Remontoir
Furlan Marri Disco Volante
Jag's Watches: Very positiveWorn & Wound: Very positiveFratello: Very positiveTime+Tide: Very positiveWatchGecko: PositiveaBlogtoWatch: Positive

Each marker on the ring is one counted review, coloured by its verdict.

Furlan Marri

Disco Volante

2020538mmmanual$2,780 list priceAnnounced July 2024

A 38mm lugless steel dress watch in the 'flying saucer' disc-case style of Art Deco-era watches, with a stepped case, a multi-part sector dial and small seconds at 6 o'clock. It uses a hand-wound Peseux 7001 whose bridges Furlan Marri redesigned and finished by hand.

Creator Consensus

Creator Consensus

Very positive

6 reviews: 6 positive, 0 mixed, 0 negative. 6 of 6 recommend it.

Every reviewer praises the dial, tiered case and originality. Most single out the generous sector lume, the warm salmon and brown palette, and the way it reinterprets vintage design rather than copying it. Most also find it wears compactly thanks to the lugless form and rate the movement finishing highly for the money. Some find the recessed crown fiddly to wind.

Where they differ. Most find the lugless case compact and comfortable, but a couple of reviewers think it too small for larger wrists or bolder tastes. On value, a couple say it outclasses bigger names, while one finds the pricing hard to justify.

