Watch that appears like £40,000 Patek and prices 1% of the value is ‘absolute stunner’
Independent watch brand Detrash’s McQ: Salmon watch bears a resemblance to a more luxury design
Detrash’s watches are a hit with fans, who say they can be ‘worn with casual or smart clothing’
A growing number of independent watch brands are capturing attention for taking a fresh approach to classic design, and one particular model has sparked debate for its distinctive appearance. Now, the McQ: Salmon watch is available for £445 on Detrash’s website.
With its slender case, gently hued dial and refined detailing, it bears a striking resemblance to the type of dress watches typically linked with established Swiss marques like Patek, such as the £40,000 Calatrava 6196P-001 timepiece. The McQ actually takes its name from Steve McQueen, as the design’s inspiration came from Steve’s own Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox that he sported in The Thomas Crown Affair (1968), according to the website.
From that foundation, they explained they incorporated some Gerald Genta-inspired twisted lugs from the Universal Geneve Polerouter, a ‘few design cues from the Patek Philippe Calatrava’, some colour and, crucially, some details crafted from recycled materials. The timepiece boasts a crisp, traditional design that feels recognisable without being ostentatious.
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Its slender profile (8mm), well-proportioned dimensions and uncluttered dial (38mm diameter) give it a subtly enduring appearance that suits daily wear just as well as it complements formal attire. Instead of depending on flashy features or prominent logos, the emphasis lies on clean lines and readability, ensuring effortless wearability.
The construction materials showcase a pragmatic, contemporary methodology in watchmaking. Take The McQ: Salmon’s casing, which is forged from 80% recycled surgical-grade steel according to the manufacturer, maintaining a featherweight sensation on your arm whilst retaining robustness and longevity, reports the Mirror.
It comes equipped with a BeerSkin strap—an eco-friendly leather alternative created from brewery waste products—which delivers a supple, well-worn texture right from day one and rests naturally without any rigidity. Manufacturing remains intentionally limited, with every timepiece bearing individual numbering to prevent any impression of factory-line production.
Overall, it presents an uncomplicated interpretation of timeless watch design, merging understated aesthetics, thoughtful material selection and a more mindful manufacturing philosophy. As an alternative, customers might consider the exclusive Citizen Sport Eco-Drive Chronograph Black Dial and Stainless Steel Watch priced at £349 from H Samuel.
This timepiece reportedly boasts a ‘sporty look and feel’, featuring a stainless steel housing and bracelet alongside a black face with glowing hands and indices. It also incorporates discrete red highlights and includes a one-second chronograph capable of timing up to 60 minutes, 12/24 hour display and date function, plus water resistance down to 100 metres.
The Detrash McQ: Salmon watch has garnered rave reviews, with one satisfied customer declaring: “Well and truly over the elitism of the luxury brands and have just sold two Swiss watches and replaced them with a handful of less expensive models. The Detrash McQ is far and away the standout piece of my new collection.
“An absolute stunner to look at and a build quality that makes a mockery of the supposedly high end brands and all this with my social conscience intact, too. What’s not to love?”
Another delighted buyer penned: “A very attractive watch that can be worn with casual or smart clothing. Very comfortable strap with an accurate movement. A really good concept!”
A third customer shared: “I got number 60 for my 60th birthday. It’s a really classy dress watch that is nicely made and I love the environmental aspect.”
Whilst there were no negative critiques on Detrash itself, on Trustpilot one reviewer noted: “My only niggle was the spamming asking for reviews – when I’d emailed to say I couldn’t give a review until the gift had been opened!”
Another enthusiastic owner revealed: “I now have three Detrash watches, a Cali – melting Ice Cap Blue, an Au,M.G and I’ve just got myself an McQ: Salmon. Believe me when I tell you that these watches are the real deal. I am so pleased with my purchases. Thank you Detrash!”
