The RZE Urbanist is a compact, solar-powered quartz field watch with a 36 mm Grade 2 titanium case, sapphire crystal and 100 m water resistance. Its reported 42 mm lug-to-lug length and 18 mm strap width are useful fit details; its Miyota solar movement is designed to reduce routine battery changes. This hands-on-style overview is based on published specifications and manufacturer information, not personal wear or testing.
What the RZE Urbanist is
The Urbanist is a time-only field watch powered by a Miyota solar quartz movement. Fratello Watches’ April 19, 2024 introduction describes a Grade 2 titanium case, sapphire crystal with inner anti-reflective coating, luminous hands and indices, and a nylon pass-through strap. A retailer listing also identifies the movement as Miyota Solar Quartz and gives a 42 g weight including the strap. These are published specifications, not independently measured results.
How large is the Urbanist?
| Specification | Reported value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Case diameter | 36 mm | Fratello Watches, April 19, 2024; Lug to Lug Watches listing, accessed October 7, 2026 |
| Lug-to-lug | 42 mm | Fratello Watches, April 19, 2024; Lug to Lug Watches listing, accessed October 7, 2026 |
| Case thickness | 11 mm | Fratello Watches, April 19, 2024 |
| Strap width | 18 mm at the lugs | Fratello Watches, April 19, 2024; Lug to Lug Watches listing, accessed October 7, 2026 |
| Buckle width | 16 mm | Lug to Lug Watches listing, accessed October 7, 2026 |
| Weight | 42 g including strap | Lug to Lug Watches listing, accessed October 7, 2026 |
The 36 mm diameter and 42 mm length give a sense of the watch’s footprint, while the 18 mm lug width identifies a common search category for replacement straps. Before ordering one, confirm the strap’s lug fit, length, construction and buckle width; no particular aftermarket strap or bracelet has been verified as compatible.
Movement and charging
The Urbanist uses a Miyota solar-powered quartz movement. A retailer product description and Fratello’s article report that as little as 10 seconds of charging can start the movement. That is a reported start-up claim, not a promise of full recharge time or operating duration. The RZE FAQ does not establish a full-charge runtime figure for this model, so a specific runtime cannot be stated here.
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- All-Black Slip-Thru Style: A black fabric slip-thru strap matches the black resin case and black dial for a clean, all-black look that suits daily outdoor wear
- Solar Powered: Charged by any light source with a four-month power reserve, this outdoor solar watch runs on natural energy and stays ready for the next adventure
- Black Resin Case: A black resin case and black dial give this analog solar watch a clean, rugged look, and the fabric slip-thru strap is made for easy on and off
- Adventure-Ready Style: Inspired by the northern edge of the U.S. Rockies, this solar field watch is a companion well-built for the outdoors
- Built to Last: A Timex watch is designed for durability and everyday reliability; every piece reflects our commitment to quality without compromise
Water resistance and crown
Fratello lists 100 m water resistance; the Lug to Lug listing gives 100 m/10 ATM. These are the published ratings, not a claim about testing an individual watch. Fratello’s article body initially describes a push-down crown, but an editor’s note clarifies that production watches use a push-in crown, updated from a screw-down design; the note says the change did not affect the 100 m rating. Do not confuse the push-in crown with the screw-in caseback.
What the warranty covers
RZE’s FAQ says: “Selected for its maintenance free reliability, the Miyota Solar Movement in the Urbanist and the Digital Module in UTD is guaranteed for life against defects and malfunction.” The FAQ immediately adds that battery changes are not included. This lifetime coverage applies to defects and malfunction of the named movement, not to the entire watch.
Rank #2
- Powered By Light - The solar battery is charged by any light source, eliminating the need for battery changes.
- Stainless-steel Case - The durable stainless-steel case is resistant to corrosion, rust, and daily wear and tear. It's also fortified with a screw-down crown and case back.
- Enhanced Visibility - The dial is protected by an anti-reflective sapphire crystal and features luminescent hands and dial markings that make it easy to read the time in low-light conditions.
- Eco-friendly Fabric Strap - The fabric strap is thoughtfully crafted from recycled plastic, double-layered for durability, and features a slip-thru design for easy on and off.
RZE separately states that its general watch warranty runs for 24 months from purchase through RZE’s site or an authorized retailer. For an authorized-retailer claim, proof of purchase is required. The FAQ excludes, among other things, water damage, misuse or negligence, ordinary cosmetic wear, and damage following unauthorized work. It assigns postage to Singapore for warranty service to the customer, estimates an 8–14 week repair return, and states a $30 shipping, handling and service fee for warranty service. Service details can change, so check RZE’s current terms before relying on them.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Price and availability
Fratello reported launch-era prices of US$219 preorder and US$259 regular for UltraHex versions, and US$279 for Cerakote versions, in its April 19, 2024 article. Those are historical prices, not current offers. The Lug to Lug Watches Malaysia page showed variants as sold out when accessed October 7, 2026. That listing does not establish stock or pricing at RZE or other sellers, or availability in other regions.
Quick Recap
Rank #3
- 3 Hand, Date
- Black Stainless Steel Case
- Mineral Crystal
- 100MM Water Resistant
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.
