by Brent Robillard

Two heads are better than…

Independent watchmaking has always thrived on collaboration. But sometimes, the most exciting partnerships come not from opposite ends of the world, but from just around the corner. That’s precisely the case with the new VARIO x RZE UltraHex™ Trench, a 100-piece limited edition that represents the first collaboration between the two Singapore-based brands. On one side, you have VARIO—best known for its vintage-inspired charm, thoughtful dial work, and bund-style straps. On the other, RZE—an outfit that has carved out a reputation for ultra-light, ultra-rugged titanium tool watches. The result is something that feels both familiar and completely fresh.

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Key Features of the VARIO x RZE UltraHex™ Trench Medallion Yellow

First Impressions

When I first opened the red RZE x Toyo toolbox (a clever nod to the utilitarian spirit of the watch inside), I was struck by just how bright the Medallion Yellow enamel dial really is. Photos capture the tone well enough, but in person, it’s more radiant, more glossy, more… alive. The enamel sits over a textured base that dances in the light, giving the dial real depth and a slightly vintage character. That playful pop of colour, combined with RZE’s stark titanium casework, creates an immediate tension between old and new—exactly the balance this watch is aiming for.

The Case: RZE’s Signature UltraHex™

The case is pure RZE in VARIO silhouette. At 37mm across and just 10mm thick, it wears effortlessly. Titanium gives it a surprising lightness, and RZE’s UltraHex™ coating keeps it far more scratch-resistant than standard grade 2 or 5 titanium. The sharp bevels, the slightly squared-off lugs, and the compact 45mm lug-to-lug all add up to a case that feels technical yet balanced. On the wrist, it disappears in terms of weight but remains visually striking thanks to the bright dial.

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The 2mm double-domed sapphire crystal amplifies the enamel’s gloss, and the inner anti-reflective coating keeps legibility sharp even outdoors. Around back, a titanium caseback hides the movement while keeping the total weight featherlight.

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The Dial: Medallion Yellow Enamel

This is the showpiece. Vario’s contribution to the collaboration really shines here. The Medallion Yellow enamel dial is bright and glossy, with depth that shifts under changing light. Applied markers filled with C3/BGW9 lume glow with authority.

The handset feels classic VARIO, but set against RZE’s more modern case it takes on a new attitude. There’s a subtle playfulness here that I think a lot of collectors will appreciate—it’s colourful without being gimmicky.

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Movement: Miyota 82s5 Gilt

Inside beats the Miyota 82s5 automatic, complete with hacking and hand-winding. While it’s not a movement meant to compete with Swiss prestige calibres, it’s reliable, serviceable, and made more attractive here with gilt finishing and Côtes de Genève decoration. It ticks away at 21,600 vibrations per hour and carries a 40+ hour power reserve. For a watch at this price point and philosophy, it’s exactly the right choice.

Strap & Wearability

Out of the box, the Trench comes fitted with a crazy horse leather strap and bund pad. Normally, I’m cautious about bund pads—they can feel bulky or overly retro—but on this watch it makes sense. The yellow dial pops against the darker leather, and the extra layering makes the relatively small 37mm case feel a bit more substantial. Still, the watch wears very easily, and thanks to the titanium, it never feels heavy. The 18mm lug width also makes strap swapping simple.

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Packaging

Collectors will appreciate the limited-edition red RZE x Toyo toolbox that serves as packaging. It’s fun, practical, and immediately sets this apart from your usual watch box. Another example of the collaborative spirit here—it feels like a watch designed by enthusiasts, for enthusiasts.

Specs

Case	Titanium 37mm Diameter 45mm Lug to Lug 10mm Thick 18mm Lug Width Screw Down Crown & Case Back 100m Water Resistance
Dial & Crystal	Domed Sapphire Crystal Yellow Enamel Dial Printed Indices Cathedral Hands C3/BGW9 Super-LumiNova®
Movement	Miyota 82s5 21 Jewels 21 600bph 40-Hour Power Reserve
Strap	Kicking Horse Leather Bund

VARIO x RZE UltraHex™ Trench Medallion Yellow

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Final Thoughts

The VARIO x RZE UltraHex™ Trench Medallion Yellow isn’t just a collaboration for the sake of a new colourway. It’s a true meeting of philosophies: Vario’s vintage-inspired design language colliding with RZE’s modern engineering. The enamel dial is full of character, the titanium case is light and tough, and the proportions hit a sweet spot for everyday wear.

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Pricing & Availability

It’s also a celebration of what’s happening in Singapore’s watch scene right now. Both brands are part of a wave of independent watchmaking that’s earning international respect, and this collaboration is proof that “local” innovation can be world-class. With just 100 pieces available, the Medallion Yellow will go quickly—and for collectors who manage to secure one, they’ll have something that feels both forward-looking and proudly rooted in place. The watch retails for approximately $616 CAD. Check it out on the brand(s) website!

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About the author

Brent Robillard is a writer, educator, craftsman, and watch enthusiast. He is the author of four novels. You can follow him on Instagram.

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