Something that is fundamental to my watch fandom is the simple principle that watches should be fun. As with any other enthusiast driven pursuit, there are corners of this hobby that are taken very seriously. You know what I?m talking about. Internet forums where brands are mocked. Instagram takedowns of potentially sketchy vintage resellers. A culture of constant acquisition and the preening and peacocking that goes along with it. All of these things, in a high enough dosage, can sap the fun right out of watch collecting. 

That?s not to say that there shouldn?t be watches to aspire to as a collector, or that we shouldn?t look at vintage watches with some healthy skepticism. Sometimes, though, it?s just nice to be reminded of the joy of discovery, to look at your wrist and smile. And at a time when there seems to be a premium placed on watches as tools within a specific niche, it?s refreshing to see interesting designs that are colorful and show the hand of an artist. How many of us need a helium escape valve, or a watch made to fighter pilot specs" 
$175

Hands On with the S? Labs Layer 1

Case
Arcylic

Movement
Miyota Quartz

Dial
Various

Lume
None

Lens
Sapphire

Strap
Suede

Water Resistance
3 ATM

Dimensions
38 x 45mm

Thickness
10mm

Lug Width
20mm

Crown
Push/pull

Warranty
Yes

Price
$175

S? Labs is a new Chicago based brand making design-forward watches that you absolutely should not take diving. You a...