In the watch world, micro-brands can be a bit of a minefield for consumers. Questions abound, and without the opportunity to walk into a boutique and try the product on, we find ourselves questioning if taking a risk on a new watch is worth it, even at a more affordable price point when compared with the big boys of Swiss and Japanese watchmaking. But sometimes you just have to take a leap, and so I did with the Dryden Chrono Diver Series 1.

I’m happy to report that it was the right move. When I discovered it on Instagram, this particular Dryden Chrono Diver Series 1 immediately caught my eye with its reverse panda dial, all-black case, robust chrono pushers, and white indices that gave off a look of patina in a certain light. All of the ingredients were there for a fun and bold watch to wear when I felt like making a bit more of a statement, without being too large or gaudy (42mm case size).

After doing some research and chatting with the super-responsive Dryden team, I learned that the brand was launched in 2019 and that its watches are fully assembled in the U.S. For a man who loves Timex, but laments that they’ve long since ceased production in Connecticut (my home state), this purchase is a great reminder that high-quality watch manufacturing is still possible here at home.

That’s really what I’m most impressed with when it comes to the Dryden Chrono Diver Series 1: the build quality, especially at under $300. Its rubber strap is incredibly comfortable on the wrist, while still feeling robust enough to take a beating, with its design leaning more toward a racing strap than traditional sport. The high-quality finishing on the subdials contrasts quite nicely with the tachymeter and being that it’s a combination diver and chrono, the watch also features a uni-directional bezel. The awesome clicking action on the bezel is hands down my favorite part of the watch.

There are a few drawbacks with the Dryden Chrono Diver Series 1 such as the movement on the chronograph hand, which could be a little smoother, and the fact the large pushers can sometimes dig a bit into my hand. But I’m being a bit nitpicky here. Overall, I’m having a blast with this watch and I’m thrilled with its quality.