Quick Summary: In this article, we’re reviewing the 38mm Classic
During my early teen years, I listened to a lot of hip hop and was obsessed with the brand, Tommy Hilfiger.
I wore the largest
These oversized garments were complemented by larger-than-necessary logos, sometimes plastered across the whole
This loud, in-your-face style was the look at the time (in the 90s, assuming you listened to hip hop).
Even though I feel a bit of nostalgia seeing these same styles trending again today (who knew?), my personal style is much the opposite of what it was 20 years ago.
- Instead of loud and vibrant colors, I prefer neutral and muted tones, and the occasional pop of color where appropriate.
- Rather than eye-catching and attention-grabbing details, I prefer things one can only appreciate up close, with a discerning eye and elevated taste.
- Instead of large and obvious logos, I prefer small, inconspicuous marks, or none at all.
And when it comes to
The Perfect Minimalist Timepiece
There are several characteristics that separate Linjer’s
Since the beginning, Linjer has always been about beautiful, minimalist design and thoughtful consideration of materials used in everything they create.
This thoughtfulness contributes to the timelessness of all their products, and their
Here’s what I noticed right off the bat:
The dial’s design details
The Classic model has a slightly concave outer edge with hour markers, and tonal circular minute markers. Both are subtle design details that elevate its visual interest without being in-your-face obvious.
Easy-to-change, vegetable-tanned, Italian leather straps
The full-grain leather straps will age nicely and develop a patina the more I use it (as all good leather does).
Best of all, the quick release tabs make switching them out for different colors so simple. No tools needed!
Domed sapphire crystal glass
This is the type of glass that covers a Linjer
I did a bit of research on
- acrylic (which is basically plastic),
- mineral glass (the most common),
- and sapphire crystal (the most desirable because of its scratch- and shatter-resistant qualities).
You should also consider if the glass is flat or domed, regardless of whether it is mineral glass or sapphire crystal. Domed glass will be much more shatter-resistant, and therefore, a domed sapphire (the kind Linjer uses) is the most shatter- and scratch-resistant option available.
Ronda 5 Series movement
This is essentially the motor of the
The lack of branding
Whenever you check your wrist for the time, you’re looking at a brand name. The positioning is so ubiquitous, you don’t even notice it on every one of your
The lack of a signature mark on the Linjer
You end up gazing at the face a beat or two longer. “What’s different about it?” you ask yourself. You have to stare, because, at first, you can’t figure it out.
The gorgeous symmetry, the clean lines, all undisturbed by logos or marks. Just you, the time, and the date.
Almost every accessory I own is conspicuously branded, which makes me appreciate this
Heft, weight, sturdiness
There’s a nice weight to this
With cheaper
My final thoughts on the Linjer Classic Watch
I’ve had my eye on the Linjer brand for a few years now. They have a very clean, understated aesthetic… very much in line with my own tastes. I love how they focus on simplistic design details and quality materials and construction.
Their latest line of
Want one of your own?
Here are a few things to keep in mind.
There are two models
The Classic Watch and the Minimalist Watch.
While the Minimalist model is beautiful as well, I prefer the styling of the Classic model (which is what you’re seeing in all the photos), and the brushed, stainless steel gunmetal finish toes the line between dress and casual really well.
There are two (or three) sizes
Linjer
Measure your wrist (printable size guide here) before picking one up for yourself. Mine is 6.5″ around. The 38mm fits perfectly.
The 41mm could’ve worked as well, but I prefer something smaller when it comes to a minimalist timepiece I plan on wearing for both formal and casual situations. If you prefer bigger
A selection of leather bands in several colors
If I were you, I’d pick up leather straps in all the colorways.
But in case you don’t need all three for your specific finish, at least pick up one in tan or brown, and the other in black leather. That way, you have all your bases covered when it comes to brown and black leather loafers and lace-ups.
Thanks to our friends at Linjer for being a part of this article, and thanks to you, dear reader, for supporting the brands that make EG possible.
Hilfiger images via Pinterest