For over a decade, Curren has been churning out watches that occupy a particular niche in the world of affordable watches. It doesn't claim to be on par with Swiss movements or Japanese super-luxury movements. It does, however, consistently and fairly deliver on the basic promise to buyers who seek an attractive, functional wristwatch, but who don't want to pay for a mid-luxury or luxury timepiece. Knowing what Curren does, what it does well, and what it cannot do is the best place to start from when looking for a Curren watch.
This article will walk you through the entire decision-making process: evaluating whether you have a need for a watch, how to choose the right model from Curren's categories, what to look for when you receive your new watch, what you can expect from owning the watch for the next one to three years and how Curren compares against its real competitors. This is not a sales pitch. This is a breakdown of what you are purchasing and if it's right for you.
The Good and the Bad of Curren
Curren is a Chinese watch brand that has created a large portfolio of quartz, chronograph and fashion watches, mostly aimed at the lower end market (between $15 and $60 USD in most countries). They are distributed online all over the world, with a strong presence in South Asia, the Middle East, Latin America and Southeast Asia, markets where consumers are searching for a watch that looks stylish while retaining an affordable price tag.
The movement in most Curren watches is a typical quartz movement, typically sourced from Japan (Miyota) or China, depending on the model. These movements have an accuracy range of plus or minus 15-30 seconds a month under standard operating conditions, which is adequate for daily wear. They are not automatic, not Swiss lever escapements, and not suitable for collectors who are interested in finishing of movements. For someone who wants a reliable timepiece and a watch that is acceptable for a variety of occasions, it's satisfactory.
Curren's case materials are generally stainless steel alloys, with some cases or case backs being made from zinc alloys. Models with stainless steel cases, such as the CUR155 (which is completely made with steel), are more durable and less susceptible to rusting. Zinc alloy cases are lighter but more susceptible to wear on points of contact, and are cheaper to manufacture; this allows Curren to offer more dial variants at lower prices.
What Curren does best is deliver attractive designs. Curren offers watches that appear much more expensive than they actually are. Dial surfaces, hand styles and faces are highly calculated to look appealing and most consumers report their Curren Watch is looked at with envy by those who think it is more expensive than it is.
What's in a Curren Watch Category?
Before you decide which model to buy, it's helpful to know how Curren categories its watches, and what makes one collection different to another in practice.
Men's Dress Watches
Men's dress watches collection suitable for formal and semi-formal occasions. These watches are usually slim in weight and thickness, have simple dials with few complications, leather or leather-like straps, and have case sizes ranging from 38mm to 42mm. They suit work, formal occasions, business, and other settings where the watch must look like a part of the ensemble - that is, a business suit or dress shirt - rather than a distraction.
The most important aspect to consider in this watch type is the strap. Most of Curren's leather-style straps on their basic dress watches are PU leather or bonded leather, rather than genuine full grain leathers. These products appear good on pictures and acceptable for the first 6-12 months of regular wear, but will start showing cracks and peeling along the fold line after prolonged wear, especially in tropical climates. If you are purchasing a Curren dress watch and plan to wear it more than three days a week, budget for a replacement strap (genuine leather or NATO) after one year.
The all-steel versions of the dress watches are much more wear-resistant. The bracelet will not corrode like leather straps, and the steel band adds a degree of weight to the watch that makes it more substantial.
Men's Sports Watches
The men's sports watches have larger case sizes (44mm to 48mm), rubber or silicone straps, sometimes push-button or screw-down crowns, and dials that feature luminous hands, date windows and sometimes even subdials.
The key consideration when buying a Curren sports watch is the water resistance. The majority of watches claim 30 meters of water resistance. 30m water resistance is equivalent to being able to withstand splashes and light rain. It cannot be used for swimming, showering or any other type of submersion. The gaskets used in these watches can protect the watch from casual water exposure but not prolonged submersions. If you are purchasing a sports watch to swim or dive in, Curren is not recommended.
The silicone straps used on Curren sports watches are a great feature. They are cool in hot weather, easy to wash and they are durable, resisting cracking. The main wear points in a watch are the lugs that hold the strap on to the case and these vary in quality both across and within product lines, so inspecting the finish and quality of the strap spring bar at delivery is advised.