Most praised

  • Generous sector lume adds character5 of 6
    • Fratello Delighted by the abundant lume, which is seen as improving the period dial.Furlan Marri transforms a period-perfect dial for the betterRead it in context
    • Worn & Wound Gives the Celeste extra credit for bright white lume along the sector lines.the Celeste gets extra points for the use of a very bright white BGW9 lume compoundRead it in context
    • WatchGecko Feels the lume lines between sectors give the dial a more modern feel.brings makes them feel more aesthetically modernRead it in context
    • Time+Tide Enjoys the playful lume tracks, which lean into the sci-fi flying-saucer theme.With this whimsical lume, Furlan Marri has really leaned into the sci-fi connotationsRead it in context
    • Jag's Watches Considers the old-radium lume great and a source of character.The loom is great. It's something that gives the watch a little bit more characterWatch from 2:29
  • Reinterprets vintage rather than copying it5 of 6
    • Worn & Wound Values that the brand plays with vintage expectations rather than copying.they aren’t making one to one recreations of anything in particularRead it in context
    • Time+Tide Sees it as a respectful reinterpretation rather than a copy.They’re not one-for-ones, but rather respectful pastiches.Read it in context
    • Jag's Watches Considers it vintage-flavoured without feeling like a reissue or costume piece.without being a reissue or a cosplay piece. This feels original.Watch from 1:29
    • WatchGecko Believes the bold lume and upsized case distinguish it from typical homage watches.make this vintage revival stand out from your average homage watchRead it in context
    • Fratello Describes the design as refreshingly new yet familiar.it is refreshingly new but feels familiarRead it in context
  • Warm salmon and brown two-tone dial4 of 6
    • Fratello Considers the two-tone dial well judged, with complementary bronze-brown and salmon tones.complement each other exceedingly wellRead it in context
    • WatchGecko Finds the salmon and brown tones combine into a warm, rich look.the salmon and brown hues work together beautifully to create a warm and rich aestheticRead it in context
    • Jag's Watches Praises how the brown and salmon two-tone dial plays with light.brown and salmon which plays with the light outrageouslyWatch from 1:59
    • aBlogtoWatch Loves the warm, characterful Havana colourway that stands out on the wrist.a cohesive, warm, and deeply characterful look that demands attentionRead it in context
    • WatchGecko Picks the Havana as the favourite of the three colourways.Havana Disco, my favourite of the threeRead it in context
  • Tiered case with interplay of surfaces4 of 6
    • Fratello Finds the bezel's two brushed flat bands give the case an architectural quality.giving the case an architectural qualityRead it in context
    • Fratello Enjoys the sweeping curvature of the tiered round case.delightfully sweeping curvature of the tiered round caseRead it in context
    • Worn & Wound Likes the multi-step case detailing, which sets it apart from flatter vintage examples.it works well visually in my opinionRead it in context
    • aBlogtoWatch Likes the contrast of concave bezel and convex case surface in how they catch light.adding an unexpected complexity to the way this design plays with the lightRead it in context
    • Jag's Watches Appreciates how the case is understated at first but transforms once noticed.This is a case design that doesn't really shout at you, almost whispers.Watch from 1:29
  • Wears compactly thanks to lugless form4 of 6
    • Worn & Wound Considers it perhaps the smallest-wearing 38mm watch, and counts that as a strength.It might be the smallest wearing 38mm watch I can think ofRead it in context
    • aBlogtoWatch Says the lugless form makes it wear light, elegant and very compact.the wearing experience is light, elegant, and extremely compactRead it in context
    • Time+Tide Sees the absence of a real lug-to-lug as a big advantage for true-to-size wear.meaning it wears very true to sizeRead it in context
    • Fratello Calls it a wrist gem, with a dial area similar to a 34–35mm vintage piece.I found this watch a real wrist gemRead it in context
  • Exceptional movement finishing for the money4 of 6
    • Worn & Wound Finds the movement finishing well beyond what the price would suggest.a lot better than what anyone has a right to expect on a watch at this price pointRead it in context
    • aBlogtoWatch Calls the hand-finishing of bridges and components deeply impressive at this price.a deeply impressive level of finishing for a watch in this price bracketRead it in context
    • Jag's Watches Believes the movement finishing outclasses brands charging far more.This is finishing on a level that embarrasses some bigger brandsWatch from 3:26
    • Time+Tide Believes it sets a high standard for finishing.setting a high bar for finishing and flairRead it in context
    • Time+Tide Praises the redesigned bridges and their fine finishing.The 7001’s bridges have been redesigned and beautifully finishedRead it in context
    • Time+Tide Sees details like the polished crown wheel as showing exceptional delicacy.demonstrate exceptional delicacy and value-addRead it in context
Show 19 more
  • Intricate, finely executed sector dial3 of 6
    • aBlogtoWatch Finds the layered sector dial both intricate and refined.creating a layout that manages to be both intricate and refinedRead it in context
    • Time+Tide Considers it the brand's most intricate dial and finds it very attractive.The Disco Volante has Furlan Marri’s most complex dial yetRead it in context
    • Worn & Wound Finds the dial crisp and well executed in both colourways.Everything is crisp and well executedRead it in context
  • Comfortable and natural on the wrist3 of 6
    • Fratello Says the watch instantly feels at home on the wrist.that intangible quality of instantly feeling at homeRead it in context
    • Worn & Wound Found wearing it for a week very pleasant, reminiscent of a vintage watch.having a watch of this size on my wrist is just very pleasantRead it in context
    • Jag's Watches Finds it very comfortable, preferring to wear it snug.Watch from 4:53
