But, is it good value for money? Let’s look at it a little closer to find out.

The case

The case shape is a distinct pillowcase shape, which is always nice in appearance and frames the wrist well.

It’s not small, measuring in with a diameter of 43mm, although it doesn’t seem to actually wear that large. It also rocks a height of 16mm, which is on the tall side. It’s definitely not really designed for cuffs or smart wear, but rather the sun-soaked coast of the USA (or any nice sunny country) in a t-shirt driving a speedboat.

Lug to lug, the watch is 51mm, which is fairly average for this size watch. The lugs are angled down a suitable amount to ensure a comfortable wrap around the wrist. They feature a couple of well-made hex screws which secure the strap in place.

The case is black IP coated, which appears to be high quality and pretty thick. It feels tacky to the touch, and gives you the sense that it’ll last a good while and will be able to handle any small knocks or scrapes. It’s finished in a way that mimics a brushed finish.

The bezel is inspired by a steering compass found on ships – which you can see from the inward slant of the insert, the bold numbers and the red and white dashes. These markings are all engraved and painted with extremely impressive precision. The bezel action is also delightfully smooth and sounds a pleasant click at every point. The bezel lines up perfectly too, which believe it or not, is something relatively simple that eludes some manufacturers.

The bezel also boasts a pretty mean toothed edging, which actually reminds me of a tactical watch.

The Zatara has a mineral crystal with sapphire coating. Some manufacturers prefer these as they believe it is the best of both worlds: the scratch resistance of sapphire, with the shatter resistance of mineral. I think it’s pretty good, it’s nice and thick, and also has a reasonable layer of anti-reflective coating.

The pushers are a more polished finish than the case, so it provides a small bit of contrast there. They work well, giving good feedback during use, and are surrounded by a knurled cylinder at their base, which matches the grip of the crown. 

The screw-in crown is 8mm in diameter, so it’s definitely not subtle. The texture imitates the extension of dials and gauges found on a speedboat according to Lapizta (I’ll have to take their word for it). The thread is good quality, so you don’t feel like you’re going to cross-thread it every time you change the time or date (not that you’d have to do that much). It also has the Lapizta infinity logo raised on the end, surrounded by a matt base. The grip is definitely suitable for the crown, giving you good purchase on it. It looks the part, but is not too aggressive.

The Zatara has a 100m water resistance rating, which is suitable for swimming, poolside diving or snorkelling. But it’s not designed for more extreme depths such as normal diving. Although many of us won’t actually go down that far, it’s a surprise that it’s a water sports watch, but is not a greater water resistance rating. You’d sort of expect 150/300m. Chances are it’s because it’s a chronograph, so it’s the pushers that would be hindering the depth rating.

The Zatara has a screw-in caseback, which is stainless steel- so you have to appreciate that the rear of the watch has two different colours.it has a brushed outer ring and a polished centre circle which houses all the details. These surround a matt disc with the Lapizta logo and slogan on. The caseback is all very neatly made and finished.

As is the case with the Oryx, the Zatara has the Lapizta word engraved down the left side of the case. This actually looks pretty good, thanks to it looking a little bit subtle due to the black IP case.  It certainly doesn’t quite look as tacky as an Invicta.

The case is all very well made, with a high level of fit and finish. I think the size is decent, as it’s impressive, provides a lot of wrist presence, but is not too over the top.

The dial

In an opposite direction to the Oryx, the dial on the Zatara is very flat, matt, and devoid of any texture. That’s not to say it’s boring though. In fact, there’s a few clever design features taken from sailing.

The dial as a whole is designed in a way to mimic the instrument dials on a boat – my thoughts are it’s probably the minute track, subdials – and bezel markings that make this connection. They are quite similar in design to a speedometer and the like. 

The hour and minute hands are quite unusual in design – they emulate the hoisted sails of a sailing boat. They’re red, and a pointed tear drop shape with a skeletonised centre. It’s a bit annoying that they aren’t lumed in any way, so telling the time in the dark is impossible. The only lumed aspects of the Zatara are the hour markers in the outer minute track, and the big central chronograph seconds hand. A decision that has confused me. Still, the lume is pretty weak so you can’t see it most of the time anyway.

The big central seconds hand is a simple and effective white stick with a thin rectangular counter weight. The subdial hands are full arrows with a rounded base – again, very simple, but with very good legibility. 

The subdials are designed to emulate the controls found on a speedboat. Again, quite minimalistic thanks to the not having a border or any detailing as such. Just white printed lines located at every interval.

