As someone who has purchased multiple timepieces from sustainable watchmaker Original Grain, I often get asked whether they live up to the hype. Short answer – yes, most definitely! But with so many styles and customizations to pick from, it helps set realistic expectations.
That‘s why I put together this comprehensive shopping guide detailing everything potential customers could want to know. I‘ll provide tips to find your perfect match, insider advice on the brand‘s offerings, plus policies and promotions not to miss.
An Overview of Original Grain as a Brand
Founded in 2013 by brothers Ryan and Andrew Beltran, San Diego-based Original Grain sets itself apart through quality craftsmanship and a dedication to eco-conscious materials. They repurpose reclaimed wood and steel into fashionable yet functional wristwear for both men and women.
Having visited their flagship store and owned multiple OG watches myself, I‘m impressed with the brand‘s consistent attention to detail. They‘ve also racked up some serious credentials, including:
- 175k Instagram followers
- Featured in over 100 top media outlets like Forbes and Los Angeles Times
Another key aspect setting them apart is their commitment to sustainability. Original Grain uses scrap wood destined for landfills and gives it renewed life. The natural imperfections make each finished watch totally unique. Beyond sourcing reclaimed barrels, crates and more, they use recycled watch packaging and contribute profits to forest conservation efforts.
Overview of Watch Collections
Grouped into six collections ranging wildly in aesthetic, Original Grain‘s watches start around $150 ranging upwards of $650.
Alterra Chrono – Designed with adrenaline junkies and outdoor adventurers in mind. Incorporates chronograph functionality.
Barrel – Nods to whiskey and wine culture through repurposed barrels. Warm, masculine energy.
Classic – Sophisticated styles channeling refined luxury. At home with a suit as well as relaxed attire.
Minimalist – Unfussy and intentional in simplicity. void of anything extraneous.
Grainmaster – Bold, striking watch faces amplified by assertive lines and shapes.
Pilot-Zulu – Takes cues from aviation and military influences. Emphasis on precise tactical detailing.
Now that you have the lay of the land, let‘s explore some of their bestselling watches showcasing the range of styles…
10 Must-See Original Grain Watch Models
With new releases continually adding to the 150+ existing watch models, Original Grain seamlessly blends natural wood elements with stainless steel cases and bands.
Squared versus rounded edges, chronograph functionality, accent colors and material mixing all expand the possibilities. Below I call out 10 standout timepieces that most intrigued me:
1. Whiskey Barrel Espresso Watch
Hands down one of their most iconic men‘s styles, this incorporates reclaimed oak from retired bourbon barrels. The rich backstory prevents waste while the espresso case and band exude refined ruggedness. At 46mm it makes a substantial wrist statement.
Price: $439
2. Rosewood Black Classic Watch
With its 43mm case, this actually works nicely as unisex piece. The inky metal band plays well against the red-hued tropical rosewood inlay. Black and wood is a combo that‘s equal parts warm and modern.
Price: $306
3. Koa Stonewashed Minimalist Watch
Understated and elegant, the Koa Minimalist gets added visual interest from the active grain of Hawaiian Koa wood. At 40mm, it has a delicate presence on smaller wrists. The neutral beige and grey colorway provides an ideal canvas for layering other accessories.
Price: $159
4. Brewmaster Chrono Watch
For beer enthusiasts, the Brewmaster Chrono offers subtle ornamentation by incorporating reclaimed German oak beer barrel wood. The warm brown leather band plays up the casual flair. At 44mm with chronograph dials, it makes a statement while avoiding a bulky feel.
Price: $279
5. Zebrawood & Gold Barrel Watch
Contrast seems to be the underlying theme with the Zebrawood & Gold Barrel watch. Striking black and brown wood grain stands out against bright 18k gold plating on the case and band. The 36mm size gives it a more delicate yet still bold presence.
Price: $439
6. Ebony & Brass Bangle Watch
For those drawn to vintage inspired style, the Ebony & Brass Bangle exudes old Hollywood glamor. Smooth ebony wood pairs with a slender profile and dainty 32mm art deco style watch face. The adjustable bangle style fits wrists big and small.
Price: $266
7. Oak & Stonewashed Silver Watch
Masculine in essence yet versatile enough for all, this watch features a 45mm case with reclaimed whiskey barrel American oak wood panels. The distressed metal band and large knurled crown subtlety play up its rugged appeal.
