Pagani Design PD1731 Review – Premium Detailing at an Unexpectedly LOW Price

When value is discussed in the context of affordable watches, it is often framed loosely. The Pagani Design PD1731 approaches the subject more directly, offering a feature set that would normally be associated with higher price brackets. Positioned under the $50 mark before tax, it combines a stainless steel case and bracelet, a domed synthetic sapphire crystal, and a textured dial with details that feel deliberate rather than cost-driven.

The PD1731 is not positioned as a tool watch, nor does it attempt to mimic rugged utility. Instead, it presents itself as a compact, elegant everyday piece with careful attention paid to proportions and finishing. What becomes immediately apparent is that this watch prioritises execution. From the way the bracelet integrates with the case to the visual depth created by the domed crystal, the PD1731 consistently signals thoughtful design choices. It is a watch that quietly demonstrates how far entry-level pricing has progressed, particularly when expectations are grounded in realism rather than hype. This watch competes directly with others in the under $50 bracket, each offering its own strengths.

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Design & Case

The PD1731’s dimensions form the foundation of its wearability. The case measures exactly 38 mm in diameter and 11.8 mm thick, with approximately 2 mm of that height attributed to the domed boxed synthetic sapphire crystal. Lug-to-lug length is a compact 44.6 mm, aided by inverted end links that allow the bracelet to drop sharply away from the case. On the wrist, this translates into a balanced, overhang-free fit, even on smaller wrists. Lug width measures 20 mm and tapers neatly to 16 mm at the clasp, reinforcing the watch’s refined proportions.

In profile, the case reveals a layered, architectural design rather than a single continuous flank. The midcase is rounded and polished, transitioning sharply into hook-like downturned lugs that drape cleanly along the wrist. Above this sits a thin fixed bezel with a radially brushed surface, positioned directly beneath the lip of the domed crystal.

The vertical bezel wall is polished, creating subtle contrast against the brushed lug hoods and matching the finish of the bracelet end links. A screw-down caseback peeks from the base of the flank, completing a visually distinct three-tier profile. Seen in isolation it stands well, but comparisons help sharpen the picture.

Movement & Crown

The PD1731 is powered by the Seiko VH31, a hybrid quartz movement that operates at four ticks per second, producing a sweep-like motion that closely resembles a mechanical seconds hand. While not matching the six beats per second of an NH35, the motion is notably smooth for a quartz calibre and contributes significantly to the watch’s refined presentation.

Crown interaction is equally well considered. Measuring 5.5 mm in diameter, the signed crown is tall, sharply notched, and easy to grip. The screw-down action is smooth and precise, with no lateral play or wobble during operation. Once unscrewed, the first position presents a ghost click, while pulling the crown out to the second position allows time adjustment. Here, indexing is crisp and controlled, with no slack in the system and no visible seconds-hand drift when pushing the crown back in. Overall, crown feel and movement interaction reinforce the sense of quality execution throughout the watch.

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Bezel

The bezel is fixed and understated, serving as a visual transition between the case and the crystal rather than a functional timing component. Its radially brushed top surface contrasts cleanly with the polished vertical bezel wall, subtly framing the dial without drawing attention away from it. The simplicity of the bezel allows the domed crystal and dial textures to remain the focal points of the watch’s design.

Bracelet

The bracelet follows a familiar three-link layout, fully brushed across the top and underside, with polished outer flanks that mirror the polished sides of the case. At this price point, the use of screw pins rather than push pins is a notable inclusion, offering easier sizing and a more premium feel during adjustment.

Tolerances are acceptable rather than luxurious, but link articulation is smooth and fluid, avoiding stiffness or awkward angles on the wrist. The clasp is a signed, double-pusher deployment with three micro-adjustment positions, providing a reasonable fit range. Inside, the folding wing is fully milled rather than stamped—another unexpected detail at this level. Taken together, the bracelet delivers two features rarely seen under $50: screw pins and a milled folding wing, reinforcing the PD1731’s strong value proposition.

Crystal & Dial

The boxed synthetic sapphire crystal sits prominently above the dial, slightly domed and treated with anti-reflective coating. When viewed at an angle, it displays a subtle greenish-purple sheen, while clarity remains excellent head-on. Mild edge distortion is present, adding a touch of vintage character without compromising legibility.

Beneath the crystal lies a matte emerald green dial with a subtly coarse texture. It avoids gloss and sunburst effects, instead offering a restrained surface that reacts consistently across lighting conditions. A white printed minute track defines the periphery, while applied chrome baton markers provide clear hour indication, with double batons at 3, 6, 9, and 12 for orientation.

The handset consists of chrome dauphine-style hands filled with slim lume strips, paired with a polished stick seconds hand that sweeps smoothly thanks to the VH31 movement. Branding is minimal, with an applied Pagani Design logo below 12 and a simple “100 m” print above 6, resulting in a symmetrical, uncluttered dial layout. Lume performance is modest but adequate for low-light checks.

Summary

The Pagani Design PD1731 is a clear demonstration of how far affordable watchmaking has progressed. Its compact dimensions, layered case design, domed synthetic sapphire crystal, and thoughtfully executed bracelet collectively deliver a level of refinement rarely associated with its $50 before tax price.

While it does not aim to compete with higher-end pieces in terms of finishing tolerances or lume performance, it succeeds by focusing on core fundamentals and executing them well. For those seeking an elegant, everyday watch with premium-feeling components at an accessible price, the PD1731 represents a compelling and well-balanced option. For a wider view of how this watch compares within the brand, you may want to revisit our other Pagani Design reviews.

Pagani Design PD1731 Specifications

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