The Vario 1918 Trench makes a distinctive case for its value with an enamel dial, sapphire crystal, Japanese automatic movement and period-inspired design. Whether it is a good buy depends on the current price and configuration—and on whether you are happy with its fixed wire lugs, which rule out ordinary two-piece straps.
What the Vario 1918 Trench is—and isn’t
Vario describes the 1918 Trench as a modern reimagining of a World War I trench watch, drawing on the visual language of early wristwatches. It is a contemporary watch, not an original military-issue antique. The brand’s history page offers its account of trench-watch design and wartime use; the design connection is best understood as inspiration rather than a claim that wristwatches were literally born in the trenches.
The look is the main point of distinction: a compact case, prominent numerals and hands, and a Bund-style strap option give it a more historically inflected character than a conventional everyday automatic. Monochrome Watches, in a review published November 11, 2020, called it “An affordable and cool take on an overlooked era of wristwatches.” That is one reviewer’s assessment, and the review predates the current product listing; it does not establish today’s price competitiveness.
What you get for the price
Vario’s current product page lists a 316L stainless-steel case, enamel dial, double-domed 2 mm sapphire crystal with inner anti-reflective coating, C3 lume, screw-down crown and Miyota 82S5 automatic movement. The movement is listed with hand-winding, hacking seconds, 21 jewels, a frequency of 21,600 beats per hour and more than 40 hours of power reserve. The manufacturer lists water resistance at 10 ATM. These are Vario’s specifications, not independent test results. See the official product listing for the selected configuration.
#1 Best Overall
- History in Your Hands - Wear a World War 2 Watch similar to that worn by soldiers during one of the humanity’s most trying times. The Flieger watches used by the Luftwaffe, the Third Reich´s air force, during WWII were an essential part of the equipment of the German bombers. Your watch is a connection to real lives and untold stories.
- Vintage Design combined with Modern Technology - This watch has a Highly Accurate Quartz Movement, three-hander with luminous hands, 42 mm wide round stainless-steel case with mineral crystal. This luxury piece has a water resistance of 10 ATM (means apron 100 meters waterproof for swimming or snorkeling).
- Designed by Experts - The watch has been designed to be as close as possible to the original watches used during the War. Faithful reflection of the original watch, the steel back cover and the side are engraved with the production and navigation codes of the original watch (FI 23883).
- Collector's edition - Expand your collection or historical display by adding similar watches to those operated (worn) by the real protagonists from all around the world during World War II. Each watch tells the story of a country's soldiers and the tragedy of war. Each of them corresponds to a limited series, of which only 500 units have been produced and engraved with the corresponding numbering (001/500, 002/500...).
- Gift Box Included - Receive your watch protected by a nice cloth watch pouch, which comes inside a luxurious box. Perfect to give as a pleasant surprise to a loved one. All package includes a brief description of the watch's history and technical features and the factory warranty.
The combination is appealing if you specifically want an automatic watch with sapphire, an enamel dial and a less common historical design. But materials and specifications alone do not settle value: the exact payable price, included strap, warranty terms and your willingness to live with the lug design all matter. No like-for-like current competitor pricing is established here, so a claim that it beats similarly priced watches would go too far.
Sizes, case materials and straps
Vario lists two case sizes. Both are 10 mm thick according to the brand. The 37 mm model has a 45 mm lug-to-lug measurement and 18 mm lug width; the 40 mm model measures 48 mm lug-to-lug with a 20 mm lug width. Those dimensions can help narrow the choice, but they cannot guarantee fit on a particular wrist.
Rank #2
- HISTORY IN YOUR HANDS | Wear a World War II–era watch inspired by those used by USAAF pilots during one of humanity’s most challenging periods. These aviation watches were essential tools in American aircraft, helping airmen navigate long missions. This watch connects you to real people, courage, and untold stories from history.
- VINTAGE DESIGN COMBINED WITH MODERN TECHNOLOGY - This watch has a Highly Accurate Quartz Movement, three-hander with luminous hands, 42 mm wide round stainless-steel case with mineral crystal. This luxury piece has a water resistance of 10 ATM (means apron 100 meters waterproof for swimming or snorkeling).
- DESIGNED BY EXPERTS – This watch has been created to closely reflect the original timepieces used by USAAF pilots during World War II. Faithful to the historic design, the steel case back IS engraved with period-style production and navigation markings inspired by original specifications.
- COLLECTOR'S EDITION - Expand your collection or historical display by adding similar watches to those worn by the real protagonists from all around the world during World War II. Each watch tells the story of a country's soldiers and the tragedy of war. Each of them corresponds to a limited series, of which only 500 units have been produced and engraved with the corresponding numbering (001/500, 002/500...).
