Christopher Ward C63 ValourvsMarathon Arctic Steel Navigator

The Christopher Ward C63 Valour is praised for its beautiful, deep dial with 3D applied markers and indices, its great look, and its symmetry, with some calling it one of the best-looking and most affordable chronographs available. Reviewers note its Light-catcher case with flowing curves and contrasting brushed and polished finishes, and a matte black dial with applied numerals and sub-dials featuring differently colored hands. The watch is powered by a thermocompensated, chronometer-certified quartz movement, specifically the ETA G10.212 AD, which Christopher Ward claims offers accuracy of +/- 10 seconds per year, though some users question this, citing ETA's stated accuracy of +/- 73 seconds per year. Owners are split on the use of a quartz movement in a watch at this price point, with some preferring mechanical movements, while others defend quartz for its reliability, thinner profile, accuracy, and lower service costs.

The Marathon Arctic Steel Navigator is praised for its pragmatic, no-nonsense design and comfortable wearability due to its thinner, ergonomic steel case. Owners and reviewers highlight its highly accurate ETA F06.412 quartz movement, which offers exceptional timekeeping and a seven-year battery life with a field-serviceable battery port. One owner reported their Arctic Steel Navigator's pip fell out shortly after unboxing, and the bezel later became gritty and hard to turn, though another owner found success cleaning their gritty bezel with soap and water. A reviewer noted a preference for a different strap design for a cleaner tail tuck. On balance, owners and reviewers rate the Marathon Arctic Steel Navigator highly for its pragmatic design and accurate, reliable quartz movement.