C3 Design Navy Solar - 36mm USA

Sale price$ 319
A timeless design watch with the ocean-ready specs, assembled in the USA and powered by light. Sized at 36mm, a great fit for smaller wrists.
Your Build: C3 Design | 36mm Small/Retro
Sizing Guide

Need Help Choosing a Case Size?

Here at Vaer our goal is to build watches that can be worn everyday, in all conditions. A critical aspect of longterm wear is comfort and fit. Having a watch that is either too big, or too small can quickly disqualify it from a place in your daily rotation. If you're new to watch case sizing, below is a general overview of the sizes of our 5 core case designs.

If you'd like to read our comprehensive guide to case sizing click here.

Watches are measured by case diameter. This measurement does not include the crown or lugs.

1) 36mm - Smaller Wrists
2) 38mm - Small/Medium Wrists
3) 39mm - Medium Wrists
4) 40mm - Medium Wrists
5) 42mm - Medium/Large Wrists

With that in mind, we've created this case sizing guide to help you choose the watch that is ideal for your particular wrist shape and style preference.

Notes: All Vaer watches are shown on the same 7 inch (177mm) diameter wrist. This is approximately the median wrist size of an adult man. Watches are shown in size from smallest to largest.

1) 36mm Field Case 

Sizing Guide: Best for Smaller Wrists
Suggested For:
6.25”- 7.25” wrists
36mm models: S3, C3, A3, A7, A12  


2) 38mm Dive Case

Sizing Guide: Best for Smaller Wrists
Suggested For:
 6.5”- 7.5” wrists
38mm models: DS4, D4, DS5, R1 Oceanracer


3) 39mm Dive Case

Sizing Guide: Best for Medium Wrists
Suggested For:
 6.5”- 7.75” wrists
39mm models: D5, G5, G7

4) 40mm Field Case

Sizing Guide: Best for Medium Wrists
Suggested For:
 6.5”- 7.75” wrists
40mm models: S5, C5, A5, A12, R1 Rally & Tactical

5) 42mm Dive Case 

Sizing Guide: Best for Medium/Large Wrists
Suggested For:
 7”- 8.5” wrists
42mm models: D4, DS4, DS5, D5

🔒 Free Waterproof Strap: Silicone Ocean Strap - Navy ($20 Value)
Choose Your Custom Strap: Nylon - Khaki (+$0)
Strap Sizing Guide

Need help choosing your straps?

One of the most rewarding aspects of owning a watch is the opportunity for customize your straps. In addition to adding a unique personality to your timepiece, changing your straps is a great way to increase a watches value and functionality. Here at Vaer, every watch we sell comes with your choice to 2x quick change straps.

In addition to a comfortable Primary Strap made for in-water functionality, we allow you to choose from a wide range of Secondary Straps to suit a variety of functions and styles.

Because different straps have different manufacturing costs your choice of Secondary Strap will be reflected in the watch's final retail cost. All strap options can also be purchased individually if you're interesting in buying a third, or fourth strap.

Note: All Vaer watch straps are sized for 20mm lugs and are cross compatible between models. Vaer bracelets are custom fitted and are NOT cross compatible. 

RUBBER STRAPS

Ocean Strap

Fits: 6” - 8.25” wrists.
Material: Silicone or FKM.
Summary: A comfortable, classic waterproof strap - great for slim wrists.

 

FKM Tropic Strap 

Fits: 6” - 8.5” wrists.
Material: FKM Rubber.
Summary: A comfortable, heavy-duty waterproof strap made of dense FKM rubber.

 

FKM Waffle Strap 

Fits: 6” - 8.5” wrists.
Material: FKM Rubber.
Summary: A comfortable, heavy-duty waterproof strap made of dense FKM rubber.

  

LEATHER STRAPS

Horween Leather Strap 

Fits: 6.25” - 8.5” wrists.
Material: 
premium American leather.
Summary: 
A beautiful Made in USA leather strap, tanned by Horween in Chicago.

  

STEEL BRACELETS

3-Link Bracelet 

Fits: 6.5” - 8.5” wrists.
Material:
 316L Stainless Steel.
Summary: Our 3-link steel bracelet balances finish and cost, to deliver a great all-purpose waterproof option. Uses friction fit pins for bracelet resizing. Bracelet tapers to 18mm.

Jubilee Bracelet 

Fits: 6.5” - 8.5” wrists.
Material: 316L Stainless Steel.
Summary: Our Jubilee steel bracelet has custom-fit end links, and is designed to fit a specific Vaer watch. While some bracelets may fit on other watch models this is not something we can guarantee.  Bracelet tapers to 16mm.


NYLON STRAPS

Single Pass Nylon Strap 

Fits: 5.5” - 9” wrists.
Material: Nylon.
Summary: A rugged all-purpose single-pass strap design adapted from military watches. This strap requires spring-bar installation, and is not a quick-release strap.

