I was looking for an affordable, quality field watch for longer than I’m willing to admit. There are plenty of simple field watch options available, but I find that most of them try to look vintage but end up looking very modern because the execution and details are off. But this Serica Ref. 6190 Commando is not like that, it’s clear that it was inspired by field watches from the ’50s, but it’s a field watch built for today.

I picked the Commando version because I find the dial with Roman numerals the most balanced of all options. When I got it, I was really impressed by how the watch looks and feels - the finish of the case and how smooth and satisfying it is to turn the crown, especially considering the price (990€).

The size of the watch is great. The stainless steel case measures 38mm in diameter, 10.4mm in thickness, and 46.5mm lug to lug, so it will fit almost all wrist sizes. The watch comes on a stainless steel bracelet they call Bonklip (the bracelet was also inspired by those used on field watches from the ’50s), and it’s one of the most comfortable bracelets I’ve ever tried. I have to admit that at first I wasn’t sure about the aesthetic of this bracelet, but I changed my mind after wearing it a few times. And even though most of these watches will never go deeper than a meter, they’re water-resistant up to 200m, so you don’t have to worry about getting them wet. The movement is COSC-certified and has a 42-hour power reserve.

It’s already been six months since I got this watch, and I’ve worn it more than I thought I would. I really like its aesthetic - especially the shape and the polished finish; I catch myself looking at it more often than I need to. I also love the size, although making it 1 or 2mm smaller might make it even better.

It looks great paired with sand suede Molquin Strap.

I got suede and leather straps for the watch because I wasn’t sure about the bracelet, but I ended up wearing it more on the bracelet, because it’s really, really comfortable and versatile — even though it also looks amazing on the sand suede Molequin strap. I planned to order a NATO strap as well, but I still haven’t taken the time to research all the options (your recommendations are always welcome). I do plan to get one eventually.

It works great with casual oufits and workwear, but pairs well also with more elegant looks.

Even though it’s a field watch, it turned out to be more versatile than I expected. Of course, it looks best with casual outfits, especially when paired with military pieces, but it also works well with smarter looks, and putting it on a leather or suede strap makes it a bit more elegant. I even wore it with a suit, but in that case, I have to admit it didn’t feel right, even on a leather or suede strap. Which got me thinking - is it because of the shape or the Commando dial? I think it’s the latter. It felt off because the Commando version, with its black dial and Roman numerals, has a military appeal that’s a bit too strong to wear with a suit.

Serica Ref. 6190-2 M.S.L. in Polar White

But I’ve really enjoyed wearing it so much that I even asked myself: could this be a do-it-all watch, or what watch enthusiasts call a one-watch collection? My answer is - it depends on the dial you choose. I believe the Ref. 6190 could be a do-it-all watch if you choose the Polar White dial version. I think this one would even work with a suit if you pair it with a nice leather strap.

To be completely honest, after six months, I enjoy and appreciate this watch even more than I did when I first got it. I’m still impressed by how good it feels every time I put it on my wrist and by how much watch you get for the price. I think it’s one of the best watches at this price point - it’s a great option if you’re looking for an affordable, quality daily wearer.

Have you tried any Serica watches yet? Let me know your thoughts.