Maen Manhattan 37 Ultra-Thin Stone Dial Levels Up With Black Onyx, Golden Swan and Snowflake Obsidian

Table of contents:

Scandinavian Design, Swiss Sophistication, Dutch Courage: With a 24% reduction in case thickness and a trio of declinations in Black Onyx, Golden Swan and Snowflake Obsidian, it's time to deep dive into our review of the Maen Manhattan 37 Ultra-Thin Stone Dial

Summary

Renowned for the Hudson, Skymaster and Brooklyn, the brand is back with their next ultra-slim series that has been completely redefined.
Founded by Sebastiaan Cortjaens and Jules van Helvoort, their models are reminiscent of vintage Patek Philippe Nautilus timepieces, with super slim dimensions and unmistakable octagonal bezel.
With presence in 80-plus countries, producing more than six different collections, the case has been streamlined from 9.3mm to 7.1mm and houses La Joux-Perret D101.
Made from 316L stainless steel, there is a three-link integrated bracelet, 100 metres of water resistance alongside polished and satin-brushed finishes, resulting in an elegant, multifaceted and ergonomic wearing experience.
Individuality is brought to the table, thanks to the introduction of three stone dials, oozing textural depth and more personality than Patrick Ball wearing an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar at the Emmys 2026.

It may be approaching the end of the year, and still, despite severe droughts in Southern England, there are certainly no shortages of luxury watch releases. Which brings us to a part Swedish, part Dutch brand that has set the independent scene ablaze for nearly a decade.

With a design philosophy focused around minimalist aesthetics, clean lines, and practical functionality, offering timepieces suitable for everyday and special occasions, are you thirsty to learn more?

It’s about time we got into our review of the Maen Manhattan 37 Ultra-Thin Stone Dial collection.

Maen Manhattan - Everything You Need To Know

“We bring the clean lines of Scandinavian design alongside the confident geometry of integrated-bracelet sports watches. This collection is known for refined aesthetics, vintage-inspired details, carefully considered proportions, combined with quality mechanical movements and contemporary versatility”

Jules Van Helvoort, Co-Founder of Maen talking exclusively to Chrono Hunter

Established in 2017 by Sebastiaan Cortjaens and Jules van Helvoort, these long-time enthusiasts and collectors crossed paths while abroad. And the rest as they say is history

The collection draws inspiration from the architectural character of New York, translating the Manhattan skyline into a distinctive wristwatch defined by angular forms and well thought out dimensions.

Its signature feature is the integrated bracelet, which flows seamlessly to create a cohesive, architectural silhouette.

Sharp edges, contrasting brushed and polished surfaces, and a faceted case structure give the Manhattan considerable wrist presence without relying on excessive size or visual complexity.

The result is a design that feels simultaneously retro and contemporary, recalling the golden age of luxury sports watches while maintaining its own identity.

The dial provides an equally compelling counterpoint to the case with an interplay of textured surfaces, applied indices and carefully balanced details that introduce depth without compromising legibility.

40mm version

Automatic models add mechanical substance to the collection, appealing to enthusiasts who appreciate the relationship between design and traditional horology. So what distinguishes the MAEN Manhattan?

It is its ability to capture the character of a much more expensive design category while retaining an independent-brand sensibility with a direct to consumer approach.

It is neither purely a dress watch nor simply a sports watch, but a versatile everyday companion.

Ultimately, the Manhattan demonstrates how thoughtful design, strong proportions and distinctive detailing can create a memorable timepiece without unnecessary extravagance.

Personality Of The Maen Manhattan 37 Ultra-Thin Stone Dial Collection

Crisp, clean and unfussy, this lineup has certainly upped their game.

Besides showcasing a near 25% reduction in case size, there are polished chamfers, 316L stainless steel integrated bracelet and new pencil style handset, making it sophisticated and as sharp as (ahem) a pencil!

This latest model follows on from the success of the Manhattan 37 Ultra-Thin that I reviewed in detail previously.

Measuring 37mm x 7.1mm (down from 9.3mm) it is the same diameter as one of the ultimate grail watches for many, the Vacheron Constantin Historiques 222 (Ref. 4200H/222A-B934), and the same thickness as a Breguet Classique Tourbillon Extra-Plat 5377 (Ref. 5377BR/12/9WU)

Mind you, the latter is in excess of £176,000. This beauty is less than two grand, so for the same dimension, it’s a big thumbs up to ensure that level of sveltness. The highlight though is apparent with the unique stone dials taking centre stage.

Black Onyx

Nearly as deep as the Musou Black used by Swiss brand Blackout Watches, there is an intense mirror-like black accent that is both minimal and the epitome of quiet luxury.

This striking gemstone is admired for its deep black colour, smooth texture, and timelessness. Historically, it has been used in carvings, ornaments, and decorative objects.

Black onyx is often associated with strength, protection, confidence, and emotional balance

The pencil style hands elevate the overall look and has plenty of visual interest with its discreet appearance.

Golden Swan

A sense of charm and richness can be seen in this declination. Combined with warm golden hues, there is a vibrant and colourful palette that gives off a sense of vibrancy.

