Reviewing the D1 Milano Sketch
When I first came across the D1 Milano Polycarbon Sketch, I was instantly captivated by its unique design. The black version of the Sketch that I own has a minimalist yet striking aesthetic. Its matte black finish, coupled with broad white strokes on the dial, gives it an almost two-dimensional appearance that messes with your depth perception. It's like wearing a piece of modern art on my wrist, and I love the quirky, sketch-like effect.
One of the first things I noticed was how lightweight and comfortable the watch is. Made from polycarbonate with a soft-touch coating, it feels almost toy-like when you pick it up, but don’t let that fool you. Despite its lightness, the watch is surprisingly durable and has held up well to daily wear- a great beater for everyday wear.
The dial of the Sketch is a minimalist's dream. The matte black surface with its rough white sketches and skeleton hands provides a unique look that's both simple and intriguing. While it lacks lume and minute markers, the Seiko VJ21 quartz is a solid movement.
The ultra-thin profile of the watch is another highlight. At just 8.8mm thick, it sits comfortably on my wrist without feeling bulky. The integrated bracelet starts wide at 27mm and tapers down to 19mm, which conforms nicely to my wrist shape. It has a Royal Oak-esque sport look that stands out as sophisticated and edgy.
One of the features I appreciate is the water resistance rating of 5 ATM. While I wouldn’t take it swimming, it’s nice to know it can handle a bit of rain or accidental splashes. It’s reassuring to have that level of durability in a watch that's more about style than sport (again, great beater watch).
The crown, case back, and clasp are PVD coated steel, adding a touch of robustness to the design. The integrated bracelet does mean there’s limited flexibility in the first link, but for my average-sized wrist, it sits just right. Larger or smaller wrists might experience some fit issues, but for me, it’s been comfortable.
I can't ignore the white variant of the Sketch, even though I don't own it. Its black-on-white design is equally striking and maintains the same artistic illusion. If the black version is a bit too subtle for you, the white variant might be the perfect fit, offering an even bolder statement.
There are a few things I wish were different, like an automatic movement and a sapphire crystal for added durability. Minute markers would also help with precise time-setting (though perhaps at the expense of the minimalist dial and unique design). But honestly, these are minor gripes for a watch that’s so affordable and unique.
In conclusion, the D1 Milano Polycarbon Sketch has become one of my favorite pieces for its quirky design and comfortable fit. It’s not perfect, but its imperfections are part of what makes it charming. If you’re looking for a distinctive, affordable watch that stands out from the crowd, the Sketch is definitely worth considering.
