Maen Brooklyn 36 Triple Calendar Turns Back The Clock With Datejust Vintage Vibes

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Housing the entire quantième complet collection of functions with date, day of the month and month of the year indicators, the super slim Maen Brooklyn 36 Triple Calendar with Miyota 9122 movement packs a punch in the sub £1000 category.

At A Glance

On point with slimmer dimensions, ultra-thin looks and complications that’s nigh on impossible to squeeze into an 11.1mm case thickness, Maen’s Co-Founder, Sebastiaan Cortjaens has come up horological trumps with the Brooklyn collection.
Simplicity personified, the stainless steel five-link bracelet, highly visible dial, top notch finishing and vintage specs certainly conjures up timeless Rolex Datejust models of yesteryear.
Well priced and a throwback to 1930’s design, the Dauphine hands, pie-pan inspired dials and box domed sapphire crystal evokes a sense of warmth and is more than suitable as an everyday piece.
Reminiscent of vintage TAG Heuer Autavia watches from the 1960’s, the Maen Brooklyn 36 Triple Calendar is available in four dial declinations with excellent finishing, taking in a sunburst pie-pan face, sandblasted subdials and X1 Superluminova.

There’s retro…and there’s retro.

If done well, it can set you apart from the crowd. We ain’t talking garish avocado bathrooms and gaudy prawn cocktails dominating many British homes during the 1970s. Far from it.

We are of course talking watches. And for this fresh independent brand, time waits for no man.

Or should that be men?

Founded in 2017, Sebastiaan Cortjaens and Jules van Helvoort have carved out a reputation for attention to detail and passion for creating highly specialized timepieces.

Cortjaens is a watchmaker who is passionate about the art of traditional watchmaking. Their focus is on the marriage of mechanical complexity and aesthetic beauty, ensuring that each timepiece tells a unique story. Let’s just say, this is definitely a microbrand as such to watch out for.

LEARN MORE: From Nodus to Vortic, Here’s Our Best Microbrands For Serious Connoisseurs

Artisanal watchmaking is at the core of their philosophy with features that appeal to horological enthusiasts, such as complications and highly decorative finishes. Some of Maen’s creations are produced in extremely limited editions or even as one-off pieces like the Maen x IFL Manhattan Graffiti, which was only on sale for 24 hours.

The brand often emphasizes understated elegance, opting for designs that are sophisticated yet simple. His style may not always be immediately flashy, but it exudes a refined, quiet luxury that captures the true essence of watchmaking: passion, precision, and artistry.

Hang on a second: Manhattan 37 Seconde Seconde with the man of the hour…

By the way, did we mention they have done not one, but two hot collabs with renowned designer Romaric André. Who? Two words for you…

Seconde Seconde. Not too shabby indeed.

However, today, we turn to another timekeeping kid on the block that’s worthy of attention.

Eyes down for a second, as we’ll delve into what makes the brand tick, before launching, like an Omega Seamaster Ploprof 1200M into our review of the Maen Brooklyn 36 Triple Calendar.

Start the clock.

Dutch Courage

Now you don’t need to neck back a glass or two of Advocaat for this next bit.

Double Dutch

Maen watches have a distinct connection from the Netherlands, given that both founders, namely Sebastiaan Cortjaens and Jules van Helvoort were born and raised there.

Bloomin marvellous is what we say.

From the land of clogs, Appeltaart and Marco Van Basten, comes a brand with quality and detail at its inner core, delivering a finish beyond anyone’s wildest horological dreams…and at wallet-friendly prices.

Not quite on Michael Palin’s epic travels across the globe, but both gentlemen crossed paths while living in different countries with a deep, underlying passion for timepieces and collecting. Their mindset was firmly set on creating a brand.

And after Cortjaens asked for insight from his counterpart, Maen watches debuted in 2017, going from strength to strength. For nearly a decade, they have branched out like a fine bouquet of fresh tulips across half a dozen collections with an impressive customer base in nearly 100 territories.

What’s not to like?

In addition, their D2C model ensures they can maintain a far better standard of control across their watches, while at the same time, engage and interact with their customer base.

