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Independent Watchmakers · 2026-08-24

Sunrex Banana Reef makes a solar chronograph feel adventurous

A cushion-shaped case and vintage ocean-exploration cues give a light-powered chronograph unusual character.

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By Chronolume digest · Original English summary · Based on Sunrex official website; selected from Teddy Baldassarre's 2026 microbrand guide

Sunrex Banana Reef, pictured in Teddy Baldassarre's microbrand guide.
Sunrex Banana Reef, pictured in Teddy Baldassarre's microbrand guide. Teddy Baldassarre ↗

What to know

The Banana Reef from Sunrex is an unconventional combination of old and new. Its broad, dark cushion-shaped case, contrasting subdials and warm strap recall an era of experimental underwater equipment, while the dial layout remains recognisably that of a sporting chronograph.

The Banana Reef’s leather strap and dark case.
The Banana Reef’s leather strap and dark case. Sunrex / official product and press photography ↗

Instead of a traditional mechanical chronograph, Sunrex uses its Viluminus solar-powered system. The appeal is practical as well as aesthetic: charging from light avoids the routine battery replacement associated with ordinary quartz watches. Few microbrands pursue solar chronographs with this degree of visual personality, making the Banana Reef a particularly distinctive piece in the category.

A close view of the black-and-gold chronograph dial.
A close view of the black-and-gold chronograph dial. Sunrex / official product and press photography ↗

Source & attribution

Sunrex official website; selected from Teddy Baldassarre's 2026 microbrand guide · Published 2026-08-24 ↗

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