Trafford Watch Co continues to carve its own path with timepieces that are as distinctive in their design as they are accessible in their price point. Their latest offering, the Crossroads Prickly Pear, priced at a compelling $699, is no exception. This watch draws its inspiration from the resilient beauty of the Prickly Pear cactus, a plant that thrives in the harsh landscapes of the southern United States and northern Mexico, its vibrant blooms a striking contrast to its thorny exterior. This dichotomy of ruggedness and vibrant life is subtly woven into the very fabric of the Crossroads Prickly Pear.
The case of the Crossroads is instantly recognisable, boasting a unique profile with a gentle curve along its top edge. This design element is not merely aesthetic; it’s a thoughtful nod to the “crossroads” of life, those pivotal moments that present new horizons and opportunities. This curved “horizon line” is a recurring motif throughout the watch’s design, subtly appearing in the sides of the case, the rotor of the movement, and even the buckle of the strap.
However, it’s the dial of the Crossroads Prickly Pear that truly captures the eye. This latest iteration takes the vibrant colour palettes the series is known for to a new level. Around the periphery of the dial, a mesmerising texture catches and reflects the light, creating a dynamic interplay that mimics the radiating petals of wildflowers. This intricate, interlocking weave of chamfered angles offers a visual depth rarely seen at this price point. Contrasting this textured outer ring is a sandy-textured centre, providing a subtle yet effective visual separation. Enhancing legibility are raised numerals that add a tactile dimension to the dial.
Powering the Crossroads Prickly Pear is the highly regarded Miyota 9039 automatic movement. This reliable workhorse, favoured for its robustness and accuracy, beats at a smooth 28,800 vibrations per hour, allowing the seconds hand to glide effortlessly around the dial. It also features hacking seconds for precise time setting and a 48-hour power reserve.
Adding a touch of bespoke detail is a custom rotor, visible through the caseback. Each movement is meticulously regulated in-house to an impressive accuracy of +/- 10 seconds per day, a testament to Trafford Watch Co’s commitment to quality. Complementing the watch is a supple Italian suede leather strap, chosen for its comfort and durability. As a playful touch, Trafford has included custom illustrations printed on the interior of the straps, adding a hidden layer of personality.
When darkness falls, the Crossroads Prickly Pear truly shines, literally. The hands, numerals, and hour markers are generously coated with BGW9 Swiss Super-LumiNova, the industry benchmark for luminescence. The strong, consistent glow extending the full length of the hands not only ensures excellent readability in low light but also becomes an integral part of the watch’s nighttime aesthetic.
For those seeking an even more integrated look, an optional custom-made bracelet in 316L surgical-grade steel is also available, featuring a secure deployant clasp and easy-to-adjust screw-in links. The Trafford Watch Co Crossroads Prickly Pear is a vibrant and thoughtfully designed timepiece that offers a unique blend of natural inspiration, distinctive aesthetics, and reliable performance, all at an undeniably attractive price.
It’s a bold statement for those who appreciate a watch with character and a story to tell.