Derived from the Dutch translation of the word Moon (Maen), it is not only considered the ultimate passage of time but the term has a significant impact on their native culture.

Give us a second and we will explain…

Moonlighting

The moon in Holland (or the Netherlands) holds special cultural significance, shaped by the country's landscape, history, and unique weather patterns. Here’s a closer look at how the moon plays a role in Dutch life and culture:

1. Flat Landscapes And Moonlit Nights

The Netherlands is known for its flat landscape, with vast fields, canals, and windmills.

On clear nights, this flat terrain provides a stunning view of the moon. In rural areas, it often illuminates the landscape, creating a serene and magical atmosphere.

The calmness of the Dutch countryside at night is a recurring motif in Dutch art and literature, where the moon is seen as a source of peace and contemplation.

2. The Moon in Dutch Art

17th Century painting by Van der Neer, entitled Moonlight At A Dutch River. Source: Wikimedia

Many Dutch painters, especially from the Golden Age of Dutch painting (17th century), captured scenes of moonlit nights.

Artists like Aert van der Neer, Rafael Govertsz Camphuysen, and Hendrick Goudt painted landscapes where the moon’s glow softly reflects off water or highlights the clouds.

The moon served as a tool for creating contrast between light and shadow, emphasizing the serene yet sometimes mysterious atmosphere of the night.

Unlike Frank Sinatra’s famous song, this ain’t no “Strangers In The Night” exchanging glances, rather a case of dramatic atmospheric effects using moonlight and Mother Nature at its finest. Some of Van der Neer’s most renowned art include;

River Landscape In Moonlight
The Farrier
Moonlit Landscape With View Of The New Amstel River and Castle Kostverloren

These paintings often evoke feelings of tranquility, and in some cases, an eerie stillness, with a subtle ability to nuance both light and shadow.

3. Dutch Folklore And Traditions

In Dutch folklore, the moon has been associated with various myths and legends.

The full moon, in particular, was sometimes linked to harvest cycles, and some believed that a bright, full moon could influence crop growth or predict weather patterns.

In rural parts of the Netherlands, people might have observed the moon’s phases to mark the time for planting and harvesting.

4. Moon And Maritime Culture

The Netherlands has a strong maritime tradition, and the moon plays an important role in navigation.

Sailors in the past would use the moon and stars to navigate the seas, which were crucial to Dutch trade and exploration.

The reflective light would help sailors see landmarks or even spot dangerous waters, especially at night when the sky was clear.

5. Modern Dutch Views Of The Moon

Today, the moon continues to have cultural significance in the Netherlands.

The moon features in the country’s art, poetry, and even in modern celebrations like festivals. The “Night of the Full Moon” is sometimes celebrated by Dutch astronomers and enthusiasts who gather for stargazing events.

Did You Know…

The Netherlands has lunar sample displays in the National Museum of the History of Science and Medicine in Leiden. The museum contains a piece of petrified wood that was misidentified as moon rock.

I think it’s about time we got all starry eyed and get into our review…don’t you?

Personality Of The Maen Brooklyn 36 Triple Calendar

“What I personally like most is how we managed to integrate the triple calendar function in a relatively small case. In my opinion the watch feels more complex because of this. If we had put this in a bigger case, I think it would not have the same effect.”

Sebastiaan Cortjaens, Co-Founder of Maen watches talking exclusively to Chrono Hunter

First things first. Let’s get the horological elephant in the room out the way. This is not a Rolex Datejust. But it does have certain leanings which we will cover, all in good time.

Bucks Fizz: Champagne popping dial

Yet this does not take away from what is a well executed timepiece, emboldened with a little Dutch spirit.

As stylish as George Clooney sipping a Nespresso in the corner of a Viennese cafe and a touch of elegance, the details have been considered, from every facet and vintage angle.

LEARN MORE: 19 Best Vintage Watches To Buy Right Now - IWC Portugieser, Tudor Submariner

Like that big bag of Malteasers at the cinema, some things are made for sharing. And this watch has it in spades.

It ticks most of the timekeeping boxes for horophiles and nerds alike, with its svelte 36mm x 11.1mm case dimensions.

