Oak & Oscar The Humboldt ExP-02vsVario Empire Art Nouveau Handwound

Oak & Oscar The Humboldt ExP-02 is a 39.5mm stainless steel tool watch featuring a unique, layered aluminum "ghost dial" for legibility and 200m water resistance, powered by a Sellita SW300 movement. Its appeal is limited by a US$2,550 price and an extremely limited production of 20 pieces, with its experimental dial construction done in Chicago. Overall, reviewers highlight the endearing dial and in-house bezel production as key features of the Oak & Oscar Humboldt ExP-02.

Owners widely praise the Vario Empire Art Nouveau Handwound for its detailed, multi-layered dial featuring applied numerals and guilloche patterns, its elegant Art Deco-inspired design, and the enjoyable winding feel of the Miyota 6T33 handwound movement, often visible through an exhibition case back. The 38mm case size is considered a positive by many, and the included leather strap is noted for its comfort and quality. Some owners find the differing fonts on the sub-dials and perimeter less appealing, and the absence of a constant seconds sub-dial is flagged as a drawback. On balance, owners rate the Vario Empire Art Nouveau Handwound highly for its distinctive Art Deco styling and detailed dial at its price point.