When watch reviewer Horological released a video titled "The Problem With Kennett Watches Is...", many viewers probably expected criticism. Instead, the review turned out to be a surprisingly enthusiastic assessment of the Kennett Solaxplorer and a genuine question about why more watch enthusiasts are not talking about the brand.
After spending significant time with the Solaxplorer, the reviewer's conclusion was simple. The biggest issue wasn't the watch itself. It was the fact that a thoughtfully designed, enthusiast-focused watch from a Scottish independent brand had remained largely unnoticed.
A Watch Discovered by Chance
The review begins with an interesting story. Nearly a year before receiving the watch, the reviewer had briefly noticed a Kennett model in a social media post shared by a collector with an impressive watch collection. One particular design detail caught his attention before he moved on and largely forgot about it.
It wasn't until the Scottish Watch Show that he encountered the watch again and had the opportunity to spend proper time with the Solaxplorer. The more he learned about the watch, the more he felt that it was a hidden gem within the microbrand space.
Practicality at the Core
At the heart of the Solaxplorer is the Seiko Epson AS01A solar-powered movement. While many collectors continue to favour mechanical watches, the reviewer highlighted the practical benefits of modern solar technology.
The movement offers approximately four months of power reserve when fully charged, rapid charging capability, and excellent long-term convenience. During accuracy testing, it also performed exceptionally well, reinforcing the movement's reputation for reliability and precision.
Designed for Real-World Ownership
A recurring theme throughout the review was that the Solaxplorer appears to have been designed for everyday ownership rather than simply for marketing photographs.
The availability of replacement rechargeable energy cells for the movement gives owners confidence in the watch's long-term serviceability. This is an important consideration for solar-powered watches and shows that practical ownership was considered from the outset.
The reviewer also defended Kennett's decision to use a mineral crystal rather than sapphire. While sapphire often wins specification comparisons online, mineral crystal offers advantages for an adventure-focused watch. It is less prone to shattering under impact and can easily be restored using a simple polishing compound if scratches occur over time.
This approach reflects a broader philosophy behind the Solaxplorer. Rather than chasing trends or specification-sheet victories, the watch prioritises practical usability.
Exceptional Attention to Detail
One of the strongest compliments paid during the review concerned the quality of the case finishing.
The combination of satin-brushed surfaces, polished flanks, subtle chamfers, and carefully sculpted crown guards creates a level of refinement that exceeds expectations at this price point. The reviewer repeatedly noted that the watch felt far more considered than many competing offerings.
The design also benefits from excellent visual consistency. Every element, from the case profile to the crown and caseback, feels connected to a unified design language. Nothing appears generic or added as an afterthought.
According to the review, the Solaxplorer feels like a watch that has been carefully developed and refined rather than assembled from off-the-shelf components.
A Surprisingly Complex Dial Design
Although the Solaxplorer initially appears straightforward, the dial reveals significant complexity when examined closely.
The sandwich dial construction incorporates multiple layers, including a minute track, rehaut, sunburst outer ring, Arabic numerals, retaining rings, and a central solar receptor. Together, these elements create depth and visual interest while maintaining excellent legibility.
The orange seconds hand introduces just enough colour to give the watch character without becoming distracting, while the sword-style hands remain highly functional and easy to read.
The dial is complemented by Swiss Super-LumiNova BGW9, which provides strong low-light visibility and remains legible throughout the night. Once again, practicality and usability are at the forefront of the design.
Built for Adventure
The Solaxplorer's aluminium bezel was another highlight.
Rather than opting for a glossy ceramic insert, Kennett chose aluminium to better suit the watch's tool-watch aesthetic. The reviewer felt this decision gave the watch a more authentic and traditional character.
The bezel action itself received particularly high praise, with virtually no backplay and a precise, reassuring click action that contributes positively to the ownership experience.
Combined with 100 metres of water resistance, a choice of high-quality FKM rubber or sailcloth straps, and a lightweight, wearable profile, the Solaxplorer delivers everything expected from a modern adventure watch.
Why More Collectors Should Be Paying Attention
After discussing the watch in detail, the reviewer finally revealed the "problem" referred to in the video's title.
His criticism had nothing to do with the watch itself. Instead, he questioned how a brand producing watches of this quality could remain so unknown, particularly given its local presence and clear commitment to thoughtful design.
The Solaxplorer is not a generic catalogue watch with a logo applied to it. It is a carefully developed product that reflects genuine passion for watchmaking and a clear understanding of what enthusiasts value in a daily-wear timepiece.
Final Thoughts
The Kennett Solaxplorer succeeds because it focuses on the fundamentals. It combines practical solar technology, excellent wearability, thoughtful design details, and a clear identity into a watch that feels purpose-built rather than trend-driven.
Horological's review highlights something many collectors claim to want: an independent brand creating original, well-executed watches with genuine attention to detail. The Solaxplorer delivers exactly that.
According to the reviewer, the real problem with Kennett watches is not the watches themselves. The real problem is that more people have not discovered them yet.
