CHEAP BASTARD: The Leff Amsterdam Tube Watch

David Smiedt

Okay, you got us, this piece is a smidge over the $500 AUD benchmark that we hold so dear at this penny-pinching, open-your-wallet-and-moth-flies-out column. But the ROI is worth it.

There are a number of colourways in Leff’s Tube Collection but for out-and-out handsomeness, we’re drawn to the steel and pearl combination.

The first thing you’ll notice on the pearl-finished face is that it’s surrounded by a circle of teeth that stays just the right side of steam-punk minimalism.

The only numbers you’ll see appear in the date window at three o’clock with the hours and minutes indicated by discreet dashes below a sweeping second hand. All of which combines to present a compelling take on underplayed monochrome.

Both the case – available in 38mm and 42mm varieties – plus the bracelet are manufactured from 316L stainless steel. Which not only retains its glimmer but does not corrode, rust or water stain.

The dome is made of sapphire glass that resists scratching and abrasion. It also has a melting point of 2030C if you’re seeking to bore non-watch people with the details of your latest purchase.

The 316L stainless steel crown deserves a mention for two reasons. First up, its screw-down mechanism ensures 10ATM water resistance. Look a little closer though and you’ll see some mischief afoot from designer Piet Hein Eek in the form of a face.

The movement is a reliable Japanese Miyota 2035 three-hand quartz that uses a standard electronic oscillator to keep it running precisely.

In terms of dimension, the 42mm version is an elegant 11.8mm thick – which allows it to pull double duty in either tuxedo or wetsuit. At just 160 grams, it’s a light daily wear with a 22m wide stainless steel link strap with butterfly clasp.

There are some pluses, too, on the service side with free worldwide shipping, free returns within 14 days if it’s not your jam IRL and a two-year warranty.

While you’re on the site, click on the mysteriously named “other things” tab to check out Leff’s range of cube desk clocks that we’re also casting a covetous eye over. And we’ll Leff it at that.

Pricing and availability

The Leff Amsterdam Tube Watch is US$451 –  for more information, go to Leffamsterdam.com