Update 2/27/17: The watch stopped for the first time in six years. I left it outside in partial sunlight for an entire day; it restarted and has been going accurately since.

Update 1/5/15: The watch is still working perfectly.

This watch came alive and ticking, with no need for a preliminary charge; adjustment was quick and easy. The solar feature is very convenient. There is just one very minor issue I have with how it works: You are not able to adjust the date between the hours of 9:00 PM and 1:00 AM. As a night owl, this is a minor inconvenience for me.

A couple of other things that you should know before buying are the need to re-enter the date after the end of each month that does not have 31 days and that the watch seems to gain a second every week or so. Because the watch is solar powered, it will also have to be kept exposed to ambient light for at least an hour or two a day. Take it to the office or keep it under a lamp when you're not using it.

Aesthetics: The case is fairly easy to look at. The blue dial was not as bright or metallic as I'd thought it would be; it is a very slightly shiny dark blue. The rest of the case is smooth and shiny. The strap that the watch actually comes with flexes to expand, which is convenient and helps those with larger arms avoid the need for adjustment, but that means that it can also sort of pinch your skin. I myself have a very small arm, so I had to have someone adjust this strap to fit me. I'm also not a huge fan of the way the strap looks, but this is a trifle and easily changed for a few dollars more at your local watch shop.

Overall, I'm pretty satisfied. I have no major complaints with the watch and it works very well. If you're willing to dish out a little more money for a new band, do it- Go for black calfskin.