When Vario launched the outstanding Empire Art Deco watch earlier this year, they offered it with a new strap, cut from Italian leather with a classic taper. I thought it was a perfect complement to the watch and likely many others. For this review, Vario sent me a set in the full range of colors as well as four of their new watch travel cases, all of which will then be raffled off at the District Time watch show (October 12-13, Washington, DC, join us!).
Vintage Italian Leather Strap
Out of respect for the eventual winners, these straps have been fitted on watches for photos and then carefully packed away unworn; however, I have been wearing my own Vario Italian strap on my personal Empire, so I can attest to its comfort and fit.
The Vario straps are made from full-grain leather from Provincia de Vicenza, Italy that has a rich texture and deep color. They are 3mm thick and taper to 2mm at the buckle for a classic look. Colors include Onyx Black, Pewter Gray, Royal Blue, Espresso Brown, and Mahogany Brown. All have cream color stitching, which tones them down a bit and complements watches with gold accents or off-white dials like that of my Tissot V8.
Vario offers the strap in 18, 19, 20, and 22mm widths, all with handy, quick-release straps. I was particularly keen on the 19mm as I have a growing number of late 60’s pieces like the two Seikos pictured here that need that oddball size. I found it paired particularly well with these vintage pieces.
The Vario Vintage Italian is a tailored, understated strap and a satisfying alternative to the now almost ubiquitous minimal stitch style. For $32, it’s hard to pass up.
Deluxe Travel Case
Try as I might, I cannot look at the $25 Deluxe Travel Case without thinking of a donut. It’s not a donut, of course, as it has no center hole, but some first impressions are hard to shake. That said, this compact unit has come in handy. Sturdy, crush-proof, and compact (5″ wide and 2.3″ high), the case will swallow one watch – even big ones like the 54mm G-Shock. It is covered in a tough fabric in your choice of four muted colors.
The watch inside is held in circular depression that is zippered securely shut. That semi-donut hole in the center keeps it in place and prevents it from coming into contact with itself, which is a great advantage when carrying a watch on a bracelet as the clasp cannot rub the caseback. I love my watch rolls, but when I want to carry one in the most protected manner possible, this is the case I reach for.
You can buy the straps and cases at Vario.sg and be sure to take advantage of the volume discount. Also, if you find yourself in Washington, DC on October 12 or 13, 2019, stop by District Time to check them out in person and maybe take a free one home! ⬩
Use code TIMEBUM8 for 8% off your purchase at Vario.sg