With its array of random patterns and swirls, it is similar to the limited edition Pequignet Attitude Tiger’s Eye, utilising this stone, admired for its golden-brown shades, natural striped patterns, and captivating silky shine.

Definitely worth buying for those who want to take a walk on the wild side.

Snowflake Obsidian

As rare as getting on the Rolex Daytona waitlist, this is arguably the most stand out of the series. Snowflake obsidian is a natural volcanic glass formed when lava cools rapidly.

In terms of composition, the white patterns are made of cristobalite, a form of silica.

Incorporating natural pale markings that contrast nicely against its dark volcanic base, every piece has distinctive patterns, making every stone one of a kind akin to a Zenith Defy Extreme Glacier, made with chalcedony.

Expressive and far more graphic in form compared to the other two models above, the speckles and interplay of light are eye-catching, bold and a rather new break from their original persona.

Points to note are that the brand’s signature applied hour markers and small seconds have been replaced with pencil hands to really allow the stone dials to shine.

There is everything you would normally expect with this particular series, including a 316L stainless steel integrated bracelet, but with this time, double-pusher butterfly clasp and bonus perlage.

Weighing 121 grams with a 47.4mm lug to lug (a sweet spot for many), as well as an ultra slim movement, they have without doubt etched their own mark on a series that will no doubt grow in popularity, after this release.

Official Specs - Maen Manhattan 37 Ultra Thin Stone Dial

Did You Know?

Although the brand was founded by two Dutchmen, MAEN is based in Stockholm, Sweden

La Joux-Perret D101 Movement

Inside the Maen Manhattan 37 Stone Dial collection beats La Joux-Perret D101.

This mechanical movement embodies the enduring appeal of traditional Swiss watchmaking.

Designed for slim, elegant timepieces, it combines a compact profile with the essential qualities that matter to enthusiasts: mechanical simplicity, dependable performance and thoughtful engineering.

With a diameter of 23.3 mm and a thickness of just 2.5 mm, it is particularly suited to watches where restrained proportions, understated elegance and special occasions take precedence.

Its hand-wound architecture reinforces the connection between wearer and mechanism, transforming the daily ritual of winding into an integral part of the ownership experience.

Operating at 21,600 vibrations per hour, the calibre offers a 50-hour power reserve, providing practical autonomy without compromising its slim construction.

Composed of 18 jewels, it reflects a careful approach to mechanical design, prioritising the essentials of a traditional time-only movement.

Inspired by the architecture of the ETA-Peseux 7001, we like its seamlessness, creating an intimate relationship between wearer and wrist.

The La Joux-Perret D101 demonstrates the continued relevance of specialist movement manufacturers in contemporary horology.

There is an open sapphire caseback, blued screws and precise Cotes de Geneve finishing, blending accuracy and visual architecture into a singular presentation.

With a 50 hour power reserve, it is a great choice as one of the top movement makers, celebrating the fundamentals of mechanical timekeeping, where proportion, precision and craftsmanship go hand in hand.

Other watches home to La Joux-Perret D101 include;

Mermont La Parfaite
Maen Grand Tonneau Ultra-Thin in conjunction with Nico Leonard

Official Movement Specs

Where Can You Buy A Maen Manhattan 37 Ultra-Thin Stone Dial?

Part of the permanent collection, you can pick one up at the time of writing for the following prices;

Golden Swan - £1545 GBP / 1,826 EUR (Approximate value)
Black Onyx - £1545 GBP / 1,826 EUR (Approximate value)
Snowflake Obsidian - £1545 GBP / 1,826 EUR (Approximate value)

**Note, there are only 100 pieces per variant produced initially, then moving to pre-order**

Shipping Details

Based on a pre order model, the table below outlines all the essential information;

For further information, please visit their official website. For any more details or queries about how to land one, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Prices correct November 2026

What’s Our View?

MAEN have taken the independent scene by storm. Simplicity in truest form, the Black Onyx is a real standout with intense, deep tones that draws you in.

Sculpted more than Michaelangelo’s David, with an impressive sandwich sapphire architecture, its slender proportions are a genuine attention grabber.

Add in a La Joux-Perret D101 movement, 100 metres of water resistance with an integrated stainless steel bracelet, and you have an attractive value proposition for many entry-level enthusiasts.

Don’t forget those 1970’s vintage vibes either, like Dr. Martens, or for that matter a retro TAG Heuer Carrera, never goes out of fashion.

Time and time again, the brand seems to deliver on both point and price proposition, with attainable models that are well executed, slimmed down and extremely versatile, for the fussiest of wearers.

No stone has been left unturned in terms of detail and purity.

Conclusion

They may be a tad late to the stone dial craze that’s trending as much as one of Donald Trump’s memes on Truth Social.

However, this does not detract from the overall conception.

Instantly recognisable thanks to their octagonal bezel and elongated Côtes de Genève characteristics, reflected on non-stone dial models within the same lineup, they are a force to be reckoned with in the best microbrands category.

You might say they have carved a niche for themselves among collectors and enthusiasts. Already cementing a reputation on the scene that’s growing in stature, this eventual transition to stone dial watches clearly demonstrates they Maen business.

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Images: Unless otherwise specified

Maen

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