To give you an idea, this is 1mm less than a Rolex Yacht-Master in Oystersteel reference 268622 and just 0.7mm thicker than a Longines Flagship Heritage (L4.795.4.78.2)

Paint It Black…

Like the classic Rolex Oyster Perpetual watches of yesteryear, known for their timeless appeal and simplicity they often come in smaller sizes, ranging from 34mm to 36mm, which was considered quite compact back in the day, when compared to today’s larger sizes.

The design has remained relatively consistent over the years, with many vintage models featuring a clean, minimalist dial with simple hour markers and elegant hands. And it’s precisely akin to this particular timepiece.

Green dial declination

Look, slimmer watches are as de rigueur as one of Donald Trump’s latest outbursts. Yes, its version 2.0 with more orange than the “Orange Army”. But it can easily fit under a cuff, when you are heading for that last minute tram.

And we get it.

The Maen Brooklyn 36 Triple Calendar is well proportioned and although it may be a tad on the small side for some, we are splitting horological hairs. Really we are. But it’s the complete calendar function that’s the star of this show..

Polished and brushed surfaces dominate but this complication is deemed much more advanced than a basic date-only function. No need for the no date vs date Submariner debate here.

FIND OUT MORE: Should You Still Buy A Rolex Submariner In 2025?

This is because it displays a fuller picture of the calendar without requiring frequent manual adjustments.

The most sophisticated version of this is the perpetual calendar, which not only adjusts for month lengths and leap years but automatically accounts for any future calendar changes, such as the number of days in February in a leap year.

“The dial itself is also very nice because of the recessed subdials and chapter ring (pie-pan style)...as a whole, it is a very solid offering, and you can feel the quality when handling.”

Exclusive soundbite from Sebastiaan Cortjaens, Co-Founder of Maen watches talking with Chrono Hunter

But the Maen Brooklyn 36 Triple Calendar seamlessly adjusts to the first day of the next month. This is adeptly done thanks to the subtle pusher located at 2 o’clock while the push-pull crown is responsible for the following;

Date
Day of the week
Time

On to the beautiful sunburst infused dial, with a nod to Pie-Pan visuals that can be seen in many Omega watches such as a 1950s Constellation.

Think recessed chapter ring, adding tremendous depth with sunken sandblasted subdials, emanating a sophisticated mottled print based at 3 o’clock and 9 o’clock.

The contrast has been done to aplomb with almost a 3D effect of the subdials popping up like a smoothly opened bottle of champagne. Just hold the smoked salmon for now.

But if you want more vintage than an Aston Martin DB5, how about the box domed sapphire crystal that TAG Heuer have come up trumps with in several models such as the Carrera Chronograph?

Again, we doth our hat to Maen on this element as it enhances the warmth factor while turning the vintage scale up to overdrive.

Oh, it truly is “A Golden Age”, especially for indies who are pushing their own timekeeping boundaries.

We like the almost sunken rail track, running around the periphery of the dial, giving it a nice depth.

The date aperture is located at 6 while there’s a double deployant clasp housed on the stainless steel 5-link bracelet with brand logo affixed. This is secure and won’t be too weighty for many wearers.

The company hallmark is also seen on the push/pull crown. Sure, there’s nothing engraved or etched on the caseback, which is a slight letdown.

But don’t let this detract from something that is more than capable of acting as your next best everyday watch, tackling the boardroom and a light splash of rain, given its 50 metres of water resistance.

Clean, well executed and most importantly affordable to many looking to fall into the horological rabbit hole, the layered dial, complete calendar complication and Jubilee style bracelet will make even the most discerning of time lords grin like a Cheshire cat.

It’s a pawesome piece, no doubt about it…

Official Specs - Maen Brooklyn 36 Triple Calendar

Reference	M5.1.1 (Dark Grey accent) M5.1.2 (Cream White accent) M5.1.5 (Dark Green accent) M5.1.6 (Salmon accent)
Case Diameter	36mm
Case Thickness	11.1mm (12.6mm total with the glass)
Dial Colours	Dark Grey, Cream White, Salmon, Green
Case Material	316L Stainless Steel
Crystal Type	Box Domed
Caseback	Screw Down
Lume	C1 X1 Superluminova
Functions	Time (hours, minutes, central seconds), Triple calendar indicator with day, date, and month elements
Markers	Polished, Applied
Water Resistance	5 Bars / 50 Meters / 5 ATM / 165 Feet
Bezel Type	Fixed
Bracelet Style	5-Link
Bracelet Width	20mm tapered to 16mm
Clasp	Butterfly affixed with Maen logo
Lug to Lug	46mm
Lug Width	20mm
Limited Edition	No

Miyota 9122 Movement

Based on the Miyota 9000 series, it is well-regarded for its accuracy, solid functionality, and value, often found in mid-range watches.