    • Jag's Watches Feels weightless on the wrist yet has strong visual presence.It feels like you're wearing nothing, but looks like you're wearing everything.Watch from 5:21
  • Supple, well-made leather straps3 of 6
    • aBlogtoWatch Finds the included brown leather strap light, thin and supple.light, suitably thin, and impressively suppleRead it in context
    • Jag's Watches Finds the leather straps supple and contouring to the wrist.Watch from 4:53
    • Time+Tide Likes the tumbled leather uppers with matching stitching.All feature pleasant tumbled leather uppers with tone-on-tone stitchingRead it in context
    • Jag's Watches Gives the straps a perfect score.the straps are 10 out of 10 for meWatch from 5:21
  • Brushed outer tracks add texture2 of 6
    • Worn & Wound Appreciates the brushed hour and minute tracks for adding texture.the hour and minute tracks have been given a nice brushed finishRead it in context
    • WatchGecko Likes how the brushed outer tracks set themselves apart from the matte centre.the outer tracks have a metallic brushed finish that distinguishes them nicelyRead it in context
  • Upsizing the vintage shape to 38mm is sensible2 of 6
    • Worn & Wound Considers sizing the vintage case shape up to 38mm a smart move for modern wearers.Furlan Marri has done something smart with their version of the Disco VolanteRead it in context
    • WatchGecko Considers the move up to 38mm a sensible update for modern tastes.Furlan Marri have sensibly sized up to 38mm to cater to modern preferencesRead it in context
  • Slim profile despite layered construction2 of 6
    • aBlogtoWatch Finds the case pleasingly slim despite its layered construction.Despite the tiered case structure, the Disco Volante is handsomely slimRead it in context
    • Time+Tide Appreciates the slim profile of just under 9mm.It is, however, rather thin at just under 9mm tall.Read it in context
  • Hidden lugs give a smooth lugless look2 of 6
    • WatchGecko Likes the lugs tucked under the case for a lugless look.The lugs of the Disco Volante are hidden from above, cleverly tucked beneath the caseRead it in context
    • Jag's Watches Likes the hidden lugs creating a smooth, uninterrupted edge.hidden lugs that make it feel like it's melting on your wristWatch from 0:59
  • Pleasant, old-fashioned manual winding2 of 6
    • Fratello Appreciates the calibre's vintage simplicity and pleasant manual winding.I’m a big fan of its vintage simplicity and sweet-winding qualitiesRead it in context
    • Jag's Watches Enjoys the romance of manual winding.Watch from 3:26
  • Thin calibre enables vintage-like slimness2 of 6
    • Time+Tide Values that the thin movement lets the watch match the slimness of vintage pieces.allows the Furlan Marri Disco Volante to match the thinness of vintageRead it in context
    • Jag's Watches Calls the thin movement elegant, reliable and beautiful.elegant, reliable and crucially beautifulWatch from 3:26
  • Proven calibre that is practical to service2 of 6
    • Worn & Wound Sees the proven manual-wind calibre as well suited to this watch.feels like a great choice for a watch like thisRead it in context
    • Time+Tide Notes the calibre is much easier to service than vintage alternatives.while being exceptionally easier to serviceRead it in context
  • Carries the brand's own design language2 of 6
    • Worn & Wound Sees the sector dial as a calling card of the brand's design language.now feels like a calling card of Furlan Marri’s house design languageRead it in context
    • Time+Tide Notes the dials clearly carry the brand's own design language.these dials are unmistakably Furlan Marri in their designRead it in context
  • Bold departure from the existing catalogue2 of 6
    • Fratello Was genuinely surprised that the brand did not simply riff on its existing catalogue.the new Furlan Marri Disco Volante genuinely surprised meRead it in context
    • aBlogtoWatch Praises the brand for choosing a bold revival rather than playing it safe.Rather than playing it safe, however, Furlan Marri uses its newest product lineRead it in context
  • Rare and distinctive shape2 of 6
    • aBlogtoWatch Considers the design unique and richly detailed.a unique, richly detailed designRead it in context
    • Jag's Watches Notes very few watches on the market share this shape.very few are shaped in this wayWatch from 0:59
  • Carefully considered, intentional design2 of 6
    • aBlogtoWatch Credits the design with carefully considered proportions and a wealth of visual detail.adds a wealth of visual detail, carefully considered proportionsRead it in context
    • Jag's Watches Feels every design element is intentional and carefully composed.Everything just feels intentional from a design perspective.Watch from 0:29
    • Jag's Watches Identifies the design as the watch's greatest strength.that is its superpower, the design for sureWatch from 5:51
  • Blends vintage and contemporary eras2 of 6
    • WatchGecko Praises the mix of vintage-inspired traits with fresh modern touches.couples them with refreshing contemporary twistsRead it in context
    • Time+Tide Calls it an ideal blend of classic and contemporary design eras.the perfect blend of classic and contemporaryRead it in context
  • Outclasses rivals and bigger names at the price2 of 6
    • aBlogtoWatch Says movement and finishing quality beat nearly all rivals at the price.finishing quality that outstrips nearly everything at this price pointRead it in context
    • Jag's Watches Believes it betters many bigger-name brands at this price.this watch is better than a lot of the bigger brandsWatch from 4:25
    • Jag's Watches Considers it not overpriced given what is delivered.for what you're getting on paper it's not overpricedWatch from 3:56
  • Polished needle hands and applied markers1 of 6
    • Fratello Highlights the curved needle-tipped hands and applied markers as standout polished details.they stand out as polished detailsRead it in context
  • Redesigned bridges make the calibre distinctive1 of 6
    • aBlogtoWatch Appreciates that the redesigned bridges make the calibre far from generic.its presentation here is far from off-the-shelfRead it in context
  • Far more attainable than vintage originals1 of 6
    • Time+Tide Finds it much more attainable than vintage Disco Volante pieces.it’s a lot more accessible to the average watch enthusiastRead it in context