Nylon Strap 

Fits: 6” - 8.75” wrists.
Material: Nylon.
Summary: A comfortable, all-purpose waterproof strap made of seatbelt weaved nylon.

 

Sold out 3x times - Order before it sells out!
Waterproof Warranty - Free Domestic Shipping
Only 50 units left
Free USA Shipping

With optional to 2-day shipping available.

Waterproof Warranty

Guaranteed 100% ocean-ready.

Two Straps Standard

Our 20mm straps are interchangeable

With its “always re-charging” solar movement, full American assembly, and best-in-class durability, the C3 is the perfect go-anywhere sport watch.

Why we love it

Since it was first released in 2019, the C5 Design Navy has been a standout in the Vaer lineup, delivering a modern and colorful design aesthetic, while still delivering best-in-class outdoor specs. In 2021, it was joined by the smaller 36mm C3 version, which was equally popular. While traditional quartz models can last decades with proper care, the inconvenience of battery changes every few years often leaves them unused, especially for folks who live in remote off-grid regions. Solar solves this problem - by delivering a watch just as refined and rugged as ever, with the added bonus of never needing to replace the power-source.

Customers Also Love

"The perfect combo of style, durability and value."

- Huckberry

330

Feet of Water Resistance

This watch is perfect for swimming and surfing, and it's protected by our waterproof warranty.

10000+

Five Star Reviews

Our success has been built on delivering exceptional value to our owners.

The Perfect Everyday Watch

Leaving on a trip with only one watch? This would be it. Durable and elegant, accurate and affordable, the C3 has everything you need, and nothing you don't. Best of all, it's a great conversation starter - thanks to its unique characteristic of full US assembly.

1. Ocean-Ready

Life is unpredictable. The perfect everyday watch needs to provide peace of mind in all conditions. Whether you're heading out in the rain or taking a jump in the pool, this watch never needs to be left on the sidelines.

2. Scratch Resistant

Impact is inevitable. When it happens, you want to be sure your watch won't scratch. That's why we use premium sapphire crystal to protect our dials (the second hardest material after diamond).

3. Easy Customization

Every day is different. And the easiest way to switch up the look (and functionality) of your watch is to change straps. That's why every Vaer watch ships with 2x quick-change strap options.

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Watches for Every Budget

Compare with similar watches

Many of our watches look similar, though have very different prices. This is due to movement type (the watch's power source), and assembly origin. Below you can find a chart comparing how different models stack up.

Best For

Extended Off-Grid Use

Extended Off-Grid Use

Power Source

Ambient Light

Ambient Light

Sapphire Crystal

Yes

Yes

Yes

Waterproof Warranty

Yes

Yes

Yes

Pride in USA Craftsmanship

We've always invested in USA sourcing, and today, we're proud to be the largest independent watch assembler in the United States. We're committed to American production not only because it improves product quality, but also because it adds a strong sense of identity to our brand.

Learn More

Confidence to Disconnect

Our mission at Vaer is to make products that will last and become more important and personally significant over time. While luxury and technology have a place in modern life, the products we love the most are durable everyday items that promote values of simplicity and independence.

Freedom in Customization

Every watch we've ever sold has come standard with two interchangeable 20mm Vaer straps. This cross-compatibility across our entire product line, gives owners increased functionality and value, with the option to easily change up their strap.

Frequently Asked Questions

Whether it's our ocean-based roots in Venice Beach,our thousands of five-star customer reviews, or our unique position as the largest independent assembler of watches in the United States, there's a lot to talk about with Vaer. We firmly believe that the more you learn about our watches and company, the more likely you'll be interested in supporting our brand. If you have a more detailed question, feel free to visit our FAQ below.

Our team is available Monday to Friday: 9am-5pm PSTOur team usually replies in a few hours
Contact Our Team

Overall rating: 4.6571074 / 5 from 802 reviews.

AI Generated Review Summary

The C3 Design Navy Solar watch offers a perfect blend of Bauhaus minimalism and rugged outdoor functionality. Its solar-powered movement ensures perpetual timekeeping with incredible accuracy, while the clean dial and excellent lume provide readability in any light. The watch is praised for its exceptional quality, stylish design, and great value, making it suitable for both casual and formal occasions.

Summary topics

  • Dial Readability (7%): Customers keep praising the beautiful and clean dial, which stands out on the wrist and is easy to read.
  • Watch Quality (15%): Many customers pointed out that the quality of the watch is exceptional and top-notch.
  • Watch Design (10%): Customers raved about the design, with many describing it as excellent, clean, classic, and cool.
  • Strap Comfort (12%): Customers loved the straps, finding them comfortable, stylish, and well-made, making them worth the price.
  • Watch Size (11%): It was noted by customers that the size of the watch is perfect for various body types.

