There are many brands selling “minimalist” watches but precious few add anything to the genre. It is a shame because this clean, sparse style is an excellent framework for expression and creativity, yet all too often, “minimalist” watches provide little more than the same tired frame. That is why it is refreshing to see brands like Maven Watches embrace the genre to produce a range of watches that reflects their own fresh, modern aesthetic, like the Urban Scout featured today.
Inspired by architecture and organic forms, Maven seeks a balance between city life and natural beauty. The Urban Scout exemplifies this approach, using a subtle color palette to infuse a traditional military design with a cool, youthful sensibility.
The round stainless steel case has a rugged, bead-blasted matte finish like a conventional field watch, while sharply angular lugs give it a more contemporary edge. Measuring 40mm wide, the watch is part of Maven’s men’s line, but given its overall length of 48mm and slim 8mm height, it is still small enough to be a comfortable fit for most women as well.
As you can see from the cleanly engraved case back, the Urban Scout isn’t just for show. A scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and a water-resistant case protect the watch when the adventures get more rugged. Inside, you will find a durable Swiss quartz movement.
The dial presents Maven’s greatest departure from field watch orthodoxy, and not coincidentally, it is where those choices yield the greatest reward. An eggshell white dial provides a quiet background for dark gray indices and hands. Hour markers are presented in a two-digit format and arranged in a radial pattern. Darts mark the cardinal points inside the seconds track. A pop of orange at the top dart gives a nod to the military timepieces that inspired it. A second dab of orange on the second hand’s tail enlivens the dial just a little further. When the lights get low, Swiss luminescence on the white baton hands will keep things legible.
A 20mm Italian leather strap adds a touch of luxury. On this model, it is an attractive natural buff color with white stitching. A signed pin buckle finished to match the case is standard. Quick-release springbars make strap changes a snap. Other variations include a dark blue dial with a brown strap, a dusty rose dial with a white strap, and a black dial with a black strap. A Parachute Edition with an elastic Marine Nationale style strap will be available soon.
The Urban Scout is a delightful watch, but even more so when you factor in its price. It is available directly from Maven for just $215. If you are looking for a sleek, modern watch with a smart, urban sensibility, you should visit MavenWatches.com and browse the Urban Scout as well as their other collections. You won’t be disappointed.
