design overall.<\/p>\n On my 17cm wrist, the 40mm case<\/a> wears perfectly, with lugs<\/a> that do not overhang. The light weight makes it disappear on the wrist, especially with the parachute strap<\/a>. There is also a 36mm option for smaller wrists or those wanting a more vintage feel.<\/p>\n At 198 USD (about 169 EUR), this watch offers tremendous value. Compared to many fashion brands charging the same or more for basic quartz<\/a> watches, the 1945 A-11S delivers solar power, thoughtful design details, and solid build quality.<\/p>\nThe Brand<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Packaging<\/strong><\/h2>\n
<\/figure>\nDesign<\/strong><\/h2>\n
<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\nQuality<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Case<\/a> and Crown<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n
<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\nDial<\/a> and Hands<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n
<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\nStrap<\/a> and Buckle<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n
<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\nLume<\/strong><\/h3>\n
<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\nMovement<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n
Quality Conclusion<\/strong><\/h3>\n
On the Wrist (Comfort)<\/strong><\/h2>\n
<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\nPrice vs Quality<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n
<\/figure>\n