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

There is something undeniable when it comes to chronographs watches and it is that racing ones which have the coolest layout for us nerds.

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

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

Maven is a brand that believes in simple principles: an amazing case design with quality with a dial that it is easy to read, here are the first ethos. We are lucky to have one of their nicest pieces, something that we would love to own or even better, a do it all watch.

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

The specifications

A mechanical chronograph is bund to the movement architecture which means that thickness and size will be 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. The Japanese solar movement in the MUS is something to admire, it is clean, it works and ticks all the way.

Coming to the dial we can say that this 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 as expected and the legibility is assures on a watch tat not 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 looks like nothing else. 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 and branding, classy and well made.

The case deservers a lot of attention as it is bead blasted with a bit of satin finishing, quite a nice 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. Everything easy to use via the pushers which have a great quality when action, the start and stop are smooth, very.

On the wrist

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

The lugs are short with a distance under 47mm, perfect for all we need in a small wrist. It is odd to wear a chronograph this thin, usually a 14mm tall its expected but the solar movement 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 could be added on top of it but 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, classy 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 watch 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, 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.

One of the highlights of the MUS from Maven is that it comes in different variations. We have a more vintage look-red hands chronograph which adds cream looks for a more modern watch. Then, we have the sage composition, green and washed out 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 outstanding.

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, are the one that I would stay with, this MUS is 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