The minute track is also a minimalistic affair, with printed white lines at every minute, broken up by red numerals at 12, 3, 6 and 9, and then larger lumed batons at the remaining hours. The printing is all fine and precise, although the lume leaves much to be desired. 

The date window is simply cut out of the dial. It’s done with excellent precision, so no border is necessary. The date wheel is black with white numerals which is definitely the right way to go. It’s extremely subtle, yet there when you need it. The black of the wheel is matched so perfectly with the dial that it is almost camouflaged.

The printing across the entire dial generally is very good, nice and crisp. The dial is in essence rather clean in design. It’s functional, but I like the design cues that are brought in from the nautical theme. Lapizta have certainly done what they’ve set out to do, the dial does indeed appear to be inspired by a yaught or speedboat. Just the one negative in the lume to keep in mind.

The movement

The movement powering the Zatara is pretty much the most popular affordable Quartz chronograph, that being the Miyota OS20. It’s rather unremarkable, yet quietly does its job patiently and without letup.

Suitably dubbed as a workhorse movement, it’ll take a battering, and keep on ticking away – so you have no need to be concerned about whether it’ll get damaged. I’ve never had one fail on me yet. 

It’ll last you 5 years on a single battery, and that’s if you use the chronograph for an hour every day. It has an accuracy of +/-20 seconds a month, which is perfectly suitable for a Quartz.

I do like having a chronograph, as I tend to use it everyday – to time my dog walks. Interestingly, when the hour is up, it continues on to the next hour rather than stopping. This is actually pretty handy when your timing runs over an hour. But you’ll have to be aware to stop it as if you leave it running for an extended amount of time it’ll run the battery down.

The strap

The strap is 22mm wide at the lugs, reducing to 20mm at the buckle. I find this a suitable size that balances the weighty case well.

It’s made of silicone rubber, which does tend to pick up fluff and lint during everyday wear. It’s a cool, dark, black – matching the colour of the IP coated case. It also has a few nice design features on it – namely three channels running along the length of the strap on the top, which is met with the Lapizta infinity symbol (lemniscate) at either end in between the lugs. The underside has a mesh texture to it, to grip the wrist well whilst letting it breath. It also has the Lapizta logo underneath.

The strap only has one keeper loop. But, I haven’t found the strap end coming loose out of the loop at all, which is surprising. The loop has a pretty firm grip on the strap, plus the strap itself isn’t the longest. Usually I’m on the second hole of a strap (I’ve got a 7-7.5″ wrist), but with this one I’m on the fourth. There’s still plenty to go, as in 4 more holes. So if you’ve got a large wrist there’s no need to worry that it won’t fit.

The silicon is very soft, not stiff in the slightest, and and as a result, surprisingly comfortable. It doesn’t leave the wrist sore or red in the slightest, which can be the case with some rubber straps. 

The buckle is the same IP coating as the case, so it matches impeccably.

The competition

As was the case with the Oryx, I think the Meister Ambassador is a suitable competitor. It’s priced well (a little bit less than the Zatara), has a similar style of case, and matches the Zatara in chunkiness.

Alternatively I think we could go down the tool watch direction. In this case, I think the Obris Morgan Explorer is an excellent alternative. It’s not a chronograph, but is an automatic at a cheaper price of around $280.

Final comments

I personally believe that this is a real solid watch for the money. It’s pretty hard to find one as imposing as the Zatara on a similar budget of under £300. Just don’t expect to see it in the dark due to the lume. Of course, as is the case with every watch, it may not be for some – but for those of us who enjoy a big (but not too massive), well-made watch that insists attention, doesn’t spare anything in terms of wrist presence, and has a tie-in with a nautical theme, then I’m happy to recommend the Lapizta Zatara.

The post Lapizta Zatara Watch Review appeared first on 12&60.

The watch that caught my eye was the Oryx. Looking at it, it’s quite the beast and has some interesting design cues. It also looks to be quite complex in construction which I really appreciate. Although the design is not for everyone, it’s still an interesting watch. It’ll cost you $595 / £400 – so let’s see if this is a good price. 

The case

There’s no doubt about it, you definitely get your money’s worth when it comes to the size of the Oryx. Measuring in at 48mm in diameter, with a lug to lug length of 54.5mm, and a height of 18mm, you’re getting a truly impressive timepiece. The size is pretty much the deciding factor for many. For those who like smaller watches, the Oryx isn’t for you. But, if you’re like me, and love a mighty and substantial timepiece strapped to your wrist, then it’ll suit you perfectly. Whilst it’s got a large diameter at 48mm, thanks to the dumpy lugs it fits on medium wrist sizes (I’m 7.5″, but I don’t think you could get away with a smaller wrist). The height is also taller than one would be used to. It’s definitely a watch that is designed to be worn with a tshirt or short sleeves – firstly so you can show off the watch, but secondly because it’s petty hard to fit it under a cuff.