Price: $439
8. Walnut & Rose Gold Avalon Watch
Pretty without being overly delicate, the Walnut & Rose Avalon watch would work for a variety of personal styles. Sustainably sourced black walnut wood pairs nicely with the blush gold steel case and slimmer watch band. The clean face keeps focus on the rich wood grain.
Price: $252
9. Navy Blue Ammo Crate Field Watch
Military inspired field watches are having a major moment for everyday wear. ThisMODEL incorporates wood reclaimed from retired ammunition crates used by NATO forces. The 44mm case size is substantial yet avoided bulky territory thanks to the narrow band and clean cream dial.
Price: $199
10. Green Sandalwood Minimalist Watch
Proof that simplicity can be striking, this watch speaks volumes by saying very little at all. Splashes of olive green enliven the blond sandalwood grain. Elongated roman numerals lend a vintage sensibility. The slim 40mm case and leather strap keep the look tidy.
Price: $159
After reviewing dozens of Original Grain‘s watches firsthand, I‘m continually impressed with how unique each style manages to feel. They strike an ideal balance between showstopping and subdued.
Next let‘s go over the full range of customization options so you can make it truly your own…
How to Customize Your Original Grain Watch
With so many component choices, it would take ages to try on every possible iteration (though I wish I could!). To hone in faster on your perfect match, here are all the elements you can customize:
Wood Type – Select from over 20 wood varieties like zebrawood, koa, ebony, bamboo and more with differing grain patterns, colors and textures.
Steel Color – Match the case and band to your style mood with finishes like black, rose gold, brass, silver and gunmetal.
Strap or Bracelet – Bands come in metal link, leather, silicone and nylon. Each material has its own vibe. Leather offers a refined feel while stainless steel bracelets skew more sleek and contemporary.
Face Size – Cases range from dainty 32mm for a feminine presence all the way up to substantial 47mm for wrist-covering impact. Ensure you pick the right proportions for your body frame.
Complications – Choose a simple 3-hand watch or upgrade to chronograph models with stopwatches, moon phase windows or calendar date functions.
Once you select the bezel, dial markers and handset variations, the design possibilities truly feel endless. It can feel overwhelming but I promise you CAN‘T go wrong. Now let‘s go over some savvy tips for navigating the process…
Expert Tips for Picking Your Perfect Watch
Through trial and error with my own Original Grain collection, I‘ve learned a few helpful tricks along the way. Here is my best advice for newbies:
Band Size Matters
Measure your wrist size accurately with a flexible tape measure. Round up to the nearest half inch if between sizes. The diagram below illustrates where to take the measurement:
Match your wrist circumference to Original Grain‘s size chart to pick the right band length and lugs width for ideal fit and proportions. Ill-fitting bands ruin the aesthetic and comfort no matter how beautiful the watch face itself.
As a rule of thumb, smaller wrists under 6 inches suit petite 32-36mm watch cases. Average wrists around 6-7 inches can pull off 36-42mm models. Larger wrists over 7 inches do well with 42-47mm sizing. Why does this matter? You want to avoid extreme overhang or a comically undersized face.
Mind the Movement
Quartz movement watches powered by batteries average under $500 while mechanical watches with intricate inner workings can run over $1,000. Quartz movements keep very precise time but require occasional battery replacement. Automatics rely on your wrist‘s motion to keep ticking meaning you have to wear it daily.
If grabbing a classic modeled quartz Original Grain for under $350, don‘t expect the buttery smooth sweep of spokes you see on $5k Rolexes. For the price, Accuracy and performance meet expectations. Their automatic watches do rival luxury brands thanks to sourcing quality Miyota movements.
Bezel Bling
Some watch faces incorporate gemstone embellishment for extra allure. This includes genuine diamonds or more affordable sparkle through jewels like swarovski crystals. If going for an everyday style, I‘d avoid blinged out bezels which can read overly flashy or formal. But for a special occasion watch to make a glittering statement, why not!
Mind Metals
Consider your jewelry wardrobe when selecting a metal finish. Do you wear yellow or white gold? Silver or platinum? I‘d match the watch to your existing pieces. Love mixing metals? Opt for two-tone combos with some watches offering both gold and silver steel elements.
Rose gold pairs well with all skin tones. The warmth of brass amplifies darker wood grains. Black cases and bands ground lighter beige woods. Go with whatever speaks to YOU.
