Gruppo Gamma Vanguard SteelvsAVI-8 Spitfire Type 300 Automatic
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Measurements
Catalog photos are all shot at the same flattering size. These aren't: every case below shares one millimeter scale.
Vanguard Steel
Spitfire Type 300 Automatic
Diameter
42mm
42mm
Lug-to-Lug
49.5mm
n/a
Thickness
12.6mm
n/a
Water Resistance
100m
highest
50m
Power Reserve
42h
n/a
MSRP
$790
$370
lowest
Movement
Miyota 9039
Automatic
Case
6 specsCrystal & Dial
3 specsMovement
2 specsPricing
1 specsReviews
Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.
Owners widely praise the Gruppo Gamma Vanguard Steel's aged steel case and cream sandwich dial. Some owners, however, note distortion from the sapphire crystal and a lack of minute markers. One owner found the crystal distortion problematic and mentioned difficulty with replacement due to hand fitment. The Gruppo Gamma Vanguard Steel is priced at $730 and features a forged carbon dial with 'Old Radium' Super-LumiNova. Overall, owners appreciate the Gruppo Gamma Vanguard Steel for its distinctive dial and aged case finish, despite some reservations about the crystal.
Movement accuracy is a notable strength, with one reviewer noting a -1.8 second per day deviation after initial testing. A weakness is the substantial price hike for the re-release model, which raises questions about whether the upgrades justify the cost. Reviewers disagree on the watch's originality, with one calling it "decidedly derivative" and the other not mentioning this aspect.
Owners widely praise the AVI-8 Spitfire Type 300 Automatic for its compelling designs and striking color schemes, with one owner noting the brand consistently prompts purchases. The watch is considered a nice piece for $450, featuring a comfortable brown leather strap. However, the included NATO strap feels cheap and is too long for a 7" wrist. One owner noted inaccurate seconds hand movement, and the 15mm thick bronze case is slightly thicker than expected. Overall, owners rate the AVI-8 Spitfire Type 300 Automatic highly for its distinctive designs and value proposition at the $450 price point.
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