AVI-8 Spitfire Smith AutomaticvsMarathon Arctic Steel Navigator

Owners praise the AVI-8 Spitfire Smith Automatic for its dial depth created by elevated numerals, a deeply signed buckle, and detailed case sides. The watch is also noted for being practically mark-free with no dings found, and comes with a barely worn brown leather AVI-8 OEM strap. On balance, owners rate the AVI-8 Spitfire Smith Automatic highly for its detailed finishing and pristine condition.

The Marathon Arctic Steel Navigator is praised for its pragmatic, no-nonsense design and comfortable wearability due to its thinner, ergonomic steel case. Owners and reviewers highlight its highly accurate ETA F06.412 quartz movement, which offers exceptional timekeeping and a seven-year battery life with a field-serviceable battery port. One owner reported their Arctic Steel Navigator's pip fell out shortly after unboxing, and the bezel later became gritty and hard to turn, though another owner found success cleaning their gritty bezel with soap and water. A reviewer noted a preference for a different strap design for a cleaner tail tuck. On balance, owners and reviewers rate the Marathon Arctic Steel Navigator highly for its pragