Ahead of the launch of the new stone dial editions of Maen’s Manhattan 37 Ultra-Thin, I got to test drive the Obsidian Snowflake variation. This was my first time seeing one of the models from the collection in the metal in addition to previewing one of the new dial materials. While stone dials have been used in watchmaking for decades and aren’t an entirely novel trend, I do feel they’ve been a bit overdone. However, I tried to put aside my eye roll for yet another stone dial and appreciate what’s interesting about these particular executions. So, here are my hot takes after going hands on.
First off, I have to give the brand credit for the choice of the stones for the collection, which are relatively unique. Instead of the typical trifecta of tiger’s eye, lapis lazuli, and malachite, Maen has opted for onyx, golden swan, and obsidian snowflake. While onyx is another mainstay, you can’t go wrong with the classic look of an all-black dial, this time with a stone twist. Moving on, I’ll admit even as the resident woo-woo girl, I was not too familiar with golden swan. Even though I didn’t see this one in person, the photos look gorgeous – the mix of rust and black give the same versatile look as your go-to tortoise shell sunglasses. This variant seems like it would literally go with everything and make a great daily wear.
Saving the obsidian snowflake for last, this stone is perhaps the most artful and offbeat of the lot. If you’re a person who loves neutrals but wants to switch things up from traditional solid color dials in black, silver, white, and so on, this could be a great option to add a piece with visual interest to your collection. In my opinion, this dial also elevates the Manhattan 37 Ultra-Thin the most of the three from a somewhat casual stainless steel integrated bracelet watch to something that could be dressed up or down.
Each dial execution allows the stone to take center stage with a minimalist layout, featuring a new pencil-style handset that gives the watch a sharper and more refined appearance while further enhancing the pure and elegant look of the dial.
Maen’s particular case design of the Manhattan 37 Ultra-Thin also contributes to elevating the aesthetic a notch above a standard round or octagonal construction of a sport watch. I’m not sure why rectangular cases exude a dressier wrist presence, but they definitely tend toward a more refined look, even when paired with a bracelet. Here, it’s not only the shape but also the thin profile that make this watch chic. These proportions are made possible thanks to the La Joux Perret D101 manual-wind movement, which allowed for a 24% reduction in case-thickness, down from 9.3mm to 7.1mm. This caliber is visible through the exhibition caseback, showcasing the blued screws and precise Cotes de Geneve finishing.
Even if I’m not itching to add a stone dial to my collection, I can objectively say these are an interesting take on the trend. Speaking to the Manhattan 37 Ultra-Thin more broadly, the case and bracelet are well executed, particularly for this price point. The size, shape, and proportions lay nicely on the wrist and feel accessible for a variety of wrist sizes. The bracelet in particular is often a sticking point for me with more attainably priced watches, sometimes feeling like an afterthought and all attention being poured into the case and dial. Here, the quality feels consistent in every detail.
Each of the new stone dials join Maen’s permanent collection with 100 pieces per color directly available at launch. Once those initial batches sell out, the remaining stock will transition to a pre-order model. The models are priced at $1,619 and go on sale August 28. For more information, head over directly to Maen.