Kuoe Old Smith Owner Review : Elegant, gorgeous and different

Kuoe Kyoto, Old Smith bronze, 38mm, automatic, made in Japan. I'd been eyeing them since a trip to Japan but hadn't been won over because of the 35mm models usually on offer. Looking for a Christmas gift to myself, I took another look at this brand. Bingo! Three retailers in France, including one in Toulouse! I was able to go to a store, avoiding the uncertainties of online ordering, to see the one I liked and which was actually available. And there...it was love at first sight. Even prettier than in the photos. Perfect size, textured brown dial, applied numerals, Luminova, no date, screw-down crown, khaki NATO strap, a bronze case that will develop a patina over time, and a Seiko NH38 caliber...I was completely charmed. The only downsides are the yellow PVD metal buckle and the price increase in the last year. Elegant and understated, it's a truly great buy and a crowd-pleaser.