AV86 1968 MoonphasevsGeckota Pioneer 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.

1968 Moonphase

Pioneer Automatic
Diameter
39mm
42mm
Lug-to-Lug
46mm
45mm
lowest
Thickness
11.3mm
lowest
14mm
Water Resistance
50m
100m
highest
MSRP
$295
lowest
$299
Movement
Miyota 6P20
Seiko NH35
Case
7 specsCrystal & Dial
2 specsMovement
2 specsPricing
1 specsReviews
Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.
The AV86 1968 Moonphase is noted for its unique moonphase complication, which includes a hidden balance wheel. Owners praise the brand's design work on this piece. However, some consider it a fashion watch and suggest better quality alternatives are available at its price point, though they recommend purchasing it if the aesthetic is appealing. Overall, owners rate the AV86 1968 Moonphase positively for its distinctive aesthetic, despite some suggesting alternatives offer better value.
The Geckota Pioneer Automatic is praised for its retro-futuristic design, impressive lume, and a unique vertical brushing on the dial that shifts color. Owners appreciate its value, with one noting it as a bargain at $259, and find the styling clean with a comfortable fit. Some owners are specifically drawn to the red dial variant, noting its appearance and vintage feel. However, the thin cross-hair design can disappear from a distance, and the 42mm case size is considered large for a cushion watch. One owner reports the crystal is very reflective despite AR coating, and gold accents appear cheap. Accuracy varies, with one owner seeing +/- 20 seconds per day and another finding it surprisingly accurate. Overall, owners rate the Geckota Pioneer Automatic highly for its distinctive design and value, despite some noted finishing and legibility concerns.
The radial brushed fumé dial and applied indices are a strong point. The 42mm case size and 48.4mm lug-to-lug measurement may wear large on smaller wrists. Reviewers did not explicitly disagree on any specific points.
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