It occurred to me recently that with a 40-watch collection (hoping to get it down to 30, selling some off), I have no watches with sapphire crystals. Mine have mineral or "flame-fusion," the latter's strength and efficacy under debate among watch freaks with skepticism running high.
So I found this Invicta Speedway Reserve XL 4913 used on eBay and won a bid for $140 with free shipping. Upon opening it, I noticed it's not as blingy as a lot of Invicta models but there is a heft, a grandeur, and a gravitas about it.
First, I love the fit and feel. With its 50mm case, it reminds me of the Invicta Ocean Reef. Its fit and finish are superb. It's built like a tank. And then there's that sapphire, a component lacking on the Reef, which relies on flame-fusion crystal, a treated form of mineral glass.
The bezel is tight; you really have to be deliberate to get it to spin. This appears to be made to real diver specs in which you don't want the bezel moving too easily.
Not surprisingly, this XL Speedway is part of the Reserve Collection, hand and Swiss made.
I love the gunmetal. I love that it's bold without being frou-frou. Some Invicta watches try so hard to be loud they come across like a strawberry daiquiri with whipped cream, topped with a plastic gondola.
The Speedway Reserve is a pint of dark ale. Cheers.
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