Care Over Wear
All watches require thoughtful care, but wood elements have extra vulnerabilities. Ensure model chosen is water resistant enough for expected activities and weather.
Stick to damp cloth cleaning over household cleaners to prevent drying out the wood. Let bands fully dry before wearing to avoid trapped moisture and bacteria buildup. Oiling wood elements annually maintains rich patina. Consider watches with scratch resistant sapphire crystals which fare far better than mineral options.
How Original Grain Compares to Competitors
The wood watch category has grown exponentially with Original Grain leading the trend. So how does it stack up against similar sustainable brands?
Overall I‘d say their offerings edge out competitors across metrics like materials quality, stylistic versatility and pricing. For instance:
Jord uses cheaper quartz movements with loud ticking in some models. Layouts also skew a bit boring. Original Grain offers huge diversity at the same $200-$300 price points – chronographs, minimalists, jewelry inspired etc.
WeWood relies more on plaatics and non-natural materials. Their Miyota powered automatics run $700 which is steep. OG automatica start around $400.
MTW Collective has very limiting customization options. Most styles hover in the $400+ range. Original Grain gives endless combos all well under $500.
Treehut uses mainly less unique wood types like bamboo or ash. Original Grain incorporates exotic sustainable materials like zebrawood, koa and ebony. Much more refined finishing as well on OG.
For shoppers wanting a true high quality wood timepiece built to last years, I always point to Original Grain first. Simply can‘t beat the quality-to-cost ratio. Plus unparalleled variety to suit any individual. But as with any brand, inspect the warranty and return policies closely…
Original Grain Warranty, Repairs and Returns
Return Policy
Original Grain offers returns within 14 days for a full refund back to your original payment method assuming the watch remains unworn with all protective stickers and tags still intact.
Within 30 days, you can exchange for store credit or another model based on availability. Beyond 30 days, no returns are allowed aside from defective watches falling under the warranty policy below:
Warranty
All non-engraved watches come with a 12 month manufacturer’s warranty covering mechanical flaws and defects. It does NOT apply to routine wear-and-tear or accidental damage caused by things like water immersion or drops.
Repairs
If watches get damaged outside the scope of the 1 year warranty, Original Grain does provide repair services. Start by filling out their online form detailing the issue. You‘ll then get emailed next steps specific to your model‘s needs.
Turnaround times average 1-2 weeks for servicing. Keep in mind certain intricate repairs like replacing watch movements may cost upwards of a few hundred dollars.
Where To Buy Original Grain Watches
The most robust inventory and latest releases come directly from OriginalGrain.com. Their Amazon storefront has limited editions as well but pricing is identical if buying new condition.
Sites like eBay and Poshmark let collectors resell pre-owned and vintage Original Grain models. Stock fluctuates but you can find steep 50%+ discounts if willing to buy secondhand.
Their showrooms located in hotspots like San Diego and Coronado offer personalized guidance plus access to small batch collaborations rarely listed online. Appointments advised to get dedicated specialist attention:
San Diego Showroom
1205 J St
San Diego, CA 92101
Coronado Showroom
1339 Orange Ave
Coronado, California 92118
No matter where you choose to shop, thoroughly inspect each component first and don‘t rush into a choice just because it‘s marked down. Price means nothing if the watch doesn‘t completely resonate with your personal style. Which brings me to my final verdict…
Are Original Grain Watches Worth The Cost?
In my experienced opinion – absolutely! Dollar for dollar, you‘ll struggle to find better made wood watches blending quality craftsmanship with sustainable ethics. I‘ve yet to be disappointed by performance, accuracy or aesthetics.
That said, Quartz models use standard battery powered Japanese movements so don‘t expect buttery smooth performance on par with Swiss automatics. But they keep precise time as promised. qualaiy
For me the eco-conscious elements make them worth cost. Rather than chopping more trees, these watches prevent usable lumber from ending up discarded. The unique wood grain also makes each piece totally unique.
Beyond recycling materials, they reuse watch packaging, donate to forests conservation, and hundreds plant trees with each order through their partnership with OneTreePlanted nonprofit.
Finally, the sheer diversity of styles offers literally thousands of combinations to fit any taste or budget. So yes – I wholeheartedly recommend Original Grain for shoppers wanting a wood watch they can feel good about inside and out!
I hope this guide gave you tons of helpful info to find your dream wood watch match. Let me know in the comments if any other questions pop up along your journey to purchasing your own iconic Original Grain timepiece.
