I'm quite particular about certain things when it comes to my personal style, and watches are one of them. After my longtime wristwatch was finally rendered unrepairable, the search began for a replacement. I knew I wanted to invest in a good one, but I didn't want to spend more money than I could reasonably afford, and it was hard to find one that really suited me. I wanted something that was stylish but classic, as well as something that was truly unique, and something that was elegant but not so extravagant I'd feel worried about wearing it every day. After a few years of fruitless searching, I'd pretty well given up finding what I was looking for--until I came across the Vortic site. It wasn't just what they were doing with the watches--it was their entire philosophy of restoration and pride in artisanal craftsmanship at all stages. It was an appreciation for history, a dislike of waste, and a desire to see good things restored to lived purpose. I'd missed the "build your own watch" period but was confident that the "watch a day" process would eventually reveal the watch for me. And when I saw the Chicago 381, there was no question! I'd been waiting--and saving--for months, and I was ready. Click--bought!--and then on its way to Canada. I obsessively pulled up the profile page for the watch every day until it's arrival. Would it look as good in person? Could the reality ever match my anticipation?
Communications with the Vortic crew were quick and easy. (As an important side note, Vortic customer service is first rate! There was a bit of a mixup with Customs duties at the border, but RT and Bella were on it immediately, and they sorted everything out.) Then, in just over a week, my package had arrived. The watch was in a beautiful wooden case, and the reveal was almost as much an event as examining the watch itself!
But the highlight was the watch, and what a watch it is, even better than I could have imagined. The photos were excellent, but they don't capture the subtle shifts in light on the mother-of-pearl-style watch face, or the deep hue of the crimson strap (which looks more rust-coloured on the website); I also purchased a tobacco strap as an alternative, but so far I've kept the crimson one on, as it works with more of my outfits than I'd anticipated. The watch is lighter than it looks, and the size, while bigger than most wristwatches, isn't at all out of proportion to my wrist. The Art Deco details are exquisite, and the open back's 17-jewel movement really stands out. One thing I was pleasantly surprised with was the subtle sound of the ticking--I'm so used to non-wind watches, but this return to a real watch with a real movement is welcome.
I've had the watch nearly a month now, and I can say without any exaggeration that this is the best watch I've ever owned; it's also the only watch I've had where strangers offer appreciative comment. Couldn't be happier with the purchase, and can't recommend the work and the professionalism of the Vortic crew highly enough. If you've been looking for a stylish, heirloom-quality timepiece at an accessible price point--and one with a history, a story, and a presence--then give Vortic a close look. You won't be disappointed!
From purchase to delivery, the transaction was handled fantastic! They quickly helped me with swapping of the buckle before shipping and the watch arrived very quickly. Packaged very well and I am very happy with my purchase. Will buy from again!
Rockford watches in 12s are hard to find. I was delighted to find such a lovely exemplar in pristine condition!
Definitely one of the finest and most unique watches you can purchase. Really a value for the price when you look at other well known branded watches around the world.
I received my watch, Springfield 318, and I was ecstatic to open the box and see it. This was the culmination of many months of waffling back and forth--should I purchase an Illinois Watch Co. as a means of commemorating my Grandfather and my Dad's family history from Illinois? My Grandfather, who was born in 1886, had an Illinois Watch Co piece that has since disappeared in some of the family archives, but having a watch with the Illinois name would serve as a reminder of the family heritage, even if it wasn't his actual watch.
I'm happy to say that the Springfield 318 is an amazing and beautiful timepiece, and I made the right decision in going ahead with the purchase. It is hard to believe that the softly ticking mechanism on my wrist was originally put together over 100 years ago, but it still keeps precise time.
The combination of the flat dial finish, with the bright silver glint from the engine turned accents really catch the eye. Readability is good, with the blued, Breguet-style hands, although the minute hand is very thin and sometimes requires a second look to see where it is. The band is excellent quality, fits well, and looks great with the black finish on the case. The only way I could suggest improving it would be a deployant clasp, rather than a buckle closure.
The construction and fit and finish are top notch--it is a joy to wear this piece of mechanized art. Winding it each morning is a ritual which reinforces a value that things should be built to last and taken care of.
Thanks for a wonderful watch, and for the memories it will continue to carry forward for me and my family.
I love the watch! Is a great compliment to my other Vortic watch.
I first saw Vortic at an art show in late 2019 and loved the concept. After discussing it with my wife and finding the perfect watch to submit, I designed my own watch. I am very happy with the end product and people have been complementing me on it. I hope to do another one in the future!
I was impressed with the craftsmanship and delivery of my Vortic watch. The condition of the watch exceeded my expectations in every way. I will enjoy this watch for life. And, you can't have just one, can you...
I bought one two years ago and it still looks like new! The rustic trucker look is great and I'll definitely buy more for friends!
Fantastic and incredibly comfy T Shirts - all my family loved them!
It is the exact watch that I always pictured me wearing. A classy, worn, distressed, vintage timepiece. A piece of American History that I am honored to own and wear daily! I've put the Seiko, Citizen, & Tags away!
Just bought this pocket watch - awesome! I was looking for a Ball Watch and this offered the gorilla glass front and back. Trust me.. when you hold it in your hand the quality of the case and lever set cannot be beat.
Thanks so much for holding, then delivering my Ts while I was out of town. They are proudly part of my regular shirt rotation now. Comfortable and make an outstanding statement.
Probably one of the best quality t-shirts I've ever purchased; it's incredibly soft. Happy to support a great company as well.
Ordered Vortic’s T-Shirt during their last sale. Other than, great company, great watches, great customer service what else could I say other than, Great T-Shirt. Material, color, fit and finish is super!
This is my third vortic watch, first was a railroad edition, next the military edition, and now american artisan. The watch movement has nice engraving and the face as well.
Vortics are my favorite watches. Each is unique. Each is owning a piece of history. Each is beautifully designed and executed. I love their watches.
I bought the shirt because I love to represent Vortic and hope to start conversations about watches by having the logo and slogan on. I was very surprised to find out the t-shirts are very soft and comfy. Additionally, the shirt has washed up very well and didn't shrink at all. If there were different designs I'd buy a different one for every day of the week!
