Gruppo Gamma Vanguard SteelvsPraesidus 42mm 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
42mm Automatic
Diameter
42mm
38mm
Lug-to-Lug
49.5mm
45mm
lowest
Thickness
12.6mm
11mm
lowest
Water Resistance
100m
100m
Power Reserve
42h
n/a
MSRP
$790
$269
lowest
Movement
Miyota 9039
Seiko NH35
Case
5 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 report Praesidus field watches are nicely made. Reviewers note the Seiko NH35 movement is an option. One owner finds the recessed 4 o'clock crown historically accurate but difficult to operate. The khaki lume is criticized by one reviewer. Overall, owners and reviewers find Praesidus field watches to be well-made for the price.
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