The last few years have seen the arrival of several UK watch companies, in general designing in the UK and manufacturing abroad. Farer is part of this trend, their attractive watches are made in Switzerland, designed in London and, named after British explorers, take their inspiration from celebrated wayfarers and seafarers.
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| Wearing the Farer Barnato GMT watch |
Some of these new watch companies have made the mistake of over-designing their products. Cluttered dials, ugly hands, massive cases and crowns make for unattractive timepieces. Farer haven't gone down this route. Their designs are classic, simple, very attractive and, at 39.5mm in diameter, haven't taken the over-sized option.
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| Farer Barnato GMT watch |
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| Farer Frobisher sub-dial watch |
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| Farer Johnson three hand watch |
Farer sent me the Barnato, from the GMT collection, to try out (top image, above). Its plain and minimalist design has drawn many positive comments. I've worn it for five weeks or so and in that time it's gained around a second; good accuracy from the Swiss-made Ronda quartz movement.
The case is a subtly brushed stainless steel and the vintage-style two-tone dial and hands are easily legible. The leather watch strap is a nice touch, fitting well with the watch's classic looks. A minor comment is that the 24 hour hand lags slightly behind the 12 hour time. This doesn't affect watch accuracy at all. [Edit: Farer have spoken to me and tell me that they have not seen this problem on any other watch. They are looking into it. Further edit: I've heard nothing more about this and my watch continues to have this, albeit minor, problem. If it concerns you, I suggest you check before purchasing the GMT watch].
The case is a subtly brushed stainless steel and the vintage-style two-tone dial and hands are easily legible. The leather watch strap is a nice touch, fitting well with the watch's classic looks. A minor comment is that the 24 hour hand lags slightly behind the 12 hour time. This doesn't affect watch accuracy at all. [Edit: Farer have spoken to me and tell me that they have not seen this problem on any other watch. They are looking into it. Further edit: I've heard nothing more about this and my watch continues to have this, albeit minor, problem. If it concerns you, I suggest you check before purchasing the GMT watch].
This watch has become a daily wear for me and is ideal for both casual and more formal wear. The GMT models are ideal for the traveller as you can keep track of time in another timezone with the independently adjusted 24 hour hand without having to stop the watch to alter the time.
Summary: nicely designed and reasonably-priced watches, designed in London, made in Switzerland. Watches come in three collections: the three-hand collection, one with a sub-dial and the GMT watch. Prices from £340 to £420 from Farer.
