Around a decade ago, prior to the widespread use of the term “microbrand,” I welcomed Lum-Tec watches into my collection, marking their debut in my assortment. Although it was acquired through a trade, my enthusiasm for this timepiece was undeniable. Perhaps my connection to the brand’s Ohio roots, coinciding with my residence in the same region since the mid-aughts, played a role. Alternatively, it could be attributed to the shared passion for luminescence within the watch enthusiasts’ community. Regardless, over the years, I found myself the proud owner of several Lum-Tec watches.
However, in recent times, my attention has waned, possibly due to the influx of competitors in the market. Nevertheless, my curiosity was reignited when a friend proposed a trade involving one of Lum-Tec’s newer models. Eager to discover the brand’s latest endeavors, I agreed without hesitation.
There was a minor caveat, though. The timepiece in question belonged to Lum-Tec’s quartz collection, specifically the Vortex series. I was presented with the D2 model, featuring stylish yellow accents. Its aesthetic appeal was evident in the photographs, and the practicality of its solar-powered functionality intrigued me. Thus, I resolved to explore this new addition to my collection.
First Impressions
In addition to its self-sustaining power and absence of the need for winding or battery replacements, the solar-powered Vortex offers an unexpected advantage in its dial design. Depending on the lighting conditions, the dial exhibits a captivating transformation, transitioning from a lustrous black shade to a rich, deep purple hue. Furthermore, the dial possesses a visually appealing sense of depth within the case, enhanced by the presence of a thick internal bezel and a gracefully curved sapphire crystal, creating the illusion of a profound recess.
Upon closer examination, particularly under bright lighting, one can discern the discrete segments of the solar panel integrated into the timepiece. The Seiko VS42A movement, while commendable retaining its date functionality, unfortunately suffers from a minor drawback. The numerals on the date disc are regrettably difficult to discern, presenting a missed opportunity for Lum-Tec to incorporate an intriguing element, such as a subtly faded or ghosted date display, without compromising the watch’s sleek aesthetic. In full disclosure, as a self-proclaimed enthusiast, I found myself compelled to painstakingly adjust the almost unreadable date to the correct number, showcasing my unabashed nerdy side.
On the wrist
With its compact lugs and 42mm size, the Vortex watch is highly wearable. Its sleek dark gray hue, referred to as “Military grade Titanium Carbide gunmetal tone PVD hard coating,” along with its thick, rounded bezel, visually reduces its presence on the wrist. The shorter lugs contribute to its overall comfortable feel, and weighing in at 104g with the included strap, it is pleasantly lightweight.
Lum-tec promotes a case thickness of 12mm, although when considering the domed crystal, the watch measures 13.5mm in total. While not particularly slim, it remains suitable for everyday wear, especially if you replace the standard pass-through strap with a two-piece option like the Ridge Rubber showcased here.
Speaking of the strap, the provided one is a standard nylon “Military style strap with matched gunmetal PVD hardware,” measuring 1.3mm in thickness. It incorporates three metal ring keepers, resembling a zulu-style strap. It complements the watch nicely, although I have experimented with various other straps during my time wearing it.
The Lume
Lum-Tec incorporates its proprietary MDV technology along with X1 grade Super-Luminova on the Vortex D2 timepiece. The hour markers emit a vibrant green glow, while the three hands, as well as the minutes 20 through 55 on the bezel, emanate a captivating blue luminescence. During the day, the initial 15 minutes of the bezel display a yellow hue, transitioning to a green glow at night.
Although the lume possesses an alluring quality and is aesthetically pleasing, particularly when paired with one of our new Luminous Watch Straps, it may not be as radiant as some other watches I have owned. It is plausible that the challenge lies in applying lume to a solar panel. Given the brand’s association with “Lum” in its name, I had anticipated a slightly brighter outcome.
My primary concern regarding legibility, however, pertains to the hands. Despite X1 being renowned for its superior lume capabilities, it is solely applied in small strips at the center of the broad, dark-colored hands. A larger luminescent surface would have significantly enhanced readability, regardless of the time of day.
The Case
The case’s alluring dark gray hue immediately caught my attention, particularly when paired with the distinct helical-cut design adorning the bezel and crowns. Surprisingly, this timepiece possesses dual crowns, even though Lum-Tec doesn’t explicitly promote it as a diver’s watch. Nevertheless, it fulfills all the necessary criteria for diving. One notable feature is the locking uni-directional bezel, which is quite exceptional, especially considering the watch’s price range. Adjusting it required a slight maneuver in either direction, but aligning it precisely at 12 o’clock was a breeze, and once secured, it remained steadfast. Its aesthetic appeal is undeniably remarkable as well!
Movement
The Vortex D2 timepiece incorporates an innovative Seiko VS42A movement that harnesses the power of sunlight. Merely a minute of exposure to sunlight generates a full day’s worth of power, and a mere 5 hours of sunlight can provide six months of uninterrupted operation. Even individuals with an extensive watch collection can effortlessly ensure its continuous functioning by exposing it to sufficient light. However, in the event of insufficient light, the second hand will maintain a 2-second interval beat to indicate low charge.
Furthermore, the movement of the Vortex D2 is securely housed within the case, fortified with an anti-shock system. Its impressive precision boasts an accuracy rating of +/- 20 seconds per month.
Conclusion
Weigan Custom Watch, the parent company of Lum-Tec, proudly emphasizes that the creation of the Lum-Tec brand was intended to exhibit its exceptional ability to manufacture distinctive timepieces for diverse clientele. This profound capability resonates throughout the intricate details of the Vortex watch.
Although the price tag of $585 may initially appear steep for a 3-hand quartz watch, it is justified by the incorporation of exclusive features and enhanced specifications. These notable elements encompass an internal ratcheting bezel, cutting-edge military-grade technologies and finishes, Viton seals, and an anti-shock mounting system. Additionally, the brand offers complimentary lifetime pressure testing and seal cleaning services.
Moreover, the watch’s allure is further enhanced by the fact that it was meticulously designed, hand-assembled, and rigorously tested in Ohio. Consequently, it emerges as an enticing everyday timepiece, ready to be effortlessly worn on any occasion.