Maen has introduced several interesting new releases in recent months.
First, the Swedish brand with Dutch roots updated the Hudson 38 MK5 model. This was followed by the continuation of collaboration with Nico Leonard - the Grand Tonneau Ultra-Thin. Last month, the updated Hudson GMT MKII was presented. Today, the brand launches the long-awaited Manhattan 37 Ultra-Thin version, which opens the new Maen Boutique Exclusive series. This collection will include different variations of base models and experimental designs.
The Concept of Maen's Boutique Exclusive Series
The Boutique Exclusive series is a new line that opens up possibilities for creating unusual watches. For it, Maen will apply a unique sales strategy: each new release will be available on the official website for only 24 hours. After this window, sales will be conducted exclusively through Maen's retail network. Some models will be created for specific markets, while others will be for global distribution. Limited editions for special events and the flagship showroom in downtown Stockholm are also planned. This approach gives the brand freedom to experiment and develop innovative solutions, promising interesting prospects.
New Model Maen Manhattan 37 Ultra-Thin Boutique Exclusive
The premiere release in the series is the updated version of the Manhattan 37 Ultra-Thin. At first glance, the watch may seem familiar, but it is actually a combination of two popular models, frequently requested by brand fans. The Manhattan collection is known for its retro 70s design with an integrated bracelet, while maintaining modernity. Maen releases the Manhattan in two sizes - 37 mm and 39 mm, with 37 mm considered optimal by many enthusiasts.
The lineup of smaller models includes the regular Manhattan 37 with a Côtes de Genève dial and the automatic caliber La Joux-Perret G100, as well as the Manhattan Ultra 37 Ultra-Thin with a thinner case. However, the Ultra-Thin has a different dial design with a "hammered" texture and a small seconds hand at the "6 o'clock" position, and it houses the manual caliber La Joux-Perret D100. The new model combines the best features of both versions and is the first release in the Boutique Exclusive series.
Technical Specifications of Maen Manhattan 37 Ultra-Thin Boutique Exclusive
Let's look at the details of the new release. The 37 mm case is made of stainless steel, with a thickness of 7.1 mm and a lug-to-lug distance of 47.4 mm. This is the same case as the standard version of the Manhattan 37 Ultra-Thin with a small seconds hand. However, the new model lacks the small seconds - the dial displays only hours and minutes, akin to classic Nautilus and Royal Oak.
The dial design mirrors the automatic version of the Manhattan 37 with Côtes de Genève decoration. A new fumé style variant with a deep midnight blue shade has been created for the Boutique Exclusive.
The vignette adds depth and visual expressiveness, with the color slightly darker than the standard blue. The indices are separately applied and filled with Super-LumiNova luminous material. Classic hour and minute hands ensure easy time reading and harmoniously complement the watch's style.
La Joux-Perret D101 Movement
The back of the watch reveals the manually wound La Joux-Perret D101 caliber. It operates at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour, contains 18 jewels, and provides a power reserve of up to 50 hours. This ultra-thin movement is a version of the D100, popular with many independent brands, but with a simplified construction intended to display only hours and minutes.
The look is completed by an integrated three-row bracelet, familiar from the standard Manhattan Ultra-Thin models. It features screw links, making size adjustments easier. The bracelet successfully combines flexibility and strength, providing comfort and a sense of quality. The butterfly clasp is adorned with the Maen logo and locks in only one position - a small but thoughtful design element.
Wearing Features of Maen Manhattan 37 Ultra-Thin Boutique Exclusive
On the wrist, the watch looks and feels excellent. The thin 7.1 mm profile makes the model particularly comfortable and light, surpassing the standard Manhattan 37 with an automatic caliber (9.3 mm thickness) in this aspect. Despite its elegance, the watch does not feel fragile - the case has a noticeable weight and high-quality execution, creating a sense of reliability and premium quality.
The style of the watch is unique: retro elements are combined with modern details like the shape of the hands and large hour markers. Initially, I preferred the "hammered" texture of the standard Ultra-Thin, but the new version with the Côtes de Genève dial and fumé effect impresses with depth and visual complexity, significantly raising the model's status.
Final Assessment of Maen Manhattan 37 Ultra-Thin Boutique Exclusive
Overall, Maen has managed to create another successful model in the Manhattan 37 Ultra-Thin series by presenting it in the Boutique Exclusive format. The demand for such a version is obvious, and brand fans are sure to appreciate it. Personally, I find this the most successful model in the series - the minimalistic two-hand configuration highlights the elegance of the design. The absence of a central seconds hand and additional subdials keeps the dial clean and stylish - an idea that Gerald Genta successfully implemented in his legendary watches.
Maen demonstrates that even small changes can provide a fresh perspective on an existing model. This release is likely to sell out quickly. As mentioned, the watch is available for pre-order on the official website for only 24 hours, after which sales will continue through retail. Deliveries will begin at the end of November 2026.
The price is €1499 including VAT on a steel bracelet. An additional integrated rubber strap can be purchased for €149. The cost is in line with regular Ultra-Thin models, which is pleasing as exclusive releases from other brands are usually more expensive. It's nice to see that Maen not only takes fan preferences into account but also maintains a reasonable price for the first release of the Boutique Exclusive series. This sparks interest in the further development of the collection. For now, the Manhattan 37 Ultra-Thin is an excellent start.