Men's Chronograph Watches
Perhaps the most important collection for gauging Curren's brand is the chronograph watches. The Curren chronograph watches are the most popular watches, and also the most misunderstood.
Many Curren chronograph watches have decorative subdials. Subdials are on the dial and add to the complexity of the watch, but they are not linked to a precision stopwatch. The watch has a basic quartz movement and a single crown which sets the time and date. The subdials are fixed and inoperable. This is a common feature of low-cost watches and is completely legal, but many customers who think they are buying a chronograph are often surprised.
The Curren models that do have a functional chronograph usually specify this in the product description, and have a multi-crown system with one crown to control the main timekeeping and pushers at 2 o'clock and 4 o'clock to control the stopwatch. If you are looking for a functional chronograph, make sure to check for the pushers on the side of the case and read the product description carefully.
Thus, while Curren's chronograph watches may not always include a functional stopwatch, they always represent good value for the eye. The dials are nicely proportioned, the case sizes are attractive and these watches are some of the most attractive the brand offers. For those looking for an eye-catching sporty watch to wear on a daily basis, but not necessarily a watch with an active stopwatch, the chronograph collection makes excellent choices, particularly at reasonable prices.
Women's Fashion Watches
The women's fashion watch series is characterised by smaller case sizes (26mm-34mm diameter) and dial designs, rather than functionality. Such watches are often adorned with rhinestones, sporting rose gold cases, mesh bracelets and bare dials.
An example of this kind of watch is the CUR215 Square Green Dial Women's Watch, which has a square case with 2.1cm dial, a unique green dial with applied markers and mesh bracelet. This watch is an example of what Curren does well in women's watches: distinctive design elements that work on the face, at the right price to make it wearable as a daily watch or as a gift. This case shape is not typically found in this price range, which lends the watch a sense of style that appears to be conscious.
Curren women's models with mesh bracelets are well-made for the price. The clasps can be conventional fold-over clasps, or push-button clasps. Links on these bracelets are not removable and thus resizing requires removing links from the bracelet in bulk instead of one at a time, which is best left to a local watch repair shop or jeweler with the right tools.
The CUR155 Full Steel Business Watch: An In-depth Look
The CUR155 Full Steel Business Quartz Watch is worth a closer look as it is Curren's best case for value in the men's category. The watch is constructed around a 40mm stainless steel case with integrated stainless steel bracelet, and has a simple dial with markers and a date window, and a quartz movement. The build quality is good, the length of the case is comfortable to wear on medium to large-sized wrists, and the brushed and polished case and bracelet finish is applied well enough to look like the work of a much higher-end watch.
The most interesting aspect of this watch as a purchase is the bracelet. Cheaper watches often feature a bracelet that is clearly an afterthought, with a space between the bracelet and case at the lugs that makes it look cheap. With the CUR155, the bracelet is seamlessly integrated with the case, a feature that adds to the overall look of the watch.
The dial of this watch is fairly unpretentious. The date window at 3 o'clock can be read, the hands have a basic lume that will enable you to read the time in low light but will not last forever, and the entire face is readably unobtrusive. It's a watch that wears well in the office, is fine for business dinner, and not out of place on the weekends.
The only major downside of this watch, and full steel Curren watches in general, is the adjustment of the bracelet. The clasp has a micro-adjustment facility for one or two positions but to fit the watch properly you need to remove links. As noted above, this is an activity best done with tools. If not handled with the proper tools, the risk of damaging the bracelet through scratching, or link pins through bending, is high.
How to Assess Your Own Need
The most common reason that customers are dissatisfied with their Curren watches is not quality. It's a lack of a fit between what the buyer needs and the type of watch they buy. Asking yourself the questions listed below will help you select a watch you will be happy with.
Workplace and Professional
If you are shopping for a watch that is to be worn mostly in the office, dress watches are the way to go. Consider watches with case sizes of 38mm to 42mm, which are professional but not too large for under the cuff of a shirt. Give preference to all steel watches if durability is important. If you want a strap, expect to invest in a third-party company to replace the PU leather strap that comes with most watches with a genuine leather strap in the first year.
Chronographs are not a good choice for the most formal office environment, unless a statement watch is desired. The larger sizes and complicated dials of chronographs can clash with business formal wear.