Most criticised

  • Too small for larger wrists or bold tastes2 of 6
    • aBlogtoWatch Warns it will be difficult for people with larger wrists.a challenging proposition for larger wristsRead it in context
    • WatchGecko Suggests it won't suit those wanting a chunkier watch with more presence.probably not for you if you prefer a chunkier watch with more wrist presenceRead it in context
  • Modest power reserve and stock performance2 of 6
    • aBlogtoWatch Notes performance is unchanged from stock, with modest reserve and no hacking.performs in line with its off-the-shelf counterpartsRead it in context
    • Time+Tide Finds the 42-hour power reserve underwhelming, though an acceptable compromise.its underwhelming 42-hour power reserveRead it in context
  • Recessed crown makes winding fiddly2 of 6
    • WatchGecko Finds the crown, recessed into the bezel, hard to wind.unfortunately it is a little tricky to wind from this positionRead it in context
    • WatchGecko Repeats in the conclusion that the crown is fiddly.Granted, the crown is a little fiddlyRead it in context
    • Jag's Watches Finds the integrated crown attractive but makes manual winding more difficult.That makes it beautiful to look at, but it makes it a little bit more difficultWatch from 3:26
  • Hidden lugs complicate aftermarket strap swaps2 of 6
    • aBlogtoWatch Warns the hidden lugs make fitting aftermarket straps difficult.finding an alternative strap that would fit these lugs would be a struggleRead it in context
    • WatchGecko Notes the hidden lugs make strap swaps a little trickier.it might be a little bit trickier to change the strapRead it in context
  • Lume is weak despite unusual execution1 of 6
    • aBlogtoWatch Considers the lume weak, though unusual in its execution.a weak but unorthodox glow in low lightRead it in context
  • Polished indices can look out of place1 of 6
    • aBlogtoWatch Feels the three polished indices can look out of place from some angles.can make these indices feel slightly out of place from certain anglesRead it in context
Show 2 more
  • Fragile water resistance rating1 of 6
    • aBlogtoWatch Describes the water resistance rating as fragile.rates the watch for a fragile 50 meters of water resistanceRead it in context
  • Hard to justify microbrand pricing1 of 6
    • Jag's Watches Personally struggles to justify spending over £2,000 on a microbrand.difficult for me to justify spending over £2,000 on a Microband watchWatch from 4:25

Open a point to see who said it and jump to that moment in their review.

By aspect

PositiveMixedNegative

How reviewers judged each aspect; one square per reviewer who discussed it
DialPraised
Case & proportionsPraised
WearabilityPraised
OriginalityPraised
MovementPraised
DesignPraised
Bracelet & strapMostly liked
Finishing & buildPraised
FunctionalityCriticised
ValuePraised
VersatilityMostly liked

Was this consensus useful?

The reviews

6 counted, 1 more for context

Remontoir summarises; the reviewers did the work. Watch and read the originals for the full picture.

Jag's Watches

The Sexiest Watch I Have Ever Reviewed.

Video, 8 minHands-on reviewDec 2025

Very positiveRecommends, with caveats

An enthusiastic review calling it the most beautiful, sensual watch the reviewer has handled, praising the case, dial, finishing and straps. The only reservations are the fiddly integrated crown for winding and a personal hesitation about spending this much on a microbrand. Rated 8–9 out of 10.

Suits: Design and finishing lovers wanting a tasteful, neo-vintage manual-wind dress watch

