For a year, adding a Quartz watch to my collection was always on my to-do list, but it frequently took a backseat to other priorities. Whether it was the allure of a bargain Alpinist or simply the abundance of watches I already owned, a Quartz dress watch seemed like a distant goal. That is, until my friend sent me the James Mccabe Heritage 1019-02, marking my debut with a Quartz dress watch. Exciting times ahead!
James Mccabe: A Legacy of Tradition
James Mccabe, the brand behind this timepiece, has a rich history. Founded by James Mccabe, who was the son of renowned Irish watchmaker Patrick Mccabe, the brand has been around since 1775. James moved to London, where his legacy continued through his sons. This storied past adds a layer of appreciation to owning a piece from James Mccabe.
Day-by-Day Impressions
Monday: The First Encounter
I received the J.M Heritage late in the afternoon and was eager to test it out. The watch exemplifies the classic dress watch look:
Size and Fit: The 38mm diameter is ideal for both suits and casual shirts. The beige dial, framed by a subtle metal ring, strikes a balance between traditional gold and stark white. Classic Roman numerals add to its charm.
Case and Strap: The steel case features a laser-engraved JM logo on the buckle. Although the back is plain (due to its Quartz nature), the hand-stitched black leather strap is durable and accommodates most wrist sizes.
Movement and Features: Equipped with a Japanese Miyota movement, the watch includes a useful "hacking function" for precise time-setting. The domed crystal is a standout feature, adding to its elegance.
Setting the time was smooth, but finding the crown's second notch for time adjustment was awkward, with the date set at the first notch. The small JM logo on the crown adds a nice touch.
Tuesday: Styling and Function
Pairing the J.M Heritage with my favorite black monkstrap shoes felt incredibly stylish. The dial’s design, reminiscent of mechanical watches, is visually appealing. The date window, located at 6 o'clock, and the 24-hour dial at 9 o'clock add functional elements, though the date window is small and hard to read. Note: the watch lacks lume, so checking the time in the dark was not an option.
Wednesday: Attention to Detail
During lunch, I noticed a speck of dust inside the crystal, which was surprising given the meticulous assembly expected from the brand. The second hand's slight misalignment and the crystal's plasticky feel were minor issues. The hands’ width made them occasionally blend, impacting readability.
Thursday: Comfort and Fit
The thickness of the J.M Heritage caused discomfort when buttoning my sleeve cuffs while wearing a suit. Its flat case back and lugs, combined with the watch’s thickness, made it less ideal for dress attire compared to Japanese brands with more wrist-friendly designs.
Friday: A Return to Mechanical
Switching back to a mechanical watch, the Orient Blue Mako felt significantly heavier and more substantial on my wrist. The difference in weight between mechanical and Quartz watches was noticeable, with the Mako's steel bracelet adding extra heft.
Saturday: Final Thoughts
Here’s a summary of my week with the James Mccabe Heritage 1019-02:
Aesthetic Appeal: It has a distinctly Western elegance, easily mistaken for higher-end brands like Hamilton or Frederique Constant.
Accuracy and Function: The timekeeping is impressive with a deviation of ±2 seconds per week, though the crown could be more user-friendly.
Weight and Build: The watch’s light weight and plasticky crystal require extra care. Its appearance is elegant, but its thickness might not suit everyone.
At approximately 6 million VND (180 GBP), the J.M Heritage 1019-02 is a solid choice if you appreciate a Quartz watch with a dressy flair. It’s not every day you find a Quartz watch that competes with the charm of a mechanical one.
HELHIND
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