Proxima PX1742 Review – The Dragon’s Eye
The Proxima PX1742 is not positioned as a subtle watch, nor does it attempt to blend quietly into the background. At first glance, it presents itself as a modern, premium-leaning automatic with specifications that immediately demand attention. A sapphire sandwich construction, a high-beat Miyota 9015 movement, and a design language that draws clear visual parallels to established Swiss pieces all signal intent.
Yet the PX1742 is more than a checklist exercise. Its appeal lies in how those components are brought together, particularly through its proportions and its highly distinctive dial execution. This is a watch that invites comparison, not only because of its finishing and architecture, but because its visual cues are confident enough to withstand scrutiny.
On the wrist, the PX1742 feels deliberate and carefully composed. Nothing appears accidental. From the restrained case dimensions to the assertive dial texture, it walks a fine line between elegance and spectacle. It is precisely this balance that makes the PX1742 an intriguing proposition within the modern microbrand landscape. For a wider view of how this watch compares within the brand, you may want to revisit our other Proxima reviews.
Design & Case
The PX1742 sits squarely in everyday-wearable territory. The case measures 39 mm in diameter, 11.2 mm in thickness, and 44.5 mm lug-to-lug, creating a compact and wrist-friendly footprint. A 20 mm lug width gives the watch visual stability while maintaining refined proportions.
The fixed bezel is brushed across the top, flat and controlled, but framed with care. A slim polished bevel transitions between the vertical bezel wall and the horizontal surface, catching light subtly without calling attention to itself. This restrained approach continues into the midcase, which is brushed horizontally across a narrow flank that gently curves from lug to lug. The case avoids slab-sided flatness, instead introducing a soft arch that gives it tension and visual breathing room.
Above the midcase, a uniform polished bevel separates the flank from the angled lug hoods. Below, a wide polished bevel leads the eye toward the exposed lip of the screw-down caseback, which features an exhibition window. On the right flank, pinched crown guards cradle a tall signed screw-down crown measuring 4.8 mm in diameter. While modest in diameter, its height and grip make operation easy without disrupting the overall balance of the case.
Movement & Crown
At the heart of the PX1742 is the Miyota 9015, a high-beat Japanese automatic movement widely respected in the microbrand space. It operates at 28,800 vibrations per hour, providing a smooth seconds-hand sweep. The movement features 24 jewels, a stated 42-hour power reserve, and an accuracy rating of −10 to +30 seconds per day.
Crown interaction is deliberate and mechanically reassuring. Unscrewing the signed crown reveals a zero position for manual winding. The winding feel is slightly granular—less silky than an NH35—but precise and positive, with firm click torque and consistent resistance. Around 30 to 40 turns are sufficient to fully wind the movement from empty.
Pulling the crown once engages the quick-set date function. A second pull brings the watch into time-setting mode, where the seconds hand hacks immediately. Hand feel here is solid, with no wobble or play, allowing for precise time setting. Once finished, the crown threads catch cleanly and screw down with minimal backspin, completing the interaction with a strong sense of mechanical integrity.
Bezel
The PX1742 uses a fixed bezel that prioritises visual refinement over functionality. Its brushed top surface and polished transitions work in harmony with the case architecture, framing the crystal without overwhelming the dial. The bezel’s simplicity allows the dial to remain the clear focal point, reinforcing the watch’s balanced design language.
Strap
Rather than a bracelet, the PX1742 is paired with a bold textured orange leather strap. Fully perforated through to the underside, it is stitched with matching orange thread along both edges, amplifying the warm tones of the dial. The strap includes two floating keepers and is secured by a polished stainless steel tang buckle with a brushed bevel accent.
The buckle is unsigned, but functional and secure. While the strap does not state “genuine leather,” it feels soft, pliable, and comfortable on the wrist. Quick-release spring bars make strap changes easy, allowing the watch to be dressed up or down depending on preference.
Crystal & Dial
The PX1742 features a flat slab of synthetic sapphire crystal sitting flush within the fixed bezel. A beveled edge softens the transition from bezel to crystal, while anti-reflective coating enhances clarity and reduces glare. This treatment clears the stage for what lies beneath: one of the most visually striking dials seen this year.
Proxima refers to this as an “oil-pressed” dial. Rather than sunburst or gradient finishing, pigment is compressed under pressure, creating radiating slivers and micro-bursts of colour. The effect originates from a recessed, elliptical iris-like centre, producing a dramatic “dragon’s eye” or molten pupil appearance. A black base layer underpins a flame-orange overlay, with hints of the darker undercoat visible at certain angles. Seen in isolation it stands well, but comparisons help sharpen the picture.
A white printed minute track overlays both colour zones, deepening contrast. Applied baton markers, filled with BGW9 lume, surround the dial. At 3 o’clock, a beveled chrome date window frames a black-on-white date wheel. The handset consists of vertically split double batons, paired with a seconds hand featuring a lumed arrow tip. In low light, the lume is rich and evenly applied across hands and indices, maintaining legibility despite the dial’s complexity.
Summary
The Proxima PX1742 is a watch that embraces boldness without sacrificing structure. Its wearable dimensions, layered case architecture, and high-beat Miyota 9015 movement establish solid mechanical and ergonomic foundations. What truly sets it apart, however, is its dial—hypnotic, textured, and unapologetically expressive.
Whether interpreted as a dragon’s eye, molten iris, or something altogether different, the dial ensures the PX1742 is never mistaken for an ordinary piece. Combined with sapphire sandwich construction and confident finishing, it stands as a compelling option for collectors seeking something visually distinctive without abandoning everyday usability. It’s worth placing this model within the wider landscape of similar releases.
Proxima PX1742 Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | Proxima PX1742 |
| Type | Automatic everyday watch |
| Movement | Miyota 9015 automatic |
| Jewels | 24 |
| Beat Rate | 28,800 vph |
| Power Reserve | 42 hours |
| Accuracy | −10 to +30 s/day |
| Functions | Hours, minutes, seconds, date |
| Case Diameter | 39 mm |
| Thickness | 11.2 mm |
| Lug-to-Lug | 44.5 mm |
| Lug Width | 20 mm |
| Caseback | Screw-down with exhibition window |
| Case Material | Stainless steel |
| Crown | Screw-down, signed, 4.8 mm |
| Bezel | Fixed, brushed top with polished bevel |
| Crystal | Synthetic sapphire with AR coating |
| Dial | Black base with flame-orange oil-pressed texture |
| Indices | Applied batons with BGW9 lume |
| Hands | Double baton hands, lumed |
| Seconds Hand | Lumed arrow tip |
| Date | At 3 o’clock, black on white |
| Strap | Perforated orange leather, quick-release |
| Buckle | Stainless steel tang buckle |
| Water Resistance | Not specified in review |