- GIFT BOX INCLUDED - Receive your watch protected by a nice cloth watch pouch, which comes inside a luxurious box. Perfect to give as a pleasant surprise to a loved one. All package includes a brief description of the watch's history and technical features and the factory warranty.
| Case size | Lug-to-lug | Lug width | Listed thickness |
|---|---|---|---|
| 37 mm | 45 mm | 18 mm | 10 mm |
| 40 mm | 48 mm | 20 mm | 10 mm |
The model history also identifies steel and brass case versions. Vario says the brass develops patina with wear and can be polished back to a golden sheen. Check the chosen listing carefully: case material, dial, lume and strap can vary by version.
Fixed wire lugs limit strap choice
The wire lugs are part of the watch’s character, but they change the practicalities of ownership. The Time Bum’s review of the 37 mm model describes solid wire lugs and notes: “Solid wires also mean that you cannot fit a conventional two-piece strap.” In practice, look for a pass-through strap or one with securing tabs, and match its width to the case: 18 mm for the 37 mm version or 20 mm for the 40 mm version. Width alone is not enough; the strap must also be made for fixed-lug construction.
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Rank #3
- Men's luxury timepieces with technical advancements and a sporty style
- 1/5 Second Chronograph Measures up to 60 Minutes, 12/24 Hour Time, Date
- Silver-Tone Stainless Steel 42mm Case
- Luminous Hands and Markers and Mineral Crystal
- 100 Meters Water Resistant and 5 Year Limited Warranty
Vario’s current product page pairs the watch with a Crazy Horse leather Bund strap and also describes a single-pass option, with multiple strap colors listed. The Time Bum reviewer said the 37 mm watch felt “perfect” on their 6.75-inch wrist, particularly on the supplied Bund strap. That is a personal fit impression, not a general sizing guarantee. Confirm the exact strap included with the specific version you intend to buy.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Price and purchase terms need a live check
At the time the official product page was accessed in 2026, it displayed “Sale price $388.00 USD” alongside “Regular price $368.00 USD”—an internally inconsistent pair of figures. Neither should be treated as a dependable current price. Check the live checkout or ask Vario for the price of the exact configuration before deciding whether the watch offers value.
Rank #4
- VINTAGE DOCTOR STYLE CASE — Iconic contoured rectangular case inspired by classic 1920s physician timepieces, delivering old-world elegance and a truly distinctive wrist presence
- RECTANGULAR CASE — Luxurious 14K gold plating / silver plating delivers a rich, lasting shine and luster that resists tarnishing and deterioration, maintaining its brilliance for years to come
- ARABIC NUMERAL DIAL WITH SECONDS SUBDIAL — Bold easy-to-read Arabic numerals paired with a dedicated seconds subdial for a sophisticated, vintage complication
- GENUINE CALFSKIN LEATHER STRAP — Soft premium calfskin leather band with croc embossing and secure buckle clasp for a comfortable, refined all-day fit
- PERFECT GIFT & UNMATCHED SERVICE — Arrives in a beautiful gift box ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays, backed by complimentary battery replacement and unmatched after-sale customer support
The product page lists a two-year international warranty and a 14-day return policy, and says express shipping is free to most countries. Duties and taxes may be payable by the customer, with some country exceptions. These terms can change and depend on destination, so verify the current policy and landed cost for your address before ordering.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 1. Imported Technology and highest standards of craftsmanship
- 2. Handmade natural wood material make the watch smooth and comfortable to wear; Black Chronograph and date display Dial; Folding clasp with safety; Adjustable wrist band comes with free fix tool
- 3. Style: Fashion, Retro Army Military Sport and Classic Wristwatch. Natural Wood Material -- Non-toxic and hypo-allergenic
- 4. BOBO BIRD Watch is Packed with Original Unique Bamboo Wooden Gift Box, Which is the Great and Decent Present for Friends, Lovers,Relatives and Best Gift for Xmas,Graduation,Wedding and Anniversary.
- 5. 100% Guaranty & High Quality Service -- Lifetime Before and after-sale service & BOBO BIRD Manufacture Warranty. BOBO BIRD is always there and be with you.
Who is likely to value it?
- A strong match: You want a modern automatic with a trench-watch aesthetic, value the listed enamel dial and sapphire crystal, and are comfortable choosing a strap designed for fixed wire lugs.
- Think carefully: You routinely swap conventional two-piece straps, need a universally easy-to-fit everyday watch, or are comparing purchases primarily on current price. First confirm the payable amount, exact bundle and compatible replacement-strap options.
- Consider the brass version for its character: Patina is an expected part of that case material’s appeal, according to Vario, rather than a finish that stays unchanged.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
