The Infantry Mechanical employs an ETA 2824 to handle timekeeping and, like every other 2824 I’ve come across, timekeeping is accurate and setting both the time and date is a simple process via the non-screwdown crown at three o’clock. The date display offers a legible black-on-white display via a small aperture located at three on the dial. The Infantry Mechanical has been fitted with an anti-reflective sapphire crystal and a display case back that offers a view of its signed rotor.

Weighing in at 125g on wrist, the Infantry Mechanical is a very wearable and practical watch. An excellent gift for a new grad or an upgrade from that beat-up old Timex Ironman, this watch offers a simple look that is somewhat emboldened by its polished case. The hands and markers are painted with luminous paint, but don’t expect diver-like results as the lume was found to be acceptable but not especially bright or long lasting.

I like a simple and versatile watch and if you’re looking for something with those qualities that falls into the more casual side of the dress spectrum, the Infantry Mechanical should do nicely. While a subjective assessment, I would mention that I much preferred to wear the watch on a leather strap, which is less of a slam against the very nice mesh bracelet and more of an indication that the case and dial design of the Infantry Mechanical is better paired with a strap.

Even with the polished case and bracelet, the Infantry Mechanical is not what I would call flashy, just a flashier version of what it could have been with a brushed case. Its simple design, excellent display and 40mm sizing makes the Infantry Mechanical a great watch for business casual or jeans and T-shirt needs. Victorinox lists the Infantry Mechanical for $750 USD but with sales and discounts, they can be found for less and, provided you buy from an authorized dealer, you get a three year warranty. At no more than $750, the Victorinox Infantry Mechanical is an affordable three-hander with a Swiss movement, multiple mounting options and a versatile and understated style that I rather like. Direct competition would include the similarly priced models from the Hamilton Khaki line as well as the more expensive, but tritium-equipped, Luminox Field Automatic 1800. You have to hand it to Victorinox as they continue to offer a solid product at department store prices and they represent some of the best value from a reliable big brand using genuine Swiss mechanical movements.

Necessary Data
>Brand: Victorinox Swiss Army
>Model: Infantry Mechanical
>Price: $750.00
>Size: 40 x 10.5 x 46.5 mm
>Would reviewer personally wear it: Yes
>Friend we’d recommend it to first: Anyone looking for a simple and versatile watch with understated military styling
>Best characteristic of watch: Dial design and laidback style
>Worst characteristic of watch: The lack of an option for a brushed case and bracelet