Farer GMTvsPagani Design PD-1689

The Farer GMT Automatic is praised for its vibrant, legible sunburst dial and well-proportioned 39.5mm x 10mm case. Reviewers note the ETA 2893-2 movement as a good choice with hacking seconds and a 42-hour power reserve. The bronze crown, intended to develop a patina, is flagged as a potentially unpopular design element that some feel looks unfinished or out of place. Prices range from $1,425 to $2,150 AUD. Overall, reviewers find the Farer GMT Automatic offers good value for a GMT watch in its price segment, with the dial and case proportions being key strengths.

Owners widely praise the Pagani Design PD-1689 for its clean dial, minimal fluted bezel, and smooth case finishing, with sapphire crystal and 200m water resistance making it surprisingly wearable as a dress watch. The watch is considered well-executed for its price. A significant and recurring friction point is the tight lug design: standard straight springbars are difficult to fit, and owners report both leather and rubber straps remain in constant contact with the case, raising concerns about scratching; curved springbars are required. One owner also questioned the strap feel itself. Hand-to-index alignment is imprecise, and the dial lacks lume. Overall, the Pagani Design PD-1689 is valued for its clean aesthetics and finishing at the price, though the tight lug design and hand alignment are concrete trade-offs for those considering it.