Vario’s VERSA reminds us that reversible watches can still be accessible
Tom AustinWatch lovers have always had a soft spot for watches that give them something to fiddle with. Bezels and pushers don’t always cut it, though. There’s a reason enthusiasts enjoy opening a hunter caseback, adjusting a jump-hour display or operating a mechanical alarm. Watches are more fun when they’re interactive.
The Vario VERSA falls firmly into that camp. At first glance, it looks like a fairly traditional rectangular watch. Then you realise the entire case rotates, revealing a completely different display on the other side. A few years after its debut, it’s still one of the more unusual watches you’ll find in the microbrand space.
The case
The VERSA’s reversible 316L stainless steel case is still the headline act. Measuring 38mm and shaped in a distinctly Art Deco style, the watch sits within a central carriage that slides out and rotates before snapping back into place. It’s a mechanism that feels satisfying every time you use it and, more importantly, doesn’t feel like a gimmick. Unlike some reversible watches that hide a blank metal caseback or a second dial altogether, the VERSA puts the system to work by allowing the wearer to view the movement while the watch is still on the wrist.
At 10.5mm thick, it isn’t as slim as some traditional rectangular dress watches, though that’s hardly surprising given the additional engineering involved; plus, it’s considerably thinner than the previous, dual-dial versions of the VERSO. The proportions remain balanced, and the short, inbuilt lugs help it sit comfortably on the wrist. The VERSO offers a reasonable 50 metres of water resistance, which, for the kind of watch it is, is strong and means it can comfortably deal with everyday wear.
The dials
The new tuxedo models take a more traditional approach than some previous VERSA releases. Available with contrasting black or white chapter rings, or rectangles in this case, both dials feature a dark, mirrored ribbed centre section, applied markers, and a layout that feels entirely at home within the watch’s Art-Deco design language. The effect is clean and easy to read, with enough visual detail to keep things interesting without becoming busy.
Flipping the case over reveals an engraved caseback with a circular exhibition window, allowing owners to switch between two distinct looks, though it’s somewhat unclear when you’d choose to wear it with the movement on show in the long term.
The movement
Nevertheless, we all like looking at a movement now and again. Inside the VERSO sits the Miyota 6T28, a Japanese automatic movement modified to include a custom tungsten oscillating rotor. Vario has sensibly opted for a calibre with a strong reputation for reliability and straightforward servicing, which delivers a weekend-proof 40-hour power reserve while beating at 28,800 Vph.
The strap
The VERSO arrives on a black Italian leather strap that suits the watch’s style perfectly; however, Vario notes that the strap may not be short enough for wrists with a circumference under 6 inches. This is solved by their range of shorter Epsom leather straps, which are a welcome addition, as they’re offered in a variety of colours, such as Mahogany Brown, Espresso Brown, Pewter Grey, Sand Beige, Onyx Black, Scarlet Red, Cerulean Blue, Mandarin Orange, and Forest Green.
For a small additional cost, there’s even an adjustable stainless-steel elastic metal bracelet, available in “long” or “short” sizes. These charming little bracelets are a rare sight these days. It looks awesome with the VERSO and will fit well when sized correctly, but watch out for that pesky arm-hair pull that comes with stretchy metal bracelets.
The verdict
Most enthusiasts will probably never own a reversible watch, which is a shame because they’re great fun to live with. There’s something inherently satisfying about interacting with a watch that does more than simply tell the time. The Vario VERSA continues to offer one of the most accessible routes into that experience. Whether you prefer the new tuxedo dials or the earlier dual-time models, the biggest attraction remains the same: there simply aren’t many watches like it.
Vario VERSA Reversible Single Time pricing and availability
The Vario Versa Reversible Single Time collection is now available directly from Vario. Price: £379/US$498/AU$722 (strap) £404/US$530/AU$769 (elastic metal bracelet)
| Brand | Vario |
| Model | VERSA Reversible Single Time |
| Reference | White Tuxedo Black Tuxedo |
| Case Dimensions | 28mm (D) x 10.5mm (T) x 41.5mm (LTL) |
| Case Material | 316L stainless steel |
| Water Resistance | 50 metres |
| Crystal(s) | Sapphire front and back |
| Dial | Tuxedo dial, two-tone mirrored stripes |
| Lug Width | 22mm |
| Strap | Black leather strap, optional coloured straps, optional elastic steel bracelet |
| Movement | Miyota 6T28, automatic |
| Power Reserve | 40 hours |
| Functions | Hours, minutes |
| Availability | Available now |
| Price | £379/US$498/AU$722 (strap) £404/US$530/AU$769 (metal bracelet) |
Made in partnership with Vario. However, the opinions expressed in this article are our own in accordance with our Editorial policy.