The Vertex M36 is a 36 mm automatic field watch that Vertex presents as a tribute to a British military watch it made in 1944. Its compact case, 18 mm strap width, small-seconds dial, and 100 m water resistance give it a traditional field-watch profile, while its current price places it firmly in luxury-watch territory.
What is the Vertex M36?
Vertex describes the M36 as a modern tribute to a watch it produced for the British military in 1944. The historical connection is the brand’s stated inspiration; the M36 is a contemporary redesign, not the original wartime watch.
Graphic and conceptual watch designer Greg Bottle said he was asked to create the redesign and drawings in October 2023. In a statement published July 24, 2024, he called the opportunity to work on the historic piece a privilege.
Vertex M36 specifications
| Specification | Vertex M36 |
|---|---|
| Case diameter | 36 mm, brushed 316L stainless steel (Vertex product page, retrieved 2026) |
| Case depth | 11 mm (Vertex product page, retrieved 2026) |
| Lug-to-lug | 46.5 mm (Vertex product page, retrieved 2026) |
| Lug width | 18 mm (Vertex product page, retrieved 2026) |
| Crystal | Double-domed sapphire (Vertex product page, retrieved 2026) |
| Water resistance | 100 m (Vertex product page, retrieved 2026) |
| Movement | Automatic, non-date Sellita SW260-1; 31 jewels (Vertex product page, retrieved 2026) |
| Power reserve | 41 hours, as reported by Fratello in its May 2025 review |
| Beat rate | 28,800 vibrations per hour, as reported by Fratello in May 2025 |
How does the M36 fit?
The 36 mm diameter and 46.5 mm lug-to-lug measurement make the M36 a compact option compared with many larger field watches. Diameter alone does not determine fit: wrist shape, the distance across the top of the wrist, and strap choice also affect how a watch wears. At 11 mm deep, it is relatively slim on paper, though the double-domed crystal contributes to its overall profile.
#1 Best Overall
- Case Width: 1.4 inches (36 mm)
- Wrist Circumference: 5.5 - 7.5 inches (140 - 190 mm)
- Automatic
- Day Date RPA2023 Skeleton Back
The lugs take an 18 mm-wide strap. That measurement is the key starting point when shopping for a replacement 18 mm watch strap; check the strap’s attachment style and end fitting as well as its width. The listing of third-party straps does not imply Vertex endorsement.
Movement and daily use
Vertex identifies the movement as a non-date automatic Sellita SW260-1 with 31 jewels. Fratello’s May 2025 review gives a 41-hour power reserve and a rate of 28,800 vibrations per hour. Vertex’s product search result uses “top-grade” language and presents different technical detail, so the grade should not be treated as a settled specification alongside the review’s figures.
Rank #2
- Unique Design: 36 mm case, beige dial with BGW Superlume, blued gmt hour hand, calendar window at 6 o'clock, luxury and elegant
- GMT Watch: This men's GMT watch with Swiss Ronda 515-24H quartz movement, more accurate than automatic watches,a reliable fashion accessory for both men and women
- Premium Materials: Boasts a bubble mineral crystal with an anti-reflective coating; Crafted from 316L stainless steel, enhanced durability and a refined appearance
- Water Resistance: Waterproof up to 100 m,for all your daily waterproofing needs
- Screw-Down Crown: The screw-down crown ensures secure adjustments and protects against water ingress, maintaining the watch's integrity in various environments
The lack of a date keeps the dial focused on timekeeping and small seconds. An automatic movement runs while worn and will need to be reset after it stops; the stated reserve is the interval the watch can run off the wrist under the relevant conditions, not a guarantee of real-world duration for every wearer.