Casual and Weekend Wear
Curren's chronograph range and sports range are ideal for casual wear. Models with silicone straps are easy to wear and can be worn through the heat and moisture of exercise. The bigger watch sizes are a good match with casual apparel where watch size is not limited by the cuff of a shirt or sleeve of a jacket.
If you are looking for a small selection of watches to cover various applications, a dress watch model and a sports or chronograph watch model will cover all daily usage with one or other of the two models and can be bought together for a price that is still much less than that of a single mid-level watch from one of the larger watch manufacturers.
Gift Purchasing
Curren watches are increasingly being used as gifts for birthdays, weddings, graduations and career promotions. Their capacity to create watches that appear to be of a much higher value than they actually are makes the watches successful presents in circumstances where the giver aims to provide a "valuable" watch.
For buying as a gift, the New Arrivals line is helpful in giving an idea of current designs that the person may not have. If you are buying several watches as a present for a workplace gift exchange or giveaway, Curren's pricing makes it possible to affordably acquire a number of watches that will look good. The all-steel models work best for this application as they have the greatest appeal across a range of visual tastes, and are also the hardest wearing.
It's worth checking shipping options for gifts at the time of purchase. The collection with free shipping comprises of a number of models in which the shipping costs are covered, which makes budgeting for gift orders easier, especially if ordering multiples.
Inspecting Quality on Receiving: Checklist
Upon receipt of your Curren watch, a systematic check of the watch should take less than five minutes, and would reveal any problems before the return period expires. Here's the typical inspection list based on buyers' complaints.
Case and Crystal
Look for any issues with the case under good light. Check for machine marks that shouldn't be there, or part of the brushed effect, and examine the crystal for transit damage. Mineral glass, typically used in Curren watches, is harder than acrylic and softer than sapphire, so damage can occur during shipping if the watch is not properly protected. If you view the watch from different angles under a light you can see any surface irregularities that photographs won't reveal.
Crown and Pusher Operation
Extend the crown to the time-setting position, and turn it both clockwise and counterclockwise. There shouldn't be any resistance. Carefully pull it back into position and make sure it properly returns to the resting position, not staying partially out. On chronograph models with pushers, push each pusher to check that it has positive action and returns to its default position.
Bracelet and Strap
On bracelet models made with steel, bend the bracelet at the wrist joint and ensure that each link is securely joined and has no noticeable play other than the natural degree of articulation. Test the clasp by engaging and disengaging it a couple of times. A firm click should be heard when it closes and it should take some effort to open. For straps, check the stitching at the strap's end and the quality of the strap's perforation.
Dial and Hands
Examine the dial directly with a strong light source and at a low angle. Dust under the crystal will be visible at a shallow angle and not visible when viewed from above. Small amounts of dust under the crystal are normal in cheap watches and are usually acceptable, but large amounts of dirt or any water (condensation) under the crystal is a return. Be sure that the hands are well seated on their arbors and that the second hand (if present) does not touch the hour and minute hands as it rotates.
Timekeeping Accuracy
Set the watch to a reliable source of time (internet clock connected phone or a GPS clock) and compare the time after 24 hours. A properly working quartz movement watch should over 24 hours, gain or lose no more than 5 to 10 seconds from the reference. If the watch is gaining or losing 30 or more seconds a day to begin with, the movement is likely to be out of tolerance and the watch should be sent back.
Curren Watch Price: What you're Paying For
The cost of Curren wrist watches will differ based on model, vendor and platform. An awareness of how the price points relate to the differences in materials and manufacturing processes can help the consumer budget accordingly.
Most affordable Curren watches ($15-$25) will have zinc alloy or lower-quality stainless steel alloy cases, PU leather straps, and basic quartz movements. These are suitable for light, occasional wear, secondary watches in a rotation or as presents where style takes precedence over durability. If you're going to wear a watch every day, don't expect it to last if you paid $20 for it, no matter the brand.
The sweet spot for Curren watches is the middle price range, $25 to $45. The watches in this range will usually feature better case materials, full steel case (in the higher-end models), improved bracelet hardware and movements with closer tolerances. The CUR155 and other all steel business models are in this price range, and represent the best value for money.
Curren watches above $45 in price typically have more complicated designs, additional complications (such as a working chronograph function) or better finishing on the case and bracelet. The higher price is justified by the higher quality of construction, rather than an increase in retail margin.
