Lorier Astra Review: A 36mm Case Study in Minimalism

1 WATCH

The Lorier Astra

A 36mm Masterclass in Restraint and Proportion

The Astra is Lorier’s most refined model—at 36mm, it wears with old-school ease and modern focus. Its luminous ring, sleek baton indices, and domed Hesalite crystal give it the silhouette of a vintage Polerouter, but the soul of a field watch. It’s the kind of piece that doesn’t need rotating bezels or bold colors to impress. It wins on feel alone.

QUICK SPECS

• Movement: Miyota 9015 (Automatic, 42-hour power reserve)

• Case Material: 316L Stainless Steel

• Crystal: Domed Hesalite

• Water Resistance: 100 meters

• Dimensions: 36mm case, 11mm thickness (including crystal), 44mm lug-to-lug

• Bracelet: 20mm flat-link stainless steel bracelet, tapering to 16mm

WHY IT’S INTERESTING

Most modern watches don’t dare go under 38mm. The Astra not only does—it thrives there. It pulls design DNA from some of the greatest mid-century watches ever made, but it’s built to modern tolerances with real-world utility: 100m WR, screw-down crown, and a legit tool-watch build. This is a case study in how less really can be more.

VERDICT

[ ] Hard Pass
[ ] More Style than Substance
[ ] Desk Diver Special
[ ✅ ] Sleeper Hit
[ ] Mission Ready

A refined everyday watch with no fluff, no filler—just great design.

2 TACTICS

Insights into staying off the grid and on time.

🔏 Why 36mm Still Works (and Always Will)

In a world obsessed with oversized everything, downsizing your watch is a quiet rebellion. A 36mm case fits under cuffs, feels balanced, and reflects a more intentional kind of style. You don’t need bulk to make a statement—just proportions that work. (This is one of my personal favorite watch sizes)

⏳ Daily Wind Check for Automatics

Wearing a watch daily? Great. But even automatics need motion. If your Astra feels like it’s lagging, give it a gentle 15–20 turns in the morning. It’s a ritual, not a chore—and keeps the rotor from doing all the work on slow days.

3 GEAR PICKS

Gear up with essentials that keep you prepared-no batteries required.

Leather Minimalist Wallet – Tan

A minimalist card wallet crafted from full-grain leather with a natural patina over time. Its slim profile and rich tone reflect the Astra’s less-is-more design philosophy—purposeful, elegant, and everyday-functional.
🔗 Click here

Propper Men’s Tactical Pants – Olive

Durable, structured, and mission-capable without looking too “tactical.” These pants pair well with everything from field watches to understated vintage pieces like the Astra. Clean lines and ample utility for daily carry.
🔗 Click here

NutSac Sling Bag – Waxed Canvas

Made in the USA and built like gear should be—no logos, no frills. This waxed canvas sling is compact, discreet, and works as an analog EDC setup for those who appreciate timeless materials. (yes, this is the real name of this company)
🔗 Click here

DEBRIEF

A small watch with big presence

The Astra feels like the kind of watch passed down through generations—but built for this one. In a sea of oversized divers and tech-heavy wrist clutter, it’s a reminder that restraint is still power.

V/R,
The Desk Watcher

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