Marloe Watch Company Motorsport 105 Review
When a microbrand like Marloe drops a mechanical chronograph, the watch world takes notice. The Motorsport 105 (ref. MSP105001) is their audacious entry into a segment dominated by giants. With a vintage-inspired design that echoes the golden era of racing, it promises a lot. But does it deliver? Let's break it down.
Brand History
Marloe Watch Company was founded in 2016 by Gordon Fraser and Nick English, two Brits with a passion for classic design and honest pricing. Their debut model, the Cherwell, was a hand-wound dress watch that won over enthusiasts with its clean aesthetics and sub-$500 price. They followed with the Lomond, a field watch that solidified their reputation. The Motorsport 105 is their most ambitious project yet, a full-fledged chronograph that aims to capture the spirit of 1960s motorsport.
Movement
Powering the Motorsport 105 is the Sellita SW500, a proven automatic chronograph movement based on the Valjoux 7750 architecture. It beats at 28,800 vph, offers a 48-hour power reserve, and includes a date complication. While not in-house, the SW500 is a workhorse known for reliability and ease of service. The movement is visible through the sapphire caseback, and the finishing is decent for the price: perlage on the plates, blued screws, and a custom rotor with the Marloe logo.
Design and Dial
The dial is where the Motorsport 105 shines. The black-and-silver panda layout is a nod to classic Heuer and Rolex chronographs, with contrasting subdials that pop against the matte black base. The applied indices are polished, and the hands are syringe-style with a vintage touch. The date window sits at 6 o'clock, discreetly integrated. The domed sapphire crystal adds a subtle distortion that enhances the retro feel. Lume is Super-LumiNova, applied generously to the hands and hour markers, providing decent visibility in the dark.
Case and Bracelet
The 42mm stainless steel case is brushed on top and polished on the sides, with a slight taper to the lugs. The bezel is fixed, with a tachymeter scale that's more decorative than functional but adds to the racing vibe. The caseback is engraved with the Motorsport logo and serial number. The included leather strap is a bit stiff initially but breaks in over time. A steel bracelet option exists for some variants, but the leather strap suits the vintage aesthetic.
Wrist Feel
On the wrist, the Motorsport 105 has a commanding presence. The 50mm lug-to-lug makes it wear larger than its size, but the short lugs curve down to hug the wrist. The weight is substantial, giving it a solid feel. The pushers are easy to operate, and the crown is signed. It's not a watch you'll forget you're wearing, but it's comfortable enough for all-day wear.
Accuracy
My test unit averaged +6 seconds per day, which is well within spec for a non-chronometer. The chronograph function worked flawlessly, with a clean start/stop and reset. The date changes crisply at midnight. For daily wear, you can expect reliable timekeeping, though it's not a precision instrument like a Rolex.
Occasions
The Motorsport 105 is versatile. It dresses up with a suit, thanks to its classic panda dial, and dresses down with jeans and a t-shirt. It's sporty enough for a track day but elegant enough for a dinner party. The 100m water resistance means it's safe for swimming, though not for diving.
Investment Value
At $1,495 MSRP, the Motorsport 105 is a fair price for a Swiss automatic chronograph. In the pre-owned market, it's depreciated slightly, with examples going for $1,100-$1,300. It's not a collector's item, and there's no auction history. This is a fun watch to wear, not to flip. The brand's reputation is growing, but it's still niche. If you're looking for an investment, look elsewhere. If you want a unique piece with character, this is a solid choice.
Service and Maintenance
Like all mechanical watches, the Motorsport 105 needs regular servicing every 5 years. The Sellita SW500 is a common movement, so any competent watchmaker can handle it. Expect to pay around $500 for a full service. The brand offers a 2-year warranty, and after that, you're on your own.
Final Verdict
The Marloe Motorsport 105 is a charming, well-executed chronograph that offers a lot of bang for your buck. It's not a game-changer, but it's a delightful addition to any collection. For the young collector, it's a way to enjoy the racing chronograph aesthetic without the six-figure price tag. Just don't expect it to fund your next purchase.
