The RZE UTD-8000 generated considerable positive buzz among collectors upon its release. While we've seen plenty of tough digital watches from other brands (G-Shock being the obvious choice), I don't recall seeing anything in titanium at this price point, especially from a microbrand.
I was intrigued by it, as it promised durability and functionality, plus it looked cool in photos! Friend of StrapHabit, Random Rob, was gracious enough to lend me his black and yellow UTD-8000s to review (blue models with a positive LCD are also available).
First Impressions of the RZE UTD-8000
The UTD-8000 is a fun watch to look at, and something different than what I'm used to. It gives the feel of wearing a fitness or GPS watch, but with a much simpler display and operation.
RZE UTD-8000 Details
The digital display is covered by a faceplate that segments the LCD sections and has information about the watch and button functions.
The entire grade 2 titanium case has a sand-blasted finish. The lugs feature sharp, angular edges and are drilled for quick strap swaps with a tool. A fixed bezel is surrounded by four screws that appear to be securing it (although I suspect they only connect to the screws on the caseback).
It features text at the top and bottom, not unlike that you'd find on a G-Shock. Each model also features an aluminum ring beneath the bezel, anodized to match the dial color.
Wearing the RZE UTD-8000
The UTD is 42mm wide by 13.4mm thick. The caseback sticks out below the case, so it doesn't appear as thick as it actually is when viewed from the side on the wrist. While it may be a bit large for a more traditional watch, it's compact and feels light when compared to a G-shock or more advanced fitness watch.
The strap and replacement straps for the RZE UTD-8000
Both models come with elastic straps featuring hook-and-loop closures in black or yellow, which correspond to the faceplate surrounding the dial. The straps are comfortable and lightweight (as elastic straps tend to be) and work well with the titanium case.
Rob also sent RZE's titanium bracelet, which can be added for an additional $230. The entire bracelet has a sand-blasted finish. The edges are a bit sharp, but it never pinched my skin. H-links make it very flexible. For existing RZE fans, it is also compatible with some of the brand's other watches.
The links are secured with screws, making it easy to size. It also features a slim and easy-to-use quick-adjust mechanism. Push the button inside the clasp to lengthen it, or slide it back in to shorten.
The UTD-8000 has a 20mm lug width, providing numerous options for replacement straps. The Vented Rubber straps looked cool on it, as well as the Deployant Sailcloth.
Here is a list of some other straps that will complement this watch well. You can also view our Guide to Choosing a Watch Strap.
-Hook and Loop Elastic
-Pro Diver
-Ribbed Rubber Pass-Through
-Ridge Rubber
-Extra Long Ridge Rubber
-Tropical Rubber
-Premium Sailcloth
-Rubber and Sailcloth Hybrid Straps
-Slim Ridge Rubber
-Waffle Rubber
-Seatbelt
RZE UTD-8000 Movement
The digital module in the UTD-8000 provides a large display of the day, time, and date. It also features an alarm and a stopwatch function. RZE doesn't disclose who makes the module, only stating that it "is a customized module manufactured exclusively for the UTD-8000."
Unfortunately, it lacks features compared to other brands (for example, world time and countdown functions are not available). The Casio Royale offers these features at about 13% of the price of the RZE, but that watch is also made of plastic and not titanium, so it's not a fair comparison.
Casio owners will also have to re-learn the button layout, as the UTD-8000 orients them differently. Not a big deal, however, as they are clearly labelled. I found it easy to set up the watch without reading the instructions.
While the UTD-8000's module has been rated to +/- 45 seconds per month, RZE says to expect +/- 15 seconds based on its testing. It is rated for 3 years of operation on one easy-to-find CR2032 battery.
RZE UTD-8000 Conclusion
While a Casio G-Shock is an obvious comparison when considering shock-resistant and digital watches, the UTD-8000 also reminded me a bit of a Seiko Fieldmaster. The Seiko is only slightly more expensive than the RZE and offers additional features such as solar charging and expanded timing functions. You can also buy digital G-Shocks for less that offer atomic or Bluetooth sync capabilities. That being said, those watches will be made of plastic. Metal G-Shocks are significantly more expensive, and anything titanium from the brand costs thousands.
The RZE UTD-8000 is for someone who wants a simple analog field watch with a rugged titanium case, but needs a few additional functions. This watch offers that in a legible and easy-to-use package, without all the extra bells and whistles.
RZE UTD-8000 Specifications
Name: RZE UTD-8000
Reference Number: UTD-8000-MY (yellow), -BK (black)
MSRP: $230 (+$180 for Titanium Bracelet)
Diameter: 42mm
Height: 49.5
Thickness: 13.4mm
Lug Width: 20mm
Movement: Custom UTD-8000 Multi-Function Digital Module
Power Reserve: 3 years
Water Resistance: 200m
Crystal: Sapphire with inner AR
Crown: Push-button
Bezel: Grade 2 Titanium
Strap: Elastic and titanium bracelet