No Windup Watch Fair would be complete without Lorier. Since the brand’s introduction six years ago, they have become a fixture of the show and a consistent hit among attendees. The big draw for the brand this week was their latest release; a new chronograph they’re calling the Olympia. In the lead-up to the show, I got to spend some time with the new watch, and with Windup behind us and the Olympia now available to everyone, it seemed like the right time to share my thoughts.
The Lorier Olympia is taking the place of the immensely popular Lorier Gemini in their catalog. The Gemini, a mid-century inspired bi-compax chronograph, was unveiled at Windup Watch Fair five years ago. The new Olympia represents a step forward for Lorier, solidifying their position in the microbrand market.
The Olympia is a tri-compax sports chronograph that draws inspiration from the "glory days of mechanical chronographs." While it clearly bears the visual language of Lorier, it manages to have its own unique identity, not resembling any specific watch from the past. The watch measures 39mm across and 46mm lug-to-lug, making it relatively compact.
The Lorier Olympia features the Seiko Instruments Inc.’s (SII) NE88 chronograph movement, a reliable and solid choice. The movement is slightly thick at 7.6mm, but Lorier has managed to create a watch that is only 13.8mm thick overall, including the 2.1mm domed acrylic crystal. The watch wears well and the thickness is not a major concern.
One change from the Gemini to the Olympia is the removal of the rotating bezel in favor of a fixed tachymeter. While some may have an issue with this alteration, it does not take away from the overall appeal of the watch. The Olympia is available in a single configuration with a Panda dial design and blue and red accents.
The Lorier Olympia is priced at $899, making it the brand's most expensive watch to date. However, considering the quality and value it offers as an automatic chronograph, it is well worth the price. Lorier continues to impress with their attention to detail and commitment to evolving their watches.
In conclusion, the Lorier Olympia is a standout addition to their lineup. It represents a new phase for the brand and showcases their growth and maturity. With its vintage-inspired design and reasonable price, the Olympia is bound to be a hit among watch enthusiasts.