When considering curren watch prices original versus third party reseller prices, it is advisable to buy from the original store, if possible. Third-party sites may offer Curren watches at a lower price, but include the costs of delayed delivery, poor packaging or even fake watches. When paying the original Curren watch price at the brand's store, you are assured of quality packaging, documentation and return policy.
One Watch, or a Curren Collection
As an often overlooked part of the Curren value proposition, the company's pricing makes it much easier to build a watch collection than if one were purchasing mid-range or luxury watches. By buying one dress watch, one sports watch (or chronograph) and one casual watch from Curren, the buyer can address all potential use-cases for less than the price of a single mainstream Swiss or Japanese brand watch.
This isn't to say that three Curren watches equal three mid-range watches. They are not. But you're trading away the durability and movement quality benefits of the higher-end watches in exchange for variety and use case diversity. For consumers who like to wear a variety of different watches depending on the use case, but can't afford to drop the coin on multiple quality watches, Curren offers a way to do that.
The scalability angle is also an important one. Curren watches are often a stepping-stone for watch buyers who later purchase more expensive watches. The ability to wear a Curren watch in different case sizes, straps and dial configurations is extremely helpful in determining personal preference before spending more money on a more expensive watch. Many customers report they find wearing a 44mm Curren sports watch helps them figure out they whether they can wear a large case size or not - helpful knowledge to have before laying down $200 or more on a watch.
Where Curren Fits and Where It Doesn't
Skmei, Naviforce, Pagani Design and Megir are Curren's main competitors in the low-end watch market. They are all from the same part of the world, and are roughly in the same price point. When these brands are directly compared, there are some differences.
Skmei is most directly comparable in terms of sports watch features, which may include the correct digital functions and stronger water resistance. Naviforce offers dress and business watches of similar case quality to Curren but with slightly different aesthetics. Pagani Design is at the top end of the low/affordable market with some watches offering sapphire crystals and Seiko NH35 automatic calibres, which technically puts them into a different category than Curren, even though they look similar. Megir's emphasis is on chronograph designs and is a direct rival to Curren's chronograph models.
Curren's point of difference is its design diversity and women's offerings. It has a broader range of women's fashion watches with greater design differentiation than most of its competitors and this helps it compete in the gift market where choice is important.
Curren doesn't compete with Seiko, Citizen, Casio's G-Shock or any Swiss watch brand. Different product for different consumer with different needs. It doesn't make sense to compare a Curren to a Seiko 5 watch because the reasons for buying are different. A Seiko buyer is purchasing a mechanical movement, a longer time frame of ownership and brand name. The Curren buyer wants an eye-catching watch that will keep time for a certain price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Curren watches a good value?
The brief answer is that Curren watches are of good quality for the price range that they are in. Mid-level watches, in particular full stainless steel models, have robust case designs that are durable with normal wear. The quartz movements are reliable and accurate to wear. Quality standards are most evident in the straps of the lowest-priced models, where PU leather starts to show signs of wear after 12-18 months of moderate use and water resistance, where, in practice, the watches are rated conservatively. For the consumer who understands that with a Curren watch, she or he is buying a value fashion watch, not a tool or collectible, Curren offers great value. Setting the right expectations in terms of price is the key to quality: if you expect to pay a low price, you will be happy with Curren.
What is the difference between Curren dress and Curren chronograph?
It is the case size, dial complications and use case. Curren dress watches come in smaller case sizes (38mm to 42mm) and feature simpler dials with fewer complications to complement casual to formal dress. They are sized to fit beneath shirt cuffs, and suitable for a workplace environment. The chronograph models, with either functional or decorative subdials, are larger, ranging from 44mm to 48mm, and have more complex dials that allude to the look of sports and pilot watches. Chronograph models are proportioned for casual and smart-casual wear and will not fit well with dress shirts. The inner workings of both types of models are typically a standard quartz movement; the subdials on most Curren chronograph models are not functional, which is something to keep in mind before buying if a functional stopwatch feature is essential.
What's the accuracy of a Curren quartz movement?
