Furlan Marri Nero Sabbia Review: A Stylish Mechaquartz Marvel
- October 5, 2025
Introduction: Where the Furlan Marri Story Began
Furlan Marri didn’t just enter the watch scene; they kicked the door down with vintage-inspired designs that offered startling quality for the price. While their later mechanical offerings like the elegant Furlan Marri Salmon Sector and the unique Furlan Marri Disco Verde showcase their evolving capabilities, it’s worth remembering the watches that started the frenzy: their Mechaquartz chronographs. Today, we’re looking at the Ref. 1072-A Nero Sabbia, a personal favourite of mine from their quartz-powered lineup.
Case and Dimensions: Vintage Proportions, Modern Detail
The immediate appeal lies in its pitch-perfect vintage chronograph aesthetic. Housed in a versatile 38mm 316L stainless steel case (sending love to all other small-wrist-enthusiasts out there), it boasts classic proportions (46mm lug-to-lug, 11.5mm thick) that wear beautifully. Furlan Marri didn’t skimp on the details here; the case features charming “Tasti Tondi” (round) pushers, a hallmark of mid-century chronographs, and intricate finishing including mirror polishing, satin brushing, and even perlage usually hidden from view. The closed caseback is a sturdy decagonal screw-down type, contributing to the 5 ATM water resistance.
Dial Design: Black Sand with Scientific Flair
The dial is where the Nero Sabbia – “Black Sand” – earns its name. It features a striking contrast between a deep black main dial and warm sand-coloured sub-dials and outer track. A pulsometer scale calibrated for 15 pulsations replaces the more common tachymeter, adding a distinct vintage medical or scientific flavour.
The indices are stamped Roman numerals, adding a touch of classical elegance, while the curved and domed hands complete the retro look. The finish is a mix of lacquered and matte surfaces, providing visual depth. Protecting this dial is a sapphire crystal with multiple anti-reflective layers and a fingerprint-resistant coating, impressive inclusions at this price point.
Movement: Mechaquartz That Feels Mechanical
Now, let’s talk about the engine driving this beauty: the Seiko VK64 Mechaquartz movement. This clever hybrid calibre combines the accuracy and reliability of quartz timekeeping with a mechanically actuated chronograph module.
What does this mean for the user? You get the satisfying ‘sweep’ of the central chronograph seconds hand (not the one-second tick of standard quartz chronos) and the instant ‘snap-back’ reset when you stop and zero the chronograph, features usually associated with much more expensive mechanical movements. It’s a fantastic way to get that vintage mechanical feel with grab-and-go quartz convenience.
Straps and Wearability: Vintage Versatility
Further enhancing the value proposition, Furlan Marri includes two premium calf leather straps: one in beige grained leather and another in black textured leather with contrasting beige stitching. Both taper from 20mm at the lugs to 16mm at the signed buckle, ensuring comfort. This thoughtful inclusion allows for easy style changes right out of the box.
On the wrist, the Nero Sabbia feels comfortable, looks incredibly stylish, and perfectly captures the essence of a bygone era of watch design.
Why It’s Special
The Furlan Marri Nero Sabbia, along with its siblings the Rosso Grigio (red/grey) and Castagna (brown), represents an almost unbelievable value proposition. For around €600, you get a watch with stunning vintage design cues executed with meticulous attention to detail and finishing that punches far above its weight.
The choice of the Seiko VK64 Mechaquartz movement is inspired, offering the tactile satisfaction of a mechanical chronograph alongside quartz accuracy and affordability. While all the colourways are attractive, the sharp contrast and classic look of the Nero Sabbia make it my preferred choice.
This watch is perfect for anyone who loves the look of vintage chronographs but wants modern reliability and doesn’t want to break the bank. It’s a masterclass in accessible, design-led watchmaking.
Conclusion: The Best Budget Chronograph in the Game?
The Furlan Marri Nero Sabbia Mechaquartz chronograph is more than just an entry point into the brand; it’s a standout product in its own right. Its strengths are numerous: gorgeous vintage-inspired design, excellent case finishing, thoughtful details like the pulsometer scale and Tasti Tondi pushers, the user-friendly and engaging Mechaquartz movement, and an almost unbeatable price point.
It proves that exceptional design and a satisfying horological experience don’t require a hefty price tag. If you’re seeking a stylish, reliable, and conversation-starting chronograph with heaps of vintage charm, the Nero Sabbia is an absolutely brilliant choice. Furlan Marri truly hit the ground running with these, didn’t they?
Specifications:
Brand – Furlan Marri
Model – Nero Sabbia
Case Material – 316L Stainless Steel
Case Dimensions – 38mm diameter, 11.5mm thickness
Water Resistance – 5 ATM / 50 meters
Strap – Two included: Beige grained calf leather, Black textured calf leather
Crystal – Sapphire Crystal with AR and fingerprint resistant coatings
Movement – Seiko VK64 Mechaquartz
Price – ~€600
Official store link here.
Image Gallery
About Furlan Marri: Key Questions Answered
What movement powers the Furlan Marri Nero Sabbia?
The Furlan Marri Nero Sabbia is powered by the Seiko VK64 mechaquartz movement. This hybrid caliber combines a mechanical chronograph module with the accuracy of a quartz timekeeping base. It delivers the smooth sweep of a mechanical chronograph hand with precise quartz reliability and features a 60-minute chronograph counter alongside standard time functions.
What are the key design details of the Furlan Marri Nero Sabbia?
The Furlan Marri Nero Sabbia features a 38mm stainless steel case with a decagonal screw-down caseback, engraved perlage decoration, and polished and brushed finishes. Its “Tasti Tondi”-style engraved pushers, domed and curved hands, and a pulsometer scale dial reflect vintage-inspired craftsmanship. The watch is paired with a calf leather strap and stainless steel buckle for a refined, timeless look.
Is the Furlan Marri Nero Sabbia water-resistant?
Yes, the Furlan Marri Nero Sabbia offers a water resistance of 5 ATM (50 meters). While it is suitable for everyday activities like hand washing or brief splashes, it is not recommended for swimming or diving. Its elegant construction is designed primarily for style and casual wear rather than water sports.
What is included with the Furlan Marri Nero Sabbia packaging?
The Furlan Marri Nero Sabbia comes in a packaging inspired by 1940s travel cases. The set includes a robust and refined presentation box, warranty and certificate papers, a micro-fiber cloth, and an additional secondary strap. Designed for both elegance and practicality, the packaging ensures safe storage and travel for the watch.
