Review: Kenneth Cole MEN'S AUTOMATIC SKELETON WATCH BLACK STRAP KC1451


I'm aware a lot of the folks on the forum here aren't a huge fan of designer watches. I understand this and for good reason, fine watches should be made by companies that specialize in watches. That said, I was looking for an affordable skeleton and the look of this one really appealed to me. I figured I probably wouldn't get quality any less than that of a Chinese homage so I went ahead. I'm quite happy, $100 well spent in my eyes. Note: the Kenneth Cole also comes with a Chinese movement, but I figure it's quality assurance is at least that of a homage as the KC name does have something to maintain.

I figured I would share in case anyone else was considering the same or was just looking at options. I like the size of this watch. Width is about 40-41mm incl. crown, 48mm from tip of the top lug to bottom lug tip. The band is 22mm wide narrowing to 20mm. The case is a surprising 13mm thick, but it suits well. The view into the movement is terrific, the real selling point for me. Most of the components are visible without any extra cheesy metal bits and none of this comes at the cost of looking cheap or over busy. Best of all, the time is still really easily to read.

The self winding movement gives that subtle feedback characteristic of a mechanical watch. A subtle click or a faint vibration here or there. This is neither too loud nor does it move too much to be annoying. I also enjoy the manual wind option on the crown. The display back is alright but the detailing is boarders on cheesy IMO.

I'll be sure to update on how well it keeps time, the power reserve and how it holds up in general (i.e. crystal, stainless, leather etc.)

If you like the look of this watch, also consider the Eberle Narthex, it was the other watch I was considering at the time of purchase.

http://cgi.ebay.com/EBERLE-GENTS-NAR...QQcmdZViewItem