Maen Manhattan 37 Review: A Microbrand Take on 70s Integrated Elegance
- November 3, 2025
Introduction: 70s Icons Reimagined for Today
The allure of the 1970s integrated bracelet sports watch is undeniable, a design language that continues to captivate enthusiasts decades later. While haute horlogerie icons defined the genre, the microbrand scene has brilliantly democratized this style. Maen Watches, a brand with Dutch roots known for offering sharp design and Swiss Made quality at accessible price points, dives headfirst into this popular category with their compelling Manhattan 37.
Case and Design: Slim, Sharp, and Geometrically Elegant
Inspired by the landmark timepieces of the seventies, the Manhattan 37 cuts a distinct figure. Its 316L stainless steel case, measuring a versatile 37mm in diameter with a 47mm lug-to-lug span, immediately catches the eye with its vertically elongated octagonal bezel set upon a subtly squared case structure.
What truly elevates the wearability is its remarkably slim profile, coming in at just 9.3mm thick. This thinness, combined with the integrated design, ensures the watch feels balanced and comfortable on the wrist, despite wearing visually larger than its 37mm might suggest. The case features a sophisticated interplay of satin-brushed surfaces and polished chamfers, extending seamlessly onto the bracelet. A screw-down caseback helps secure a practical 10 ATM (100 meters) water resistance rating.
The Dial: Côtes de Genève Texture Meets Color Variety
The dial is arguably the Manhattan 37’s most striking feature. Maen opted for a vertically brushed Côtes de Genève pattern, a finish typically associated with movement decoration, applied directly to the dial face. This creates a dynamic texture that plays beautifully with light, offering a unique shimmer.
It’s available in several appealing colours, including Midnight Blue, Ice Grey, Anthracite Black, and a warm Copper/Salmon, with options for both date and no-date configurations. Legibility is ensured by applied indices and hands treated with C1 X1 Superluminova, providing a crisp glow in low light. Protecting the dial is a flat sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating.
Movement Options: Reliable Swiss Performance
Maen offers two Swiss automatic movement options for the Manhattan 37, catering to different priorities.
- The standard Sellita SW200-1 is a well-regarded workhorse known for robustness and ease of service, running at 28,800 vibrations per hour with ~38 hours of power reserve.
- The Top Grade SW200-1 offers improved performance, regulated in five positions (average accuracy of ±4 seconds/day), rhodium plating, Geneva stripes, and blued screws.
Opting for the Top Grade movement also grants an open caseback, a great bonus for those who appreciate visible mechanics and enhanced finishing.
The Bracelet: Seamless Integration and Hidden Comfort
A defining characteristic of this watch style is the integrated bracelet, and Maen has executed it exceptionally well. The stainless steel bracelet flows directly from the case and is secured via screws in the caseback, echoing vintage construction.
It tapers from 22mm at the case down to 16mm at the clasp, improving comfort and balance. The links articulate smoothly, and the brushed surfaces with polished accents match the case perfectly. A hidden butterfly deployant clasp enhances the seamless look and eliminates bulk typically found with traditional clasps.
Why It’s Special
The Maen Manhattan 37 excels by delivering the sought-after 70s integrated bracelet aesthetic with a distinct identity, modern construction, and thoughtful details.
The use of a Côtes de Genève dial finish is rare at this price point and adds immediate texture and depth. The slim 9.3mm case makes it especially wearable. Maen’s choice to offer both standard and Top Grade Swiss movements is a strong enthusiast-friendly move, and the bracelet with its hidden clasp is among the most comfortable and refined in the microbrand category.
This is a watch for those who appreciate retro-inspired elegance, practical wearability, and Swiss mechanical quality at a relatively modest price point.
Conclusion: A Confident Expression of 70s Cool
The Maen Manhattan 37 is a highly successful interpretation of a classic genre. Its strengths are the bold, sharp 70s-inspired design, the unique Côtes de Genève dial, the slim and wearable case, and the quality Swiss movement options, especially the decorated Top Grade version.
While the integrated design naturally limits strap swaps, the bracelet itself is a highlight. Priced from approximately €949 for the standard model and €1449 for the Top Grade, the value proposition is strong. Maen has created a stylish, versatile, and refined timepiece that confidently punches above its weight.
If you’re drawn to the integrated bracelet aesthetic and want something slim, elegant, and well-finished (without venturing into five-figure territory) the Manhattan 37 is well worth your attention.
Specifications:
Brand: Maen
Model: Manhattan 37
Case Material: 316L Stainless Steel
Case Dimensions: 37mm diameter (9.3mm thickness)
Water Resistance: 10 ATM (100m)
Strap: Integrated 316L Stainless Steel Bracelet
Crystal: Sapphire Crystal with AR coating
Movement: Automatic Sellita SW200-1 (Standard or Top Grade)
Lume: Yes (C1 X1 Superluminova)
Power Reserve: ~38 hours
Limited Edition: No
Price: Starting approx. €949 (Standard), €1449 (Top Grade)
Official store link here.
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About Maen: Key Questions Answered
Is MAEN a quality Swiss watch brand?
MAEN is a Swedish independent watch brand (based in Stockholm) that uses Swiss automatic movements (e.g. Sellita SW200-1) and high-quality materials (e.g. sapphire crystals, solid stainless steel), delivering good craftsmanship at a competitive pricing.
What are the key specs of the Manhattan 37 model?
The Manhattan 37 has a 37 mm stainless steel case, 9.3 mm thickness, ~47 mm lug-to-lug, integrated brushed & polished steel bracelet, Sellita SW200-1 Swiss automatic movement, 316L steel, sapphire crystal with AR coating, 10 ATM water resistance, Côtes de Genève dial.
How many dial colors and versions does the Manhattan 37 come in?
It’s offered in four dial colors: Midnight Blue, Ice Grey, Anthracite Black, and Copper/Salmon. You can get versions with or without date, plus a “Top Grade” version with decorated movement and open case-back.
Does the Manhattan 37 wear large despite its modest size?
Yes. Although 37 mm in diameter, the integrated bracelet, the case shape (vertically elongated octagonal bezel), and lug-to-lug of ~47 mm give it a presence that feels larger on the wrist.