In short, the Miyota Caliber 9122 is an excellent example of Miyota’s craftsmanship in producing reliable and practical automatic movements.

With its quantième complet feature, 24-hour hand, reasonable power reserve, and solid accuracy, it offers a fantastic solution for brands aiming for dependable timekeeping in a mid-range price bracket.

For consumers, watches powered by the Miyota 9122 deliver a smooth, functional experience at an accessible price point, making it a popular choice in the world of mechanical novelties. They can be found in a number of timepieces such as;

Lobinni Interlaken
Baltany Pilot
MEIA LUA CALLISTO Blue Moon
Baltany S6047

Official Movement Specs

Type Of Movement	Automatic
Parashock	Yes
Power Reserve	Approximately 40 hours
Number of Jewels	26
Functions	Day, Month, Date, Hours, Minutes, Sweep Second
Vph	28,800 (4HZ)
Diameter	30.2mm
Height	5.52mm
Rotor Style	Ball Bearing
Accuracy	ｰ10～＋30 sec/day

Where Can You Buy A Maen Brooklyn 36 Triple Calendar?

If you want to pick up one of these beauties, why not head to their site here to snaffle one up.

They are available in four different declinations, namely;

Dark grey with cream subdials
Cream white with black subdials
Dark green with black subdials
Salmon with cream white subdials

Complete with a two year warranty, you can purchase a Maen Brooklyn 36 Triple Calendar for 639.20 Euros. That’s around £532 of your finest British pounds.

Production Alert

Note the above watches are in production at the time of writing and will be available for pre-order. Delivery will not take place until the Summer, around the end of July.

What’s Our View?

The MAEN Brooklyn 36 Triple Calendar is a highly functional yet visually striking timepiece that encapsulates a classic approach to watchmaking. Plus, it has some sexy visual architecture to boot.

Like the equivalent of pulling that slinky black dress on, there’s something rather sensual about how they manage to implement a quantième complet into such a minimalistic case thickness.

The combination of its triple calendar complication, elegant design, and reliable automatic movement makes it a solid choice for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Especially those who are looking to buy a watch at entry-level.

Whether looking for something with practical daily use features or one with refined, vintage-inspired aesthetics, this for many, offers a perfect balance of both.

And at an attractive price point.

Besides, for the sum of two Moonswatch models, you can acquire this beauty at the drop of a horological hat. Well we say that, but you’ll have to wait until at least July 2025.

After all, beauty is only skin deep…or should that be thin deep?

Conclusion

While the Maen Brooklyn 36 Triple Calendar will be seen by some as a dress watch, its versatility makes it suitable for a variety of special occasions.

But what do we know??

Chrono Hunter has only transacted more than $50 million in timepiece value across all the top luxury Swiss watch brands! The fact is you’d be hard pressed to find a more authentic and detailed review of this nature anywhere.

Sharp edges and refined with a nice sunburst pie-pan inspired dial, this will take pride of place in anyone’s collection. Be it a suit for a formal office setting to impress the big boss, or paired with casual attire, the design and functionality of this timepiece make it appropriate for a host of different styles.

While not typically intended for diving, it often features a reasonable level of water resistance (around 50 meters), making it suitable for everyday wear and light activities like washing hands or light rain exposure. And you are more than likely to make a splash with this on your wrist.

As Oasis recounted to millions of starry eyed fans in July 1997…Do You Know What I Maen?

Looking to buy a triple calendar watch with vigour and added sophistication? Want to buy a Blancpain Quantième Complet or buy a Zenith Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar at the best possible price? Turn to Chrono Hunter for all your buying and selling needs.

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