Though I knew I’d like this watch given that I was very sold on the Gimlet, the Manhattan was the first of the series that I’ve been able to get my hands on, and I wasn’t prepared for just how much I’d love it. The Brunswick case is nearly perfect on my smaller wrist, with short lugs yet a very substantial wrist presence, thanks to that cushion case. And though I typically remove the straps that come with new watches and replace them with ones from the collection I’ve amassed over the years (RIP, Hodinkee Shop), the brown leather strap on the Manhattan, made by British strapmaker The Strap Tailor, is perfect for it. If I bought the Manhattan, it would certainly stay on this strap.
However, the most exciting part of this watch is undoubtedly its dial. I appreciate that they didn’t just opt for a different colored gradient on the sequel, but rather an execution that does feel more fitting to this dial’s namesake. If the dial of the Gimlet is light, fresh, and sweet, the dial of the Manhattan is much more intense.