RZE founder launches new ultra-affordable microbrand Vostra with the racing-ready Vector
Nina ScallyFor those who don’t already know, RZE is a microbrand whose best-selling model is the Endeavour, a dive watch that they say is designed for extreme adventure-seekers. RZE’s models are all crafted from titanium and are strengthened by the brand’s UltraHex coating – an engineered treatment that fortifies each rugged, no-nonsense tool watch with an extra level of scratch resistance. Over the past five years since its birth, RZE hasn’t taken its foot off the gas and has become one of the most successful tool watch-focused microbrands on the market, thanks to a combination of keen pricing and solid designs.
Just last month, RZE announced it would be embarking on a new voyage: the launch of a sibling brand, Vostra. This brand’s first release, which is imminently launching on Kickstarter, is called the Vector: is a vibrant and exciting chronograph that harkens back to the heyday of motorsport racing and also sets new standards for affordability.
The case
Inspired by the strength-to-weight ratio of titanium and its vast use across the aerospace industry, RZE has always exclusively crafted its watches from this solid UltraHEX-treated material. However, the Vostra Vector line is made entirely of microblasted 316L stainless steel – a concession to help bring costs down further.
The three Vostra Vector designs feature angular cases with a 12-sided bezel, nodding to iconic Gérald Genta-penned 1970s designs. A screw-down crown, sapphire crystal glass and a 100-meter water-resistant rating all drive forward the fundamentals of the tough, rugged watches that RZE adopts for its own designs. The watch also features a caseback sealed by a Viton gasket to resist pressure, temperature and chemicals.
The dial
Right off the bat, these new sports watches look ready to get behind the wheel. Vostra explains in its press release that the creators behind the brand were driven by the things that made them smile as children and as experienced watch collectors in adulthood. It suggests that future designs could follow the same lead with fun, playful sensibilities and possibly a boldness that equals these three debut pieces.
Considering RZE is well known for its experimental approach to dial textures and colours, it’s no surprise that we’re seeing similar shades trickling through from collections like the Endeavour. The Breitling Cobra-like yellow, which RZE names “Medallion Yellow”, is similar to the Vostra’s “Electro Yellow” model, while the soft matte “Frigate Grey” from the Endeavour collection bears a resemblance to the “Gamma Grey” reference of the Vector.
Of the Atomic Blue, Electro Yellow and Gamma Grey iterations, the Atomic Blue has to be my favourite. No two colours go together better than blue and orange in a motorsport watch, and since the orange isn’t too dazzling, it allows for the black 60-minute scale on the flange to do its job in collaboration with the central chronograph hand. The Electra Yellow also benefits from some colour contrast, with sharp accents in red.
The final model, the Gramma Grey, is elevated by turquoise detailing, lifting an otherwise monochromatic design to something sporty and noticeable. The 3 o’clock sub-dial on all three models is a 24-hour scale – a function of its movement – which is a bit of a shame. Still, the graceful movement of the central chronograph hand in each design will definitely give mechanical fans the feel of a mechanical movement at work.
The bracelet
An H-link bracelet would have looked good on this watch, but instead, we have a single link design that makes me think of the metal bands that you see on an Apple Watch – which is not necessarily a bad thing. Vostra explains that the flat links have been precisely engineered to recall automotive designs of the past – and while it appears to be integrated, it actually has standard (albeit hidden) lugs, with a versatile 20mm lug width. A butterfly deployant clasp keeps the Vostra Vector secured to the wearer’s wrist.
The movement
Despite occasionally being somewhat divisive, mechaquartz movements give you a smooth chronograph sweeping hand without the price tag of a fully mechanical movement, plus the accuracy (and cost-effectiveness) of quartz. And if you’re going to go for a mechaquartz, Seiko is the brand to do it with. The Vostra Vector’s Seiko VK63 is a workhorse that’s common in the microbrand space – no complaints from us here, as it helps the Vector achieve its frankly astronomically low retail price.
Vostra Vector pricing and availability
The Vostra Vector will be available to back on Kickstarter from February 14th. Price: US$199 (Kickstarter backer price), US$279 (RRP)
Brand | Vostra |
Model | Vector |
Case Dimensions | 40mm (D) x 13mm (T) x 47mm (LTL) |
Case Material | 316L stainless steel |
Water Resistance | 100 metres, screw-down crown |
Crystal(s) | Sapphire |
Dial | Atomic Blue, Electro Yellow or Gamma Grey |
Lug Width | 20mm |
Strap | Single link steel bracelet, butterfly deployant clasp |
Movement | Seiko VK63, mechaquartz |
Battery Life | ~3 years |
Functions | Hours, minutes, seconds, date, chronograph |
Availability | Launching on Kickstarter from Feb 14th 2025 |
Price | US$279 |
Made in partnership with Vostra. However, the opinions expressed in this article are our own in accordance with our Editorial Policy.