Disclosure: Brand loaner

What they said, point by point
Designpositive
  • Feels every design element is intentional and carefully composed. 0:29
  • Identifies the design as the watch's greatest strength. 5:51
Originalitypositive
  • Notes very few watches on the market share this shape. 0:59
  • Acknowledges the line draws on earlier Audemars Piguet and Patek designs. 0:59
  • Considers it vintage-flavoured without feeling like a reissue or costume piece. 1:29
Case & proportionspositive
  • Appreciates how the case is understated at first but transforms once noticed. 1:29
  • Likes the hidden lugs creating a smooth, uninterrupted edge. 0:59
Dialpositive
  • Praises how the brown and salmon two-tone dial plays with light. 1:59
  • Considers the old-radium lume great and a source of character. 2:29
  • Found themself repeatedly staring at the dial during the loan period. 2:29
Finishing & buildpositive
  • Describes the polished chamfer as soft and warm to the touch. 1:59
  • Believes the movement finishing outclasses brands charging far more. 3:26
Movementpositive
  • Calls the thin movement elegant, reliable and beautiful. 3:26
  • Enjoys the romance of manual winding. 3:26
Functionalitymixed
  • Finds the integrated crown attractive but makes manual winding more difficult. 3:26
  • Says it is unsuitable for those wanting high water resistance or a rugged watch. 6:20
Bracelet & strappositive
  • Finds the leather straps supple and contouring to the wrist. 4:53
  • Gives the straps a perfect score. 5:21
  • Appreciates the easy quick-release strap changes. 5:21
Wearabilitypositive
  • Finds it very comfortable, preferring to wear it snug. 4:53
  • Feels weightless on the wrist yet has strong visual presence. 5:21
Versatilitymixed
  • Suggests it suits dates, weddings and evenings more than the office. 5:51
  • Calls it a solid dress watch addition to a collection. 7:17
Valuemixed
  • Considers it not overpriced given what is delivered. 3:56
  • Believes it betters many bigger-name brands at this price. 4:25
  • Personally struggles to justify spending over £2,000 on a microbrand. 4:25
Compared with
  • Furlan Marri Salmon Sector: Was impressed by the Sector, but feels the Disco Volante goes further.
  • Patek Philippe 6070: Cited as a design inspiration for the Disco Volante line.

Watch on YouTube

WatchGecko

Hands-On with the Furlan Marri Disco Volante

ArticleHands-on reviewSep 2024Safie Agar-Hutton

PositiveRecommends, with caveats

The reviewer is won over by the Havana's sector dial and finds the collection a well-executed modern revival of the disco volante style. Caveats are a fiddly recessed crown, a small, dainty wrist presence, and slightly trickier strap changes.

Suits: Modern collectors who like sector dials and don't need a chunky watch

What the review says, point by point
Dialpositive
  • Finds the salmon and brown tones combine into a warm, rich look.
  • Feels the lume lines between sectors give the dial a more modern feel.
  • Likes how the brushed outer tracks set themselves apart from the matte centre.
  • Notes the dial looks small next to a typical 38mm watch with visible lugs.
Case & proportionspositive
  • Considers the move up to 38mm a sensible update for modern tastes.
  • Likes the lugs tucked under the case for a lugless look.
Functionalitynegative
  • Finds the crown, recessed into the bezel, hard to wind.
  • Repeats in the conclusion that the crown is fiddly.
Wearabilitymixed
  • Says the larger case suits bigger wrists much better.
  • Warns it wears smaller than expected because of the lugless look.
  • Suggests it won't suit those wanting a chunkier watch with more presence.
Bracelet & strapmixed
  • Notes the hidden lugs make strap swaps a little trickier.
  • Reassures that many suitable replacement straps are available.
Designpositive
  • Picks the Havana as the favourite of the three colourways.
  • Praises the mix of vintage-inspired traits with fresh modern touches.
Originalitypositive
  • Believes the bold lume and upsized case distinguish it from typical homage watches.

Read on watchgecko.com

Worn & Wound

Review: the Furlan Marri Disco Volante

ArticleHands-on reviewAug 2024Words By Zach Kazan

Very positiveRecommends

Sees the Disco Volante as a smartly upsized take on the Art Deco flying-saucer case that wears small but pleasantly. The reviewer praises the stepped case, crisp sector dials with playful lume, and movement finishing beyond expectations for the price.

Suits: Open-minded wearers, even with larger wrists, who appreciate smaller vintage-style watches

Disclosure: Brand loaner

What the review says, point by point
Case & proportionspositive
  • Considers sizing the vintage case shape up to 38mm a smart move for modern wearers.
  • Likes the multi-step case detailing, which sets it apart from flatter vintage examples.
  • Notes the stepped design doesn't add any real heft or wrist presence.
Wearabilitypositive
  • Considers it perhaps the smallest-wearing 38mm watch, and counts that as a strength.
  • Found wearing it for a week very pleasant, reminiscent of a vintage watch.
  • Warns it won't suit those who want a watch spanning their whole wrist.
Dialpositive
  • Appreciates the brushed hour and minute tracks for adding texture.
  • Finds the dial crisp and well executed in both colourways.
  • Gives the Celeste extra credit for bright white lume along the sector lines.
Movementpositive
  • Sees the proven manual-wind calibre as well suited to this watch.
Finishing & buildpositive
  • Finds the movement finishing well beyond what the price would suggest.
  • Tempers the praise by noting the finishing isn't spectacular.
Originalitypositive
  • Sees the sector dial as a calling card of the brand's design language.
  • Values that the brand plays with vintage expectations rather than copying.
  • Notes the lugless disc case concept has been used by many brands before.

