NOMOS Glashütte Ludwig 33 noirvsVario 1918 SG60 Merlion Trench

The NOMOS Glashütte Ludwig 33 noir is widely praised for its elegant, ultra-dressy Bauhaus design featuring Roman numerals and gold hands, its slim profile, and its value as an entry into in-house German watchmaking at $1,700. Owners appreciate the smooth manual wind movement, with some noting the availability of display case backs on other Ludwig models. However, the 33mm diameter may be considered diminutive by some, and the long lug-to-lug distance is a point of discussion, with owners split on whether it appears disproportionate on smaller wrists or contributes positively to the design by creating a gap between the dial and strap. One pre-owned example was noted to have slight marks on the bezel and case, with wear and creasing on the strap.

The Vario 1918 SG60 Merlion Trench is widely seen as a commemorative keepsake, particularly for those celebrating Singapore's 60th anniversary or born in 1965. Reviewers note its vibrant red enamel dial and 37mm steel case with fixed wire lugs, along with 100m water resistance. One owner reported the watch is "patina-ing well" after three years, and the Miyota 82S5 movement is considered a reliable, cost-effective base. Overall, owners and reviewers appreciate the Vario 1918 SG60 Merlion Trench as a unique souvenir and tribute piece, with its distinctive enamel dial being a key draw.