Review topics: [].

Review highlights

  • "I put the watch on and was extremely impressed with the movement, feel, weight, size, lume, dials, everything."Jake G.
  • "My new favorite watch - I love the size, comfort, legibility, design, and solar power."Anonymous
  • "The size is perfect, the band is extremely comfortable, the design is rock-solid and handsome."Joseph B.

Reviews

Bracelet problem for smaller wrists.

"I ordered the 36mm and paid extra $100 for the Jubilee bracelet. The bracelet does not have enough adjustability to fit my 6. 25" wrist correctly. I can get the bracelet to fit my wrist however, due to the lack of adjustability or additional links to be taken out, I cannot get the clasp to line up in the center. I suggest people with smaller wrists to not get the bracelet especially if they are OCD like me about getting the right fit."

EK (2/5)

Everything I wanted and nothing I didn't want

"The title sums it up. All boxes checked. Sapphire crystal, screw-down crown and back with great water resistance specs, quartz accuracy, solar power, great lume, no complications, good field-style look. Bonus is what I believe to be an anti-reflection coating that gives light- blue glints when the sun hits just right. If I were to change anything, it would be one thing only and it's because my eyes aren't the best. I would probably shorten the hour-hand slightly to better differentiate it. If your eyes are good you will better see the skinny metallic extended parts of the hands and you probably wouldn't have this recommendation. Very pleased. Highly recommended. Vaer does well to ensure each watch model has at least the minimum attributes mentioned above (except solar and quartz if you prefer something else). The reliable base-quality keeps me interested in other models in their line. Keep it up, Vaer."

Leon Z. (5/5)

I was looking for a

"I was looking for a Field watch that I can just grab and go, without worrying about winding or sufficient battery, so the solar quartz was what I was looking for. The C3 Korean Field is a solid construction, rugged enough to wear out and about, and love that it came with 2 straps, rubber and nylon, and ease of interchanging as needed. Definitely recommend for a solid grab and go watch, that's perfect for outdoor activity."

Brian M. (5/5)

Great Watch

"I bought the 36mm size because I have a small wrist. It is perfect. I also purchased the tan leather bracelet and I'm so glad I did. It is beautiful and really complements the watch face. I mistakenly bought an additional black strap when I meant to order a tan one. Operator error. Otherwise, signed, a happy customer. . ."

Dipacmr (5/5)

Great versatility!

"I bought this watch as my new daily and absolutely love it! It feels bulletproof and the design works extremely well with all kind of straps. I really like the original rubber band, the metal bracelet as well as the nylon strap, all of which transform the style of the watch completely. My favorite is a vintage leather strap which makes it quite warm and low key elegant."

David B. (5/5)

I absolutely love Vaer. I

"I absolutely love Vaer. I bought my first watch five summers ago and I keep coming back. Baristas, colleagues, and even children have complimented my Vaer watches. This model is light, durable and beautiful. I can wear at the beach, rugby practice, and even at night. I also dress it up with a Horween leather strap."

Evelyn M. (5/5)

"Perfect compact size, beautiful design. Great daily watch for work and outdoors."

Jouni (5/5)

I love this watch. It

"I love this watch. It is easy to read, Keeps perfect time to the second (just checked with time. is), the solar charging is outstanding. I wish the lume was more robust, but I shine a 395nm black light on it to make it visible at night. I added a Rios SHORT leather strap in navy, which complements the dial."

Thomas L. (4/5)

The watch is as advertised.

"The watch is as advertised. I very much like how long the solar charged battery lasts. I want it to look good. It does I don’t want to have to fiddle with it. I don’t have to. I did not get a watch with the date on it. I’m retired. I don’t care. So fiddling with date adjustments is not necessary. I got the leather band as well as the silicon. Both are comfortable. There is an easy to switch wrist band system on this watch which also works well. I’m very happy with it."

Bruce H. (5/5)

Surpassed my expectations

"I'm an American who loves my country, but I'm also in a position where details matter and signaling is important. My preferred brand has been Longines. I've always looked for the perfect ratio between quality and price. I want to be refined, yet responsible. My thought with Vaer is that the ethos of striving to reinvigorate American watch making adds a special significance to wearing one of their watches. I like their styles, their sizing options, and from what I had read the quality seemed to be what I was looking for. I purchased the C3 Korean Field Solar in 36mm and it genuinely surpassed my expectations, this thing is drop dead gorgeous and well made. I see no reason to keep throwing money at other brands from overseas when such a great product is being assembled at home. I'm proud of my purchase. I'm proud of the American assembly and the fact that Vaer offed a substantial veteran discount. I am most certainly going to continue to purchase from Vaer."

Matthew R. (5/5)

Q&A