The weight of the Oryx is 180g, so it feels very considerable on the wrist, reassuring you of its quality. 

The crystal has a slight dome, offering a subtle  distortion at right angles. It is a mineral crystal with sapphire coating; which I’ve seen used a number of times. This is because the manufacturers say that it offers the best of both worlds – the scratch resistance of sapphire, with the shatter resistance of mineral. I’m pretty happy with how it’s turned out – it’s very clear, and it’s thick too – providing a decent thud noise when you tap it. It has a layer of anti-reflective coating in the underside, but be wise of the domed top, it doesn’t seem to stop the reflections that well – the watch was a bit of a pain to photograph because of all the reflections.

It has distinctive and strongly designed numbers printed in the on underside, which reminds me of Chopard. Not a bad thing. They almost float across the dial, which is a pleasant design feature of the watch. And not having the numbers on the dial itself allows it to dedicate that space for other things.

The screw-in crown is a size that matches the watch, measuring in at 10mm on its own. It’s flanked by two stumpy but effective crown guards. The crown is an impressive element on its own, with a thick band of flat teeth applied to the centre of the polished steel cylinder. It has the Lapizta infinity symbol (or lemniscate) neatly etched in the end, which lines up perfectly flat to the case when you screw it in – which surprisingly doesn’t happen anywhere near as often as you’d hope with watches below £1000. I guess it’s an extra complication and cost getting it lined up they’d rather not have to worry about.

The pushers are designed and made to give a similar feel and look as the crown, so the right side of the case is all unison in appearance. The pushers themselves are polished, with a slight curved end so they’re not sharp to the touch. The pushers are surrounded by what appears to be the grip of a screw-down pusher lock (like what’s found on the Alpha Radomir), which almost matches the grip on the crown, thus following the design through. The pushers give positive feedback and are nice and large, perfect for using the chronograph.

On the opposite side of the case, you’ll find the word Lapizta etched along the length of it. Don’t worry, it’s not like what you’d find on an Invicta. Because it’s PVD, it’s actually quite subtle to look at and isn’t an eye sore, even though the etching is pleasantly deep.

The bezel is inspired by a brake disc, and I think it looks and feels great. I like the trio of holes where the screws are located, mimicking a brake disc perfectly. I also like the usage of hex screws, working towards the Motorsport feel of the watch well. It’s stainless steel, with a circular brushed finish, which offsets the black case. Looking at the bezel side-on presents an added level of complexity which is nice to see, it’s almost like a tooth sandwich, with two layers of steel above and below a grooved layer. A nice touch of extra attention to detail there, as the bezel could have been just one simple piece of steel with no special machining.

The case is PVD plated, which is inspired by a racing cars gear stick. The posting Serbs to be thick and uniform, and I’d say that it’s likely to last a while.

The screw-in caseback is fairly simple, yet pleasant. It has a brushed outer ring, with a polished centre which houses the interesting stuff. Around the outside is a variety of watch specifics, such as the name, model number, and what it’s made of. Within this ring is a checkered flag in the bottom half and the Lapizta logo in the top half, all offset on a blasted finish which is attractive to the eye when coupled with the variety of finishes on the rear of the watch.

The Oryx has a water resistance rating of 100m, which is perfectly acceptable for a watch that’s not aimed towards water sports. With 100m, you can fully submerge it, and you can swim and go snorkelling in it. It’s just not suitable for deeper swimming, such as scuba diving.

The case as a whole is impressive, with a variety of facets and elements to it. You definitely feel that you’re getting your money’s worth which is good.

The dial

The dial is mainly characterised by its checkered pattern, to mimic the checkered flag you’d see on a race track. The checkering is very precise indeed. The dial in its entirety is three layered, and provides lovely depth and texture that I really like.

The subdials are designed to mimic the dials you’d find on the dashboard of a sportscar. This is evident from the flashes of red throughout the markings, and also the raised borders they have that allow them to stand out against the complicated checkered pattern of the dial. The hands of the subdials are all neat skeletonised white arrows with a red base. The left subdial is chronograph minutes, the bottom is the running seconds, and the right is a 24hr indicator.

Another nod to racing is the minute and hour hands, designed in a way to mimic the starting lights on a race track. The white lumed tips have a row of holes drilled into them; two on the hour hand and 4 on the minute hand. The second hand is a simple long white point. The lume is average at best, in fact I haven’t been able to really see it much in day to day usage. The base of the minute and hour hands are actually skeletonised also. I was worried that it would make them hard to read but surprisingly they stand out perfectly well against the dial and provide good legibility.