Dial, legibility, and water resistance
Fratello describes a matte black dial with solid-cast Super-LumiNova X1 C3 numerals, printed luminous indexes, small seconds, and syringe-style hands. The reviewer praised its low-light visibility. That is a hands-on reviewer’s impression, not a separately measured lume test.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Rank #3
- Japanese NH35A Automatic Movement: AD2088 Powered by the Japan NH35A automatic mechanical movement, offering a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour, 41-hour power reserve, hacking function, and bidirectional automatic winding. Enhanced with 24 jewels for stable and long-lasting performance
- Compact Yet Functional 36mm Design: Featuring a 36 mm brushed 316L stainless steel case with a 12.5 mm thickness and a 46 mm lug-to-lug length, this compact field watch offers a balanced wrist presence suitable for all-day comfort and versatility
- Anti-Reflective Bubble Crystal Glass: The dial is protected by bubble-shaped K1 mineral glass, with an inner AR anti-reflective blue coating for improved visibility in direct light. Designed to minimize glare and resist impact while preserving a vintage military aesthetic
- C3 Luminous Hands and Dial Markers: Equipped with C3 yellow-green lume on both dial markers and hands, this watch ensures excellent readability in dark environments. Paired with a screw-down crown and solid case back, it delivers a field-ready performance you can count on
- 200 M water resistance: A screw-down crown, and screw-in case back. frequency of 21600 times per hour (3Hz), stop second device, bidirectional automatic winding, 24 stones, 41 hours of energy storage. Great for diving, swimming, snorkeling, and daily waterproof needs
Vertex rates the M36 to 100 m water resistance. That rating is a useful practical specification, but it does not establish that a particular watch is safe for every water activity in every condition. Follow the manufacturer’s care guidance and ensure the watch’s seals are maintained, especially before exposing an older or serviced example to water.
Which straps come with the Vertex M36?
Vertex lists an expandable metal strap, a sand-colored fabric strap, and a brown leather over-and-under strap. The three options let the watch shift between a more polished metal look and more traditional field-watch styling. The product page gives an 18 mm lug width, so replacement choices should match that width and the watch’s attachment configuration.
Rank #4
- AUTOMATIC & HAND-WINDING MOVEMENT: Powered by the ST1701 automatic mechanical movement with manual winding capability, delivering reliable timekeeping and the engaging experience of a traditional mechanical watch.
- CLASSIC 36MM COMPACT DESIGN: Designed with a 36mm case, slim 9.5mm profile, and 44mm lug-to-lug length for balanced proportions and a comfortable fit. Its compact size and timeless styling make it suitable for everyday wear, business settings, and formal occasions.
- SAPPHIRE CRYSTAL & EXHIBITION CASEBACK: Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal protects the dial while maintaining excellent clarity. The sapphire exhibition caseback provides a clear view of the mechanical movement, adding character and visual interest to the watch.
- POLISHED CASE WITH PROTECTIVE COATING: The fully polished case creates a refined, elegant appearance, while an anti-scratch protective coating helps reduce everyday wear and keeps the watch looking its best. Paired with a genuine leather strap for a classic and comfortable finish.
- BGW9 BLUE LUME & 50M WATER RESISTANCE: Luminous hands and markers provide a clear blue glow for improved readability in low-light conditions. Rated to 5 ATM / 50 meters water resistance for added protection against everyday splashes and brief water exposure.
Price and availability
Vertex’s product page displayed a price of $2,964 and 16 units available when retrieved in 2026. Those are changeable storefront values, not a guaranteed current price or stock count. Fratello reported a different regional price in its May 2025 review; regional pricing, taxes, shipping, warranty terms, and availability can differ. Check the live Vertex listing or an authorized seller for the terms that apply to your location.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Is the Vertex M36 worth considering?
The M36 makes the strongest case for someone who wants a compact, historically styled field watch with a mechanical movement, sapphire crystal, 100 m rating, and several strap choices. The 18 mm lug width also makes strap replacement straightforward in principle, though attachment compatibility still matters.
Best Value
- Exquisite Sand color Dial: Embellished with delicate texture and elegantly raised logo, lettering, and seconds markers
- VH31 Quartz Movement: with three-hand analog display and date window; hardened bubble mirror mineral glass resists scratches
- Case Size: 36 mm case diameter (without crown); Case length: 46 mm( lug to lug); Case thickness: 12 mm; Lug width 20 mm; 220 mm (total watch length / circumference) Suitable for wrist: 13-18 cm
- Case Material: Explorer-shaped 316L case with radial brushed finishing on top and bottom, polished sides
- Crown: Screw down Crown,With Addiesdive Logo Case Back: Screw down Case Back, Brushed Process Strap: 316L Solid Stainless Steel Bracelet Clasp: Folding Clasp With Safety, With 3D Hexagonal Logo Water Resistant: 10 Bar/100 meters. Interchangeable with all 20 mm straps
Its main trade-off is cost: the brand’s displayed price is a substantial luxury-watch purchase rather than an entry-level field-watch price. Before buying, compare its 36 mm diameter and 46.5 mm lug-to-lug length with watches that fit you well, confirm the live regional price and seller terms, and decide whether the design and historic inspiration justify the premium for you.
Quick Recap
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.
