I always consider it to be a rare and immensely valuable opportunity whenever I get the chance to connect with dedicated brand owners eager to show off their products. In fact, there’s nothing better than feeling the complete idea of a product finally “clicking” after witnessing the tenacity and perseverance of the individuals committed to developing something new – especially if we’re talking about micro-brands. This was really part of the experience shortly after meeting with Steve Laughlin of Raven Watches for a chance to preview the Raven Venture during an eventful day in Manhattan last fall. It’s a watch that, surprisingly, did absolutely nothing for me in photos. But, after learning about Laughlin’s vision for the watch, spending time with it, and discovering how far smaller brands can push the limits of fit and finishing, I became a fan of this burly dive watch chock-full of personality.
Raven has been there since the beginning of the micro-brand saga and this past year has really shown that Laughlin is eager to release as many models as possible while standing out in this crowded market. In a way, the Raven Venture was originally intended as a sort of 42mm successor to the Raven Trekker, which we reviewed last year. However, after realizing that several of the design traits wouldn’t necessarily translate well in a larger case, plans for a new collection were quickly drafted. The result is a watch that I feel would be ideal for not only value-conscious watch enthusiasts, but individuals that are curious about the hobby, yet eager to find as much value as possible in a product priced under $1,000.
Case
The Raven Venture’s heft is immediately apparent and much of this is due to the sturdy 42mm stainless steel case. This particular example is rendered in brushed 316L stainless steel, but Raven also offers a fully sand-blasted version that provides a more muted, almost titanium-like color tone. It’s also a very proud case, meaning that while it does not necessarily wear tall at 12.5mm thick (same thickness as a modern Rolex Submariner), its presence is surely felt. This isn’t one of those “under the cuff” watches, but it isn’t meant to be and the familiar case shape will be more than satisfying for anyone seeking an “adventure watch.”
There’s also a considerable amount of detail that’s consistent along parts like the 7.5mm screw-down crown and the unidirectional dive bezel with its matte ceramic insert. Interacting with these components yields a positive response, and that kind of tactile satisfaction is often rare in this sub-$1,000 territory. The brushing is crisp and meets at sharply accentuated case corners and the lugs curve and twist slightly in order to support a comfortable fit. It’s also worth noting how well the clearance was calculated for some of these components that sit so flush with each other. The case measures 50mm lug-to-lug, has a lug width of 20mm, and allows for 300m of water resistance.
Dial
Quite a few people will quickly recognize that the Raven Venture dial borrows a great deal of design inspiration from the Tudor Heritage Ranger. The characteristic 3, 6, 9 layout adorns a large portion of visual space while serving to enhance legibility. Raven also incorporated a similar snake head hour hand that’s well-proportioned in comparison to the simple minute hand. Both are of an adequate length and mix well with the bright orange spear tip seconds hand. At around 4:30 we also get a date window aperture. It personally didn’t bother me much and thankfully, Steve chose to work with a matching date wheel.
Another fun feature is the 12 o’clock hour marker, which almost reminds me of the “Big Triangle” Seamaster 300 models that have gained popularity in recent years. All the dial markings are sharp, well-executed, and easy to read thanks to the high contrast design approach. To match the feel of the bezel, the dial is also manufactured in a matte finish. However, odd bezel markings together with the random ’30’ at 6 o’clock can make it easy to lose track of elapsed time. In the future, I’d like to see Raven refine these bezel markings and perhaps even offer a few different inserts – like a 12-hour/second time zone option. Overall, the dial is satisfying to interact with and the Super-LumiNova applied throughout is a real treat.
Bracelet
A substantial watch like the Venture needs a substantial bracelet and this is one of the more interesting varieties I’ve seen in the micro-brand space. Each and every link is solid, brushed stainless steel and the end links themselves are solid as well. It delivers a premium feel that has really just led me to avoid changing straps altogether – I’d almost feel as if the watch would be incomplete without the bracelet. So while the 22mm lug width would work really well with a range of straps, I think the bracelet offers the best wearing experience and keeps the overall feel of the watch very balanced. For even more added comfort, Raven engineered a chunky clasp complete with a ratcheting dive extension.
The clasp is of the two-button variety with a positive action that feels completely secure when closed. It features a cool Raven logo and didn’t really pick up too many scratches during my review period. The clasp is however on the thicker side and I’m almost still amazed by how much it sticks out from under the wrist. While this could be due to the built-in ratcheting mechanism, I’m sure there could be a way to address the issue in future models. Really, unless I was typing away at my desk, I didn’t notice it. But, if you’re the type to avoid as much bulk as possible, this may be a watch to stay away from. That said, the bracelet does also have a nice taper to its design and this was very helpful when the watch was strapped to my 7.25″ wrist.
Movement
The Raven Venture, I believe, is one of the first models from Raven to feature the ETA-2824 automatic movement. I’m sure it’s a pretty sleep-inducing option for more than a few watch nuts, but once again, I think it’s perfect for those seeking accessibility. Besides, the whole “Swiss-made” thing isn’t even paraded on the dial and for the price, I think this feature adds a ton of value. This really is a low maintenance watch, but one that is actually worth servicing and maintaining for a lifetime.
The example I was entrusted with only lost a few seconds per day and everything was smooth to operate via the nice, grippy crown. Much like any other standard ETA, the movement operates at 28,800 bph, has a 40-hour power reserve, and is capable of hacking and hand-winding. A solid, screw-down caseback keeps it all hidden and completes the package. To my knowledge, Raven also regulates and inspects these in-house, but it’s unclear if the practice is carried on for the rest of their models.
Conclusion
Overall I think this is one of the stronger micro-brand models out there alongside watches like the Orion Calamity. The rock solid case and bracelet construction together with a proven movement makes for a watch that is sure to go the distance; especially if you’re the kind of person that’ll really put it to the test. In fact, I think this is still one of the best values if you’re looking for an ETA-equipped diver. Currently, stock numbers for the Raven Venture are low, but Laughlin has already set out to release the Venture II, which is also available for pre-order. The first generation model tested here is priced at $650 and it seems as if the newer models will also carry the same price tag. ravenwatches.com
Necessary Data
>Brand: Raven
>Model: Venture
>Price: $650
>Size: 42mm
>Would reviewer personally wear it: Yes.
>Friend we’d recommend it to first: Someone looking for the ultimate “dad watch” that isn’t interested in spending more than $1,000.
>Best characteristic of watch: The fit and finish achieved between the case and bracelet along with the super legible Ranger-inspired matte dial.
>Worst characteristic of watch: Bezel markings are a little wonky and the clasp thickness can be shaved down quite a bit.
