Lorier Hyperion GMT (Series I or II) 'Pepsi'
GMT / Travel Watch / Dive-style Tool Watch · Lorier (Independent Microbrand). Based in New York, Lorier is a high-tier microbrand respected for its design-led approach to vintage-inspired tool watches.
Period: Neo-Vintage / 1950s Mid-Century Revival. Stylistic indicators include the 'big crown' without guards, plexiglass crystal, and a bezel inspired by the original Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 6542.
Type
GMT / Travel Watch / Dive-style Tool Watch
Brand
Lorier (Independent Microbrand). Based in New York, Lorier is a high-tier microbrand respected for its design-led approach to vintage-inspired tool watches.
Movement
Automatic, likely the Soprod C125 (Series I) or Miyota 9075 (Series II). Features a 28,000 bph frequency, hacking seconds, and approximately 42 hours of power reserve.
Dimensions
39mm diameter, 10.7mm thickness (excluding crystal), 47mm lug-to-lug, and 20mm lug width. It wears smaller and slimmer than modern GMTs due to its vintage proportions.
Description
The Lorier Hyperion is a masterclass in 'enthusiast-driven' design. It captures the essence of early jet-age travel, specifically channeling the aesthetic of the first GMT-Master. Its thin profile, lack of crown guards, and domed acrylic crystal offer a tactile experience that modern luxury brands often sacrifice for scratch resistance. It is a dedicated travel tool that balances utility with a romanticized view of mid-century horology.
Key Features
Plexiglass 'Bakelite-style' bezel, roulette date wheel at 6 o'clock, 39mm vintage case proportions, and the signature 'Broad Arrow' handset.
Dial Description
Matte black dial with 'broad arrow' style hour hand, baton and triangle applied indices, and a red GMT hand. Features a date window at 6 o'clock with 'roulette' (alternating red/black) numbers. Text confirms '500ft = 150m' and 'USA ASSEMBLY'.
Case Material
316L Marine-grade stainless steel with a mix of brushed surfaces and polished bevels along the lug edges.
Crystal Type
Hesalite / Acrylic domed crystal. This material is chosen for its vintage-accurate warmth and impact resistance, though it is prone to minor surface scratches.
Bezel Details
Bidirectional 24-click bezel with a 'Pepsi' (blue and red) split. The insert is made of plexiglass to mimic the look of mid-century Bakelite bezels, with fully luminous markings.
Crown & Pushers
Over-sized 'Big Crown' at 3 o'clock, screw-down type, featuring the Lorier laurel wreath logo. No crown guards, consistent with 1950s dive watch aesthetics.
Bracelet or Strap
Shown on an olive green ribbed NATO-style nylon strap. Originally sold with a fully brushed stainless steel flat-link bracelet with a push-button clasp.
Caseback Details
Solid stainless steel screw-down caseback, typically featuring minimal engravings centered around the brand name and water resistance specifications.
Movement Type
Automatic, likely the Soprod C125 (Series I) or Miyota 9075 (Series II). Features a 28,000 bph frequency, hacking seconds, and approximately 42 hours of power reserve.
Water Resistance
150 meters (500 feet). While technically suitable for swimming and snorkeling, its primary design function is as a travel GMT; ensure the crown is fully screwed down before water exposure.
Origin & Provenance
USA-based design and assembly; movements are sourced from Switzerland (Soprod) or Japan (Miyota) depending on the production series.
Age Estimate
Modern production (circa 2020–2023). It is a contemporary watch designed to look 60 years old.
Cultural Significance
The Hyperion represents the 'Microbrand Renaissance,' where small companies use modern manufacturing to provide enthusiasts with specific vintage aesthetics that are otherwise only available for tens of thousands of dollars at auction.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The case shows minor signs of wear; the plexiglass crystal appears clear but may have light swirls typical of Hesalite. The bezel remains vibrant without cracks. The aftermarket NATO strap is in good condition.
Value Estimate
MSRP approximately $799. Secondary market value typically ranges from $600 to $750 depending on the inclusion of the original steel bracelet and box/papers.
Care & Maintenance
Acrylic crystal can be polished with Polywatch to remove scratches. Check water resistance every 2 years if swimming. Service the movement every 5-7 years. Avoid magnetic fields which can affect the balance spring.
Similar Watches
Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 6542 (the original inspiration), Baltic Aquascaphe GMT (competitor), Tudor Black Bay GMT (larger, sapphire-based alternative).
Interesting Facts
Lorier is a husband-and-wife team that famously chooses acrylic crystals over sapphire because they believe the 'warmth' and 'distortion' of plastic are essential to the vintage soul of a watch.