Brewing Style: A Review of the Brew Metric Retro Dial.
In the ever-growing landscape of microbrand watchmaking, few names stir the cup quite like the New York-based Brew Watch Company. Founded by Jonathan Ferrer, the brand has fused the worlds of coffee and chronometry. Amongst all the offerings, the Brew Metric Retro Dial is a personal favourite of mine. This is a compact piece with bold choices that also infuses an espresso-toned character.
Brew’s watches are created with the coffee culture as their DNA. This is not only evident in their marketing but also in their intricate design. The Retro Dial is the perfect example of this. A matte- black dial adorned with bright, asymmetric subdials and a discreet coffee bean logo nods lovingly to espresso machines and café aesthetics. In a whimsical yet practical touch, the watch houses a yellow segment on the chapter ring to make the ideal 25-30 second espresso shot window.
With dimensions of 36mm wide, 41.5mm lug-to-lug, and 10.75mm thick, the Metric manages to be compact without being understated. The square stainless steel case, finished in fine brushing with polished bevels, wears larger thanks to its corner-to-corner length. The dial itself is a feast of contrasts. Lumed, mirror-polished indices, recessed silver subdials, and the embossed bean at 3 o’clock come together in a dance of form and functionality.
Powered by the Seiko VK68 mechaquartz movement, the Metric offers the visual sweep of a mechanical chronograph with the practicality of quartz. The integrated bracelet, tapering aggressively from 26mm to 16mm, is another highlight. Comprised of three segments rather than a single link, it strikes a balance between comfort and aesthetic polish, despite the occasional pinch and rattle. Quick-release tabs and an included sizing tool round out Brew’s user-friendly philosophy.
Brew hasn’t stopped at the Retro Dial. The recently launched Super Metric collection expands the visual palette with eye-catching dial options: Lumina Yellow, Electric Blue, Burnt Orange, and Royal Blue. These new iterations maintain the original Metric’s silhouette but push the retro aesthetic to vivid extremes. For many, the Burnt Orange model is an instant classic.
It’s a watch that dares to be different, combining clever design with heartfelt inspiration. In a market saturated with homage and repetition, Brew stands alone with its warm, caffeine-fueled creativity. It’s no surprise that once on the wrist, the Metric rarely wants to leave.
Whether you’re timing a perfect espresso or admiring its eccentric beauty, the Brew Metric is a keeper for today and for the long haul.