AVI-8 Spitfire Lock ChronographvsSeiko Astron

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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.

AVI-8 Spitfire Lock Chronograph at true scale

Spitfire Lock Chronograph

Seiko Astron at true scale

Astron

Diameter

42mm

43.3mm

Lug-to-Lug

50mm

49.5mm

lowest

Thickness

12mm

lowest

13.4mm

Water Resistance

50m

100m

highest

MSRP

$260

lowest

$2,700

Movement

Quartz

Seiko 5X83

Case

6 specs
Diameter
42mm
43.3mm
Thickness
12mm
13.4mm
Lug-to-Lug
50mm
49.5mm
Lug Width
22mm
14mm
Material
316L Stainless Steel
Titanium
Water Resistance
50m
100m

Crystal & Dial

5 specs
Crystal
Mineral
Sapphire
Crystal Shape
n/a
Curved
AR Coating
n/a
Super-clear coating
Dial Color
MIDNIGHT OAK
n/a
Lume
None
LumiBrite on hands and index(es)

Movement

2 specs
Caliber
n/a
Seiko 5X83
Jewels
0
14

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$260
$2,700
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Reviews

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

AVI-8 Spitfire Lock Chronograph

Owners widely appreciate the AVI-8 Spitfire Lock Chronograph's compelling design, drawing inspiration from Supermarine Spitfires with details like a prominent crown and rivets, and find the build quality excellent for the price. The watch features a 42mm stainless steel case with curved lugs for wearability, a bi-compax layout with subdials for elapsed time and a 24-hour scale, and black lume that glows green. Some owners note that AVI-8 watches offer something different and are decently well-made, though not of insane quality, and one reviewer found the included leather strap and bracelet to be the weakest aspects. On balance, owners and reviewers rate the AVI-8 Spitfire Lock Chronograph highly for its striking design and good value at its price point.

Seiko Astron

Owners widely praise the Seiko Astron for its impressive timekeeping technology and grab-and-go convenience, with many appreciating its lightweight titanium build and well-finished case and bracelet. Reviewers and owners alike highlight the dynamic and detailed dials, often comparing their execution to higher-end brands. The solar-powered quartz movement with GPS time sync is a significant draw for its accuracy and ease of use, especially for travelers. However, some owners find the price point of around $2000 to $2400 too high when compared to luxury mechanical watches or smartwatches, and one owner noted disappointing accuracy of +13 seconds per month for its cost. Other points of contention include recessed buttons requiring a tool and a push-pull crown with a non-screw-down caseback raising water resistance concerns for some.

From video reviewers

The watch's automatic time zone adjustment via GPS is a notable feature. The watch's solar-powered charging system can take up to 6 months to fully charge, which may not be ideal for users who need a quick power boost.