Side by side

Phoibos NarwhalvsSpinnaker Challenger Automatic

The numbers, the dial colors, the calibers — laid out so you can stop flipping between tabs.

Narwhal
PhoibosNarwhal
MSRP $509
Challenger Automatic
SpinnakerChallenger Automatic
MSRP $289

At a glance

10 of 29 specs differ
Diameter
Narwhal38mm
Challenger Automatic42mm
Power Reserve
Narwhal40h
Challenger Automatic40h
Water Resistance
Narwhal200m
Challenger Automatic200m
MSRP
Narwhal$509
Challenger Automatic$289

Full specifications

Case

5 specs
Diameter
38mm
42mm
Thickness
11.5mm
19mm
Lug-to-Lug
46mm
49.5mm
Lug Width
20mm
22mm
Material
Stainless Steel
316L Stainless Steel

Crystal & Dial

3 specs
AR Coating
Yes
Inner
Dial Color
Malachite
Blue
Lume
Super-LumiNova
None

Movement

1 specs
Caliber
Miyota 9015
SII NH35A

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$509
$289

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What people say

Owners + reviewers, side by side

Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.

Phoibos Narwhal

Owners widely praise the Phoibos Narwhal's 38mm size and slim 11.5mm height for a 200m diver, noting it wears well on smaller wrists and its case shape resembles an integrated bracelet. The aventurine and Howlite dials are described as captivating, and some appreciate the contrast finishing and retro looks. However, some owners criticize misaligned markers and a tilted date window, with one owner finding the hands thick and popsicle-style. The value proposition is debated, with some finding it a good buy at $390 but others considering $480-$490 too much due to a slabby design and difficult-to-size bracelet. On balance, owners find the Phoibos Narwhal appealing for its design and wearability, though quality control and pricing are points of contention for some.

From video reviewers

The unique stone dial is a significant strength. The bracelet's refinement is a weakness. Reviewers disagree on the dial's appeal, with one highlighting its sunburst effect and applied indices, while another focuses on the natural stone variation.

Spinnaker Challenger Automatic

The Spinnaker Challenger Automatic is widely praised for its fun, playful design, solid build quality, and satisfying bezel action. Owners appreciate the comfortable 42mm DLC-coated case and the thoughtful integration of the Popeye theme, with the character serving as the hour and minute hands. Reviewers note the reliable Seiko NH35 movement and 300m water resistance. Some owners find the blue lume weaker than expected, and the ultra-domed sapphire crystal presents challenges for photography. The thick rubber strap is also cited as difficult to manage. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the Spinnaker Challenger Automatic highly for its unique character integration and solid dive watch fundamentals at its price point.

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