Read on wornandwound.com

aBlogtoWatch

Hands-On Debut: Furlan Marri Disco Volante Watch

ArticleHands-on reviewJul 2024Sean Lorentzen

PositiveRecommends, with caveats

A richly detailed, slim revival of the lugless disco volante style with class-leading movement finishing for the price. The reviewer notes a weak lume, fragile water resistance, basic movement performance and limited strap options, and warns it suits smaller wrists best.

Suits: Smaller-wristed enthusiasts wanting a distinctive vintage-style dress watch

Disclosure: Brand loaner

What the review says, point by point
Designpositive
  • Credits the design with carefully considered proportions and a wealth of visual detail.
  • Finds it full of quirky vintage charm on smaller wrists.
Case & proportionspositive
  • Likes the contrast of concave bezel and convex case surface in how they catch light.
  • Finds the case pleasingly slim despite its layered construction.
Wearabilitymixed
  • Says the lugless form makes it wear light, elegant and very compact.
  • Notes it feels far smaller on the wrist than a traditional 38mm case.
  • Warns it will be difficult for people with larger wrists.
Dialpositive
  • Finds the layered sector dial both intricate and refined.
  • Loves the warm, characterful Havana colourway that stands out on the wrist.
  • Considers the lume weak, though unusual in its execution.
  • Feels the three polished indices can look out of place from some angles.
Movementmixed
  • Appreciates that the redesigned bridges make the calibre far from generic.
  • Notes performance is unchanged from stock, with modest reserve and no hacking.
Finishing & buildpositive
  • Calls the hand-finishing of bridges and components deeply impressive at this price.
Functionalitynegative
  • Describes the water resistance rating as fragile.
Bracelet & strapmixed
  • Finds the included brown leather strap light, thin and supple.
  • Warns the hidden lugs make fitting aftermarket straps difficult.
Originalitypositive
  • Praises the brand for choosing a bold revival rather than playing it safe.
  • Considers the design unique and richly detailed.
Valuepositive
  • Says movement and finishing quality beat nearly all rivals at the price.

Read on ablogtowatch.com

Fratello

Hands-On With The New Furlan Marri Disco Volante — An Intricate Dress Watch With A Different Take On Vintage

ArticleHands-on reviewJul 2024Thor Svaboe

Very positiveRecommends

Finds the Disco Volante a surprising, bold and charming take on the vintage flying-saucer design. The reviewer praises its two-tone dial, the unexpected lume and the curvy tiered case, and calls it a comfortable daily wearer for desk-bound owners.

Suits: Desk-based wearers who enjoy vintage circular dress watches with a twist

What the review says, point by point
Dialpositive
  • Considers the two-tone dial well judged, with complementary bronze-brown and salmon tones.
  • Highlights the curved needle-tipped hands and applied markers as standout polished details.
  • Delighted by the abundant lume, which is seen as improving the period dial.
  • Acknowledges that purist collectors may object to adding lume to a dressy design.
Case & proportionspositive
  • Finds the bezel's two brushed flat bands give the case an architectural quality.
  • Enjoys the sweeping curvature of the tiered round case.
Wearabilitypositive
  • Says the watch instantly feels at home on the wrist.
  • Calls it a wrist gem, with a dial area similar to a 34–35mm vintage piece.
  • Warns that the absence of visible lugs could feel confusing to some wearers.
Movementpositive
  • Appreciates the calibre's vintage simplicity and pleasant manual winding.
Versatilitypositive
  • Thinks the lume makes it more than a dress piece and suitable for daily wear.
  • Suggests leaving it at home for rough, hands-on jobs like carpentry.
Originalitypositive
  • Was genuinely surprised that the brand did not simply riff on its existing catalogue.
  • Describes the design as refreshingly new yet familiar.

Read on fratellowatches.com

Time+Tide

The Furlan Marri Disco Volante revives a retro-futuristic case design in a more accessible, adventurous format

ArticleHands-on reviewJul 2024Jamie Weiss

Very positiveRecommends

The reviewer sees the Disco Volante as a near-ideal modern take on the vintage flying-saucer format. It blends 1930s case and dial design with playful sci-fi lume and fine movement finishing, and costs far less than vintage originals. The short power reserve is the only real knock.

Suits: Enthusiasts wanting a dressy yet funky vintage-style shaped watch

What the review says, point by point
Designpositive
  • Calls it an ideal blend of classic and contemporary design eras.
  • Enjoys that it manages to be dressy and playful at once.
Case & proportionspositive
  • Admires the bright polish, which gives a pebble-like look on the wrist.
  • Notes that 38mm is modest today but big next to vintage examples, despite the brand's small-size aims.
  • Appreciates the slim profile of just under 9mm.
Wearabilitypositive
  • Sees the absence of a real lug-to-lug as a big advantage for true-to-size wear.
Dialpositive
  • Enjoys the playful lume tracks, which lean into the sci-fi flying-saucer theme.
  • Considers it the brand's most intricate dial and finds it very attractive.
Bracelet & strappositive
  • Likes the tumbled leather uppers with matching stitching.
  • Considers leather straps true to the vintage references.
Movementpositive
  • Values that the thin movement lets the watch match the slimness of vintage pieces.
  • Notes the calibre is much easier to service than vintage alternatives.
  • Finds the 42-hour power reserve underwhelming, though an acceptable compromise.
Finishing & buildpositive
  • Praises the redesigned bridges and their fine finishing.
  • Sees details like the polished crown wheel as showing exceptional delicacy.
  • Believes it sets a high standard for finishing.
Originalitypositive
  • Sees it as a respectful reinterpretation rather than a copy.
  • Notes the dials clearly carry the brand's own design language.
  • Calls it close to the perfect embodiment of the Disco Volante idea.
Valuepositive
  • Notes the price is a notable jump for the brand.
  • Finds it much more attainable than vintage Disco Volante pieces.
Compared with
  • Audemars Piguet ref. 5093: Identified as the vintage model that most inspired this design.

Read on timeandtidewatches.com

Also covered by

Caseback Watches

Furlan Marri Disco Volante – Classy Like A 60s Flying Saucer! // Watch of the Week. Review 218

Video, 5 minReactionAug 2024

Positive

A brief overview of the new Disco Volante. The reviewer praises its elegant 1940s-style proportions, detail quality, lume and decorated movement, while noting the design is heritage-driven rather than inventive and the price is fair rather than a bargain.

Not a review of the watch in hand (news, a guide or a reaction), so it isn't counted.

What they said, point by point
Designpositive
  • Praises the very elegant forms and fine sense of proportion evoking the 1940s. 1:07
Originalitymixed
  • Considers the layout, hands and scales not especially inventive and seen on many vintage watches. 1:34
  • Sees the design as dictated by heritage but with a strong focus on detail quality. 1:34
Finishing & buildpositive
  • States the brand's quality holds up even under a magnifier, crediting top Swiss watchmaker collaborations. 2:04
  • Sees clearly that the watch is not an off-the-shelf product. 2:33
Dialpositive
  • Praises the fine Super-LumiNova line and resulting distinctive night-time appearance. 2:33
Case & proportionspositive
  • Appreciates the integrated crown that preserves the case form. 2:33
  • Notes 38mm is big compared with originals of this type, which were rarely over 34mm. 2:33
Wearabilitypositive
  • Says the integrated crown offers a very comfortable wearing experience. 2:33
Movementpositive
  • Calls the movement a beauty with beautiful handmade decoration. 3:03
Valuemixed
  • Considers the price normal given the details, components and overall design. 3:32
  • Believes the brand has now raised prices after earlier aggressive pricing. 3:32

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Specifications

Reference
20205
Case
38mm, 316L stainless steel
Thickness
8.95mm
Movement
Peseux 7001 (bridges redesigned and hand-finished) (manual)
Power reserve
42 hours
Water resistance
50m
Crystal
sapphire with AR and anti-fingerprint coatings; sapphire display caseback
Bracelet or strap
two leather straps plus a herringbone steel mesh bracelet (20/16mm, curved quick-release bars)
Announced
July 2024
List price (US)
$2,780US$2,780 at launch (aBlogtoWatch and Fratello, July 2024

Creator Consensus is built only from what reviewers said. Prices, retailers and any commercial relationship never affect it. How consensus works