The Lapizta logo is located at the top half of the dial, on its own platform that’s the same raised height as the checkered pattern. The printing is smooth and bold, yet precise.

The round date window is located between 4 and 5, and is quite small and subtle. It has a straightforward rounded border to it, creating a smooth transition from the complex dial texture to the wheel itself. The wheel is white with black text. Some may complain that it’s not the same colour as the dial, but I think that there’s enough white elements on the dial that it appears to match well.

Around the outer edge of the dial is a detailed minute track, incorporating the hour markers. The hour markers seem to be inspired by Hublot, as they are exactly the same in design as those you’d find on a Big Bang – wide, with two raised edges, and a pitch on the inside bottom edge. They’re all the same length and align up nicely over the outer chapter ring and the inner dial. The minute track is split into two rings, one inner ring, which is red with white lines at every 5th of a second, and an outer black ring with well formed indents at every minute, and the number printed at every 5 minutes. This outer chapter ring edges the main section of the dial well, not only offering a bit of colour but also keeps things interesting.

I’m pretty impressed by the overall detailing of the dial. Although it’s all very complex, it’s made without fault and is obviously high quality, that took some serious skill to manufacture. 

The strap

The leather strap is a suitable heart width to counteract the size of the case. It actually does a very good job at keeping the balance equal whist on the wrist, the case doesn’t misbehave and roll off, which can be frustrating. There’s no wonder when you realise that the strap measures a whipping 26mm wide at the lugs, reducing to 24mm at the buckle. I think this is the widest strap I’ve reviewed on a watch. But the Oryx hides the epic width well, and it doesn’t look preposterous. In fact, it looks right. Any thinner and it would look completely out of proportion.

The strap is black leather with red stitching, and a red underside too. This is reminiscent of and designed to mimic racing car seats, which I feel it does well. The double red stitching is particularly racing-esque and also looks pretty cool. The sticking is all very neatly and accurately stitched, and the stitches are clearly high quality, giving you a sense of quality and the feeling that this strap won’t fall apart easily.

The red of the underside is a colour synonymous with racing thanks to Ferrari, again providing an interesting and unexpected splash of colour that works well with the watch. The Lapizta logo is also precisely punched into the underside of the strap, at the lug end of both parts. Cool.

The tang buckle is IP coated to match the case, and is also quite angular in construction to carry the design through. It has the Lapizta logo etched on the top bar, which in my eyes would have been better ever so slightly deeper as you can’t see it quite as much as I’d like. The engraving is still pretty exact though.

The pin is reminiscent of a curved pre-v buckle, which bends and is shaped to fit the holes in the strap better, thus reducing wear and allowing the strap to last longer.

As I mentioned before, I do like the usage of hex screws around the watch – which continues through into the strap. They are used on the buckle and lug pins.

The leather is soft, and it works well towards keeping this large and heavy watch comfortable. It’s good quality, supple, and feels class on the wrist. 

The movement

The movement powering the Lapizta Oryx is a Miyota OS20 Quartz chronograph. It’s solid, dependable, and used a huge amount in a wide range of watches.

There’s really not a great deal to say about it, apart from if offers a 5 year battery life, and has an accuracy of +/-20 seconds a month. It’s pretty useful having a solid chronograph in the collection. I use one every day to time my dog walks and I’ve been pretty happy with how the Lapizta Oryx has performed. The movement feels good in the hand when you’re altering the time or date, and proceed good feedback through the chronograph buttons.

I’m pretty confident that the movement in the Oryx will last for a very long time. 

The competition

There’s not a great deal out there offering such an impressively sized watch for the same price which is designed in a similar way.

The watch that is most like the Oryx that springs to my mind is the Meister Ambassador. I haven’t reviewed or seen one in the flesh, but it looks pretty good for the price ($300-$400) and is styled in a similar vein to the Oryx.

Another watch is the Orient Elite, which is an automatic and will cost $395. Again, its styled similarly and would be impressive build quality as all Orients are.

Final comments

Obviously the Lapizta Oryx is a watch that won’t be for everyone. You need to be able to carry off a large watch on the wrist, and like larger sized timepieces too.

But, if it does call out to you then I would highly recommend it. I’ve really enjoyed my time wearing it, and there’s not a lot else out there that offers quite this much watch for the money. The packaging is impressive too, which provides an enjoyable opening experience and is always a pleasant surprise. There’s obviously been a lot of thought into the design, and the fit and finish, and also the level of complexity to the watch makes it a timepiece that really stands out.

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