Why are we so obsessed with pandas? The Maven MUS Solar Chronograph

There is something undeniable in the watch world, when it comes to chronographs, the ones with a racing layout, makes us feel alive, that is for us watch nerds of course.

When wrist watches started to get marketed, diving was key, flying was a target and then, motor racing made it to the list, it was the pinnacle. Its main reason to exists was not to read the time but to register different events with the push of a button.

Then we go to the mechanics, you would think that chronographs are very complicated and they are. There is a lot of parts when it comes to the full mechanical ones  but there is a group of people that believe that simpler is better, enter Maven.

Maven is a brand that believes in a few key principles: an amazing case design with quality paired with a dial that it is easy to read, and state of the art movements. We are lucky to have one of their nicest pieces, something that we would love to own and that even better it has become a do it all watch.

If you are in the market for a chronograph that has great looks mixed with technology, this should be on the top of your list. Lets’ begin.

The specifications

A mechanical chronograph dimesions are bund to the movement architecture which means that thickness and size will be always an issue, but not here. The MUS is 40mm in diameter with a thickness of 13.2mm which is outstanding for this type of watch. Sustainability has become a key point of discussion lately, and with good reason, the sun is the best way to power many objects without producing more Co2. The Japanese solar power train in the MUS is something to admire, it is clean, it works with precision and ticks all the way.

Coming to the dial ,we can say that it is the main show. The ‘’panda’’ layout it’s really beautiful, a matte white dial with black subdials is the best way to ensure legibility. The contrast is outstanding as expected and the simplicity of the MUS design language completes a watch tat not only feels right but it also performs.

 There is quite a bit of information on the dial, but it is all well displayed. the Tri-Compax layout looks vintage but at the same time it has a modern minimalist feel giving us a watch that feels familiar, that it has always been here. The black writing highlights the well designed face, it has a sector dial dividing the time from the rest of the complication. There is minimal writing on the MUS, no branding, classy and well made.

The 2 part case case deservers a lot of attention, it is bead blasted with a bit of satin finishing. A great way to enjoy a chronograph that is not only sporty but also vintage looking. It feels special.

There is a lot of technology here, not only the subdial at 6 registers time but it also  has an indicator that showcases the power left on the watch, it is easy to operate and uncomplicated. The pushers are also in line with the overall desingn of the MUS, they have the same finishing giving easeness to grip with a great quality when action the start and stop buttons. They are smooth, very.

On the wrist

A 40mm watch feels easy on my 6.25 inch wrist. The design of the case is outstanding. As mentioned, there are only two parts in the case with the no bezel making the MUS more organic, a real threat.

The lugs are short with a distance under 47mm, perfect for small wrists. It is odd to wear a chronograph this thin, usually a 15mm tall its the expectation but with a solar movement Maven is getting everything right at this point.

Legibility is one of the key subjects for the MUS, the contrast given by the black against white is amazing, nothing disturbes that legibility and the sapphire crystal has enough AR coating to give even a clearer picture.

I wore the MUS chronograph everywhere, from the gym to casual environment it feels like a watch that can do it all, it looks great, robust and vintage at the same time.

The MUS comes with several straps options, ours came with a well made black leather strap, looks great and matches the subdials but this MUS, this chronograph, it is a strap monster. I’ve decided that a black nylon strap is good but a blue FMK rubber strap feel right at home, that said this watch could take anything.

Concluding thoughts

There are good watches and special ones. The MUS is one of those pieces that you want to take out and enjoy, an easy choice because you don’t have to set it, it has a movement that is ready to rock.

Another novelty from the MUS chronograph is that it comes in different variations. We have a more vintage look with red hands adding cream looks for into that modern design. Then, we have the sage composition, a green and washed out look that is probably one of my favorites.  Whichever version you choose, the MUS is a watch that would make you enjoy the chronograph genre without braking the bank.

This last part makes us go to the price bracket where the MUS is offered which is 280 GBP. In our books, this is something that is special, not only gives you that classic look of a more expensive watch but it also complies with what we watch nerds love, it is one of the best.

When you are in the market for a watch that is symmetrical, beautiful and affordable, Maven is quite of the best brands you can go for. Mechanical watches are great but a chronograph that can do 3 times the features and costs much less, are the one that I would stay with. This MUSt be something else.

For more information, please visit: mavenwatches.com/collections/mus-solar-chrono?srsltid=AfmBOoo9T4mcGayJHDwOPfMMyMg788aNiG8LIqLkH4cCB_7nm0w2PeNA

Technical Specifications

Watch Movement:

Japanese Solar Movement

Case Diameter:

40mm

Case Thickness:

13.2mm

Case Material:

316L Stainless Steel

Case Finish:

Matte

Case Color:

Silver

Glass:

Domed Sapphire Crystal Glass

Dial Color:

White

Strap Color:

Black

Strap Width:

20mm

Strap Material:

Genuine Leather Strap

Strap Buckle:

Stainless Steel

Quick Release Feature:

Yes

Water Resistance:

100m/10ATM

Weight:

71.2 g