Relio Watches: The Best Priced Sports Watch Out there?

Today I'm continuing my research into Microbrand watches, specifically I'm keen to learn about what are people looking for as I'm thinking of starting one myself. I stumbled upon Relio Watches during my search and love the look of their inaugural Solstice Model, I hope to see more from them in the future. 

Brand History

Relio Watches are an American microbrand based in Los Angeles, California and is the brain child of Leandro Fernandez and his partner Anais Bergues. In their words from their website they speak of the launch of their watches and the story behind it

‘Our logo - the phoenix - has been an integral part of that mission. The phoenix represents rebirth and new beginnings and this is what the last few years have been about for us - moving away from what makes us comfortable and taking risks. That is what Relio represents - the start of something new and not being afraid to take chances.’

Microbrand.Store class this watch as a;

'clean and perfectly balanced aesthetic'.

Editor's Pick

The Solstice in Teal, is one of the only colourways currently available on their site and is retailing for £313. This to me looks like a great field watch that can be worn in everyday use. The dial has a fume and sunburst effect which is quite popular but gives the Teal a nice pop. 

The anti-reflective coating will make it good for videos and photos, as will the scalloped area of the side case which has polishing, bead blasting and brushing.

The bracelet tapers really nicely. It's a solid H-link bracelet that tapers from 20mm to 16mm complete with screw pins. Not sure if you can change this to a leather strap or not but I prefer the bracelet on this model. 

I'm a fan of the dagger indices which are slightly larger but blunted on the  cardinal numbers. All the indices have a very prominent lume, the BGW9 Superluminova to be exact. For anyone looking to make their own Microbrand watch I recommend using some of the staples from this model. 

Especially the clasp which has is milled with button release and micro adjustments. The case back doesn't shy away from its Miyota Movement, nor is too showy. It's etched on the case back and the Miyota 9039 is a fine looking movement so no gripes there. 

Spec Details

• Movement: Miyota 9039

• Clasp: Milled with button release and micro adjustments

• Case back: Screw down with sapphire crystal for movement exhibition

Feedback from WatchChris on YouTube;

I think you are right to refer to the watch as "sports" rather than field. To me it looks like a great business/office watch. Really like the dagger indices. Looks smart in every way, and a great first effort from this microbrand. 

If anyone from Relio Watches is reading this and would like to send one on for review then please DM me on Instagram.