I recently discovered the brand Benlydesign And, as a huge fan of unusual watches, I immediately began my personal quest to get my hands on one of their models. Those of you who follow this website know that I almost always talk about Nothing, But from time to time I allow myself the luxury of analyzing products from other brands that have an essence, an originality or a peculiarity that reminds me of the brand. Carl Pei. I published the camera review Kodak Charm, A keychain that takes really charming photos. I'd even say they're products that generate the same interest, feeling, and visual appeal for me. Browsing their catalog, I stumbled upon my instant favorite: the Benlydesign S3000.
It's a strange device, very strange. One of those products that, like Nothing, you either love or hate because of its appearance. If your intention is to go unnoticed, I can assure you that with this model you won't achieve it. In the few weeks I've worn it, it's been a constant topic of conversation with friends, family, and even numerous strangers who couldn't resist asking me if what I'm wearing on my wrist is really a watch.
The concept of a "driver's watch" and its seventies inspiration
The design of the Benlydesign S3000 draws directly from the so-called 1970s driver's watches, like the famous Amida Digitrend or the Bulova Computron. The peculiarity of this concept is that the screen is not located on the top, but on the side of the wrist.
They're called "driver's watches" because, when you're driving with your hands on the wheel, you don't need to turn your arm to check the time, as the screen is positioned directly in front of your eyes. It's a classic yet effective idea that completely breaks with tradition.
Cyberpunk aesthetics and Nothing-style transparencies
Its appearance brilliantly blends 1970s technology with a modern cyberpunk aesthetic. The design is divided into two parts, separating the visual elements from the time display to create a futuristic, layered effect.
Undoubtedly, its great visual appeal lies in its partially transparent window It offers a view of the internal chip and digital circuitry. To be honest, I'm not entirely convinced it's actually the chip that powers the clock, and I'm more inclined to think it's purely decorative, but these Nothing-style transparencies really suit it. It also features three lights that illuminate the chip area when the button is pressed or on the hour. This looks especially striking at night, as they flash five times in two or three seconds.
Construction quality and technical specifications
The watch is very well built, feels heavy in the hand, and conveys a great sense of robustness. It has a finish of brushed steel which suits him perfectly and gives him a rather premium look.
If we look at the raw data from its technical specifications, we find a case manufactured in zinc alloy with dimensions of 45 x 39.9 mm and a considerable thickness of 19 mm. The total weight of the set is 120 grams. The case back and strap are made of stainless steel, the crystal is mineral, and it has a water resistance of 3 ATM (30 meters). In other words, the watch can withstand splashes and little else; I don't recommend swimming with it. In fact, I recommend taking it off when showering so the materials don't degrade over time.
Ergonomics and the risks of exposed lateral movement
The screen is protected by mineral glass, which should save it from minor everyday mishaps. Luckily, I haven't dropped it yet, and it doesn't have any scratches, but I wouldn't be surprised if its brushed steel body could get marked easily if you're not careful.
Due to its very particular position on the side of the wrist, This area is the most exposed to receiving accidental blows. with the rubbing against doors or walls in everyday life, so it's advisable to be a little careful when wearing it.
An adjustable strap, but with sacrifices
Regarding the steel bracelet, it has a very good advantage, which is that it is adjustable for wrists between 10 and 22 cm, Anyone can use it immediately without having to remove or add links at a watchmaker. The strap width varies between 18 and 22 mm and is fully replaceable.
On the negative side, I must say that It's not the most comfortable strap in the world When putting it on, you have to get the hang of knowing exactly where on the links to tighten the clasp so it's completely secure and doesn't come undone. Also, if you have a lot of arm hair, the bracelet might pinch you occasionally as hairs get caught between the links.
Digital functions and complete power-off mode
The Benlydesign S3000 comes equipped with several practical features for everyday use: dual time, alarm, stopwatch, countdown timer, 12 and 24 hour modes, and automatic calendar until the year 2099.
By default, the screen will always be off. To see the time, we must press the right button to display the information for a few seconds. We can also activate automatic activation by turning the screen on our wrist; I will discuss this function in more detail later.
It also hides a very interesting option for managing your battery's energy CR2032, which promises an extended duration of up to 18 months. If If you hold down both physical buttons for several seconds, the watch will turn off completely.. This is perfect if you're going to be away from it for a long time to prevent the battery from running out. However, there's a catch: when you turn it back on, it will have its settings completely reset, and you'll have to re-enter the time, date, and alarms from scratch.
The digital thermometer and its calibration
The watch also includes a digital thermometer among its features. As is common with these types of wrist devices, the initial temperature reading is skewed, as it's a combination of your body heat and the ambient temperature.
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If you want to give it a practical and real use, You must take your watch off your wrist and wait a few minutes so that the sensor indicates the actual ambient temperature. At least one advantage of the configuration software is that it allows you to calibrate it by assigning a series of degrees above or below the setpoint to try to correct the deviation and make the measurement more reliable while you use it.
The trick to mastering the "turn to activate" screen system
Another of its standout features is the "raise/twist to wake" system. Holding down the SET button for several seconds activates this feature, which theoretically turns on the OLED screen when you rotate your wrist between 40 and 60 degrees.
I've read many people on social media saying it doesn't work for them, and the truth is, there's a trick to it. For it to respond correctly, You must make the wrist movement and, immediately afterwards, leave your arm completely still for about a second. My personal recommendation is to rotate the watch so that it's completely horizontal, or even with the screen pointing very slightly downwards; pausing briefly after the movement usually works very well. Once you activate this function, it remains active for 12 hours and then automatically deactivates to save battery.
OLED screen: impressive but invisible in sunlight
The high-brightness panel offers vibrant contrast and exceptional clarity indoors, perfectly mimicking the style of digital displays of yesteryear. However, one of its clear weaknesses must be addressed: its brightness outdoors.
The screen's brightness is very limited in daylight.. If you want to check the time in bright sunlight, it's going to be practically impossible without casting a shadow on the screen with your other hand. That's the price you pay for maintaining that authentic retro look.
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Shipping experience
Before buying it, I looked at dozens of reviews because I was a bit worried that the product wouldn't be good enough or wouldn't have a good finish for the price. In my case, the shipping to Barcelona It took about 14 days after I made the purchase, The entire tracking and delivery process was flawless. However, the metallic-looking case that contained the watch arrived with a few minor dents.
If it caught your eye instantly, it's your watch
In my opinion, it's a fantastic watch and I'm delighted with the purchase. The Benlydesign S3000 watch can usually be found (when stock is available, as it's been selling out fast lately) for approximately 100-120 euros, Its price is infinitely lower than the thousands of euros that the original 1970s collector's items it's inspired by cost. This product prioritizes aesthetics, its spectacular nature, and its style over pure comfort or functional perfection. If you fell in love with it at first sight upon learning of its existence, as I did, rest assured you won't be disappointed.
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