I've had my 42mm Hwan for around 5 months now and I've definitely enjoyed it a lot. The main attraction is obviously the kinetic art formed by the rotating discs and it's pretty mesmerizing. I often stare at the watch for much longer than I need to when checking the time just to see the top disc rotate a bit further and form all sorts of cool patterns.
The render in the listing is a bit idealized though. It shows the dial behind the rotating disc to be completely white (which is possible using a flash like in my video), but really would look more like my photo most of the time, with shadows cast by the discs onto the dial. Not dealbreaking to me, but it is something to note.
The case design in tandem with the simplistic dial (not counting the discs) kinda reminds me of MING, especially when I have it on a curved strap. And about straps, my one came with a black leather strap and a Milanese mesh bracelet. The leather one is just okay, and I don't think it matches the watch super well (too thin in my opinion). The mesh bracelet is better quality-wise but it still doesn't really suit the watch to me. I think this watch works best with thick rubber straps (especially when curved like my grey one) or passthrough straps (like a NATO). If you plan to get this watch, do yourself a favor and set aside some cash to buy some better straps. I got my one in the picture for 10 USD on Aliexpress.
At 42mm wide and almost 12mm thick, the case is decently chunky but I think that heft helps the watch stand out more in a way (like a statement piece). The watch uses the Seiko NH35 so that thickness is to be expected anyway. There is a ghost date position which kinda annoys me (especially since Humism only make no-date watches so they could've just bulk ordered the NH38 instead of the NH35) but I can overlook it.
The use of a sapphire crystal is nice, and the AR on it is pretty good; never had any issues with reading the time. And about reading the time, I find this watch to be quite legible. Yeah, there's a big pair of discs in the middle, but when I want to check the time, my brain can easily track and identify the hour and minute hand (or circle, rather). It could be just me, your mileage may vary.
I love mine as it is, but I would definitely be willing to spend more for one with a hi-beat Miyota 9000-series movement (for an even smoother sweep). Fingers crossed for a future variant?
Anyway, this 42mm Hwan is a fun, unique watch and is more than just a novelty piece. Especially with the sapphire crystal and reliable Seiko NH35, it easily separates itself from cheaper novelty fashion watches that use mineral crystals and cheapo quartz movements. If you're looking for a unique watch that can stand the test of time, I would recommend Humism any day of the week.
