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Model Name:
Ball Engineer III Marvelight Burgundy
Watch added to favourite list
Reference:
NM9026C-S27C-RDR
Price ($)
$
2450
Country:
Switzerland
A.I. Rating
7.8
Crowd Rating:
1629
Watch Description
https://timeandtidewatches.com/hands-on-the-ball-engineer-iii-marvelight-chronometer-40mm/
BALL are a bit of an oddity in the hierarchy of Swiss watches, having enjoyed such a rich history but not always getting the attention they deserve. They’re not exactly a budget brand, but their prices are definitely reasonable, so they fit into a very versatile pocket of luxury. Having been updated with three fresh colour options, the BALL Engineer III Marvelight Chronometer 40mm could easily be a contender for a one-watch collection, or at least an incredibly durable daily wearer that looks and feels like quality.
As a watch based around simplicity and subtlety, the 40mm case is presented entirely in a highly polished finish. Although BALL’s history is steeped in engineering and toughness, this watch is far more aimed at those who want a luxury object that can withstand the rigours of daily wear.
The use of 904L stainless steel ensures not only an increased resilience to tarnishing, but also retains a more brilliant polish. The sides of the case are the best example of this effect, proving an almost distortion-free mirrored image. You definitely get the impression that this is a nice watch right away, and 100m of water resistance is enough to make it completely versatile without the need for over-the-top specs or aggressive tool-watch stylings.
The BALL Engineer III Marvelight dial isn’t shy about its similarity to the modern Datejust, although it’s the differences which make it undoubtedly its own watch with its own character. The BALL personality of technical prowess and precision is evidenced by a sleek dauphine handset, the elaborate counterweight on the seconds hand, and the depth of the applied indices. The new available sunburst colours are all delectable, one being a sumptuous dark green, a lighter blue, and a decadent wine-red fumé.
What sets this company apart from most other Swiss brands is the use of tritium gas tubes in place of painted Super-Luminova, providing a constant glow regardless of how much UV the watch has been exposed to. You can see the tubes, although they’re more like glass boxes, surrounded by a silver frame that creates a nice sparkle as the light catches all of the edges. The glow of the indices and hands are all green with the exception of the 12 o’clock marker which is more of an orange-red.
40
46.6
20
12.45
100
Steel - 904L
Round
Sapphire
Screw-in
Automatic
BALL RR1103-C
0
Burgundy
A.I. Watch Review:
<p class="font_8"># Ball Engineer III Marvelight Burgundy Model NM9026C-S27C-RDR Review by A.I. WatchMetrics
## Watch Summary
The Ball Engineer III Marvelight Burgundy is a striking timepiece that blends classic design with modern functionality. Classified under the **Casual/Everyday** style, this watch is versatile enough for both professional and relaxed settings. It features an automatic movement with a power reserve of approximately 38 hours, making it suitable for daily wear without frequent winding. The watch is intended for individuals who appreciate robust engineering and a touch of elegance, with its burgundy dial adding a unique flair. Notable for its tritium gas tubes, the watch offers exceptional legibility in low-light conditions, appealing to those who value practicality and style.
## Overall Watch Rating: 7.8/10.0
- **Functions Metric (9.0/10.0)**
The watch excels in functionality with features like 100m water resistance, high-quality lume from tritium gas tubes, and a transparent caseback that showcases the movement. These features enhance its practicality for everyday use.
- **Movement Metric (8.5/10.0)**
Powered by the Ball RR1103-C automatic movement, this watch offers reliable performance and COSC certification, ensuring precision. While not groundbreaking, the movement's robustness and accuracy are commendable.
- **Dials & Design Metric (8.5/10.0)**
The burgundy dial with applied markers and a date function is both elegant and functional. The design is well-executed, with a unique color that stands out, though it remains within the bounds of classic watch aesthetics.
- **Material Metric (8.0/10.0)**
Constructed with stainless steel, the watch offers durability and a polished finish. While the materials are standard for its class, the quality of finishing elevates its appeal.
- **Versatility Metric (8.0/10.0)**
The watch's design and features make it suitable for a variety of settings, from casual outings to more formal occasions, though it lacks the specialized features for extreme sports or travel.
- **Brand Metric (7.5/10.0)**
Ball is recognized for its innovation in legibility and durability, particularly with its use of tritium gas tubes. However, it does not have the same level of prestige as some luxury brands.
- **History & Innovation Metric (7.5/10.0)**
Ball's history of innovation in railroad watches and its focus on legibility and durability contribute positively, though the model itself does not introduce groundbreaking innovations.
- **Rarity Metric (7.0/10.0)**
While not a limited edition, the unique dial color and Ball's niche appeal add a moderate level of exclusivity.
- **Complications Metric (6.5/10.0)**
The watch includes basic complications such as a date function, which are standard for its category, without any advanced features.
## Celebrity and Historical Figures
Ball watches have been associated with precision and reliability, often favored by professionals in demanding fields. While no specific celebrities are known for wearing this model, the brand's reputation for durability and innovation in legibility makes it a popular choice among engineers and adventurers.</p>
