DWISS doubles down on a novel time-telling display with the M3S
Borna Bošnjak
When it comes to microbrands, they can largely be divided into three categories. The first is concerned with making unobtrusive and largely unnoticeable, everyday watches that just get the job done. Then there are those that exploit the unobtanium status of certain vintage pieces, whether due to their prohibitive cost, rarity or most often, a combination of the two. And then there are brands like DWISS, now in its 13th year of existence, that have focused on telling time in unique ways just like high-end independents, but doing so at an affordable price point. Founder Rafael Simoes Miranda’s portfolio already includes the “displaced time” of the M3, and the Urwerk-celebrated wandering hour display of the M3W. The new DWISS M3S sports yet another way of telling time, packaging it in an on-trend integrated-bracelet case, powered by a Swiss workhorse.
The most captivating feature of any DWISS is its dial, and the M3S hopes to continue the trend. The slanted hour markers with engraved Arabic numerals were inspired by roulette wheels, as they slope towards the open central portion of the dial. Here you’ll find indications for the centre seconds, pointed to by a short nub on the large red cog, while minutes are indicated by the trapezoidal, skeletonised protrusion reaching to the inner minutes track. The hours are what DWISS calls its “mysterious signature hours”, and if you’ve recently read our coverage of HYT’s new release, they’re read in a similar fashion. Rather than employing immiscible fluids, the hour hand is replaced by a large coloured disc that slowly makes its way around the outer perimeter of the dial, looking at its solid end to read off the hours. On the image above, the time is the reviewer’s special – 10:10 (or just about).
On the wrist, the M3S continues the legacy of most DWISS models thus far, and that’s an unabashed presence. The squared-off steel case is large at 42mm, though reasonably slim at 11.7mm, combining with the bright colours and open concept dial to stand out. Finishing is dominated by a noticeable vertical brushing, with thin slivers of polish on the leading edges of the bezel, crown, and bracelet links. Rather impressively, the whole assembly is water-resistant to 200 metres. DWISS doesn’t really brag about the aquatic potential of the M3S – it’s not that style of watch, after all – but it’s nice to know that it’ll handle a splash with no issues.
And speaking of the bracelet, DWISS is offering a choice of coloured FKM rubber strap or H-link steel bracelet. The former turns up the attention-grabbing factor further with its bright colours and cut-out design, while the latter tones things down a tad. I’m particularly fond of the bracelet/strap integration here. This is an area where microbrands sometimes struggle, as making the case and bracelet or strap feel like a cohesive unit can be a stylistic and finishing challenge. Regardless of whether you pick rubber or steel, both are equipped with a push-button butterfly clasp. I’m personally not the biggest fan as they don’t offer much in terms of on-the-fly adjustability, but if you prefer a watch without a noticeable clasp, you’re in luck.
Finally, the secret behind the M3S’ party trick is a Sellita SW200 movement, where the hand stack has been mildly modified to tell the time using the small cogs for minutes and seconds, with a disc for the hours. As for the other specs, you’ll likely know them off by heart – automatic, 4Hz, and a 38-hour power reserve. Finishing is minimal, limited to a custom, Geneva-striped rotor, with the other surfaces left undecorated.
DWISS M3S pricing & availability
The DWISS M3S is limited to 500 pieces per colourway, available from the brand’s website. Price: US$1,390 (strap), US$1,590 (bracelet)
| Brand | DWISS |
| Model | M3S |
| Case Dimensions | 42mm (D) x 11.7mm (T) |
| Case Material | Stainless steel |
| Water Resistance | 200 metres |
| Crystal(s) | Sapphire crystal front |
| Dial | Black or white with red, yellow, blue, green highlights |
| Bracelet | Integrated steel bracelet or FKM rubber strap, steel butterfly clasp |
| Movement | Sellita SW200-1, automatic |
| Power Reserve | 38 hours |
| Functions | Hours disc, minutes, seconds |
| Availability | 500 pieces |
| Price | US$1,390 (strap) US$1,590 (bracelet) |
Made in partnership with DWISS. However, the opinions expressed in this article are our own in accordance with our Editorial Policy.