The typical quartz movements used in Curren watches are guaranteed to be accurate to plus or minus 15 to 30 seconds per month under normal conditions, or half a second to one second per day. Typically, Curren watches are accurate within 10 to 15 seconds per month, which is suitable for any practical purpose. Quartz movements are affected by extreme temperature, so if watches are stored in very cold or very hot conditions, they may have somewhat less accuracy than watches stored in room temperature conditions. The watches do not use high-grade quartz oscillators, so are not as accurate as a thermocompensated quartz movement used in a timekeeping device, but for normal use at work, travel and parties, the watches are perfectly accurate for most users. Most users will only need to reset their Curren once a month or so from a trusted source.
Can I swim with Curren?
The majority of Curren watches are not swimproof. The 30m water resistant rating on many watches is a static water resistance rating, rather than a dynamic activity rating. A 30m rating means the watch is resistant to splashes, rain and accidental and brief submersion in water but not for prolonged periods. The effects of dynamic pressure created by swimming, showering in the watch and participating in water sports surpass the static rating of 30m. Watches in this price range also do not have seals that are regularly maintained and replaced as they are with dive watches, so the seals will weaken over time. If you are looking for a watch for water sports, then you need a watch with at least 100m water resistance and preferably an ISO 6425 dive watch. This type of watch is not offered by Curren.
What Curren watch should I buy as my first watch?
Generally speaking, a full steel business or dress watch with a case size between 40mm and 42mm will be the best option. The steel bracelet removes the risk of strap wear that plagues traditional leather/PU strap watches, the case diameter is large enough to be worn in formal and casual environments and the simple dial face design ensures that the watch does not get "ugly" as it ages. The CUR155 Full Steel Business Watch is a good example and provides a wearer with a dependable and durable timepiece. Those looking for a stylish casual rather than versatile everyday watch can opt for a sports model with a silicone strap, providing both durability and comfort but with reduced versatility. First-time owners shouldn't be tempted to buy a decorative chronograph model and expect it to function as a stopwatch; always make sure this is the case before buying!
How long will a Curren watch last?
When regularly worn a Curren watch purchased mid-way along the brand's range should be expected to work well for 3-5 years with basic maintenance. The quartz movement will need a new battery every two years (depending on the use of backlights on the dial and other complications). The case and crystal of stainless steel cases will develop surface scratches with wear and can be polished by a watchmaker at minimal cost. PU leather straps on basic models will require replacement after a period of 12-18 months of daily wear in normal conditions and less time in warmer and humid environments where sweat will cause degradation of the strap. Steel bracelets will not require replacement during the life of the watch with normal wear. Overall, the watches last a fair amount for the price and are comparable to other brands at similar prices.
Are Curren watches repairable?
Yes, Curren watches have standard quartz movements and readily available parts that can be repaired by any local watchmaker. The most frequent repair is battery replacement which can be done by any watch repairer or many jewelers in a matter of minutes for a small charge. Strap replacement is easy, Curren watches have standard lug sizes (18mm, 20mm or 22mm lug sizes, depending on model) so replacement straps can be found at any watch strap supplier. Scratches on the case can be buffed out by a watchmaker. If the crown is broken, this will need to be replaced, which again may require a special order from the manufacturer, or a spare parts supplier. A serious problem with the movement can be repaired by a qualified watchmaker, who can swap out the entire movement with a compatible quartz movement, which will cost roughly the same as a new entry-level Curren watch; this is something to consider when deciding whether to repair or replace a Curren watch.
What to Consider Before Purchasing
Curren watches are a sensible and fair option for consumers with a specific budget and realistic expectations as to what they are paying for. The best models, especially the full steel business and dress watches, provide quality and impact that consistently surpasses buyers' budgetary expectations. The female fashion collection, offering unique items such as the square, green-dialed CUR215, offers design diversity that is rare at this level.
The brand's shortcomings are just as evident: PU leather straps on lower-end models wear out over time, water resistance claims should be interpreted as splash-proof rather than waterproof (the latter requires the watch to be submerged), and decorative chronograph dials confuse buyers who interpret them to mean the watch has a stopwatch function.
Purchasing a Curren watch with these factors in mind is an easy choice. You are buying a nicely designed, functional quartz watch that will not only look attractive on your wrist and stand out favorably in most social and business settings, but that you can do so for a price that makes the watch a "no risk" proposition. It is a good deal, and it will be more than sufficient for some buyers in many circumstances.
