Side by side

Phoibos NarwhalvsZelos Helmsman 3

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

Narwhal
PhoibosNarwhal
MSRP $509
Helmsman 3
ZelosHelmsman 3
MSRP $529

At a glance

8 of 29 specs differ
Diameter
Narwhal38mm
Helmsman 340mm
Power Reserve
Narwhal40h
Helmsman 340h
Water Resistance
Narwhal200m
Helmsman 3200m
MSRP
Narwhal$509
Helmsman 3$529

Full specifications

Case

3 specs
Diameter
38mm
40mm
Lug-to-Lug
46mm
40mm
Material
Stainless Steel
316L Stainless Steel

Crystal & Dial

4 specs
Crystal
Sapphire
Domed Sapphire
AR Coating
Yes
Inner
Dial Color
Black
SS - Frost
Lume
Super-LumiNova
None

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$509
$529

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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.

Zelos Helmsman 3

Owners widely praise the Zelos Helmsman 3 for its exceptional finishing and polishing on the titanium case, with some noting it feels nicer than previous models. The unique Titanium Crystalline Dial and Damascus Titanium dial are frequently highlighted as aesthetically pleasing and head-turning features, especially considering the price point. The brushed beads of rice bracelet is described as fitting well, and the on-the-fly clasp is considered amazing. Lume is also noted as great, with lumed crowns being a positive observation. However, some owners report the watch can feel top-heavy with sharp edges, making it uncertain as a daily driver for some. The meteorite bezel is seen by one owner as not adding significant value, and the stock strap's keepers and stitching were considered to detract from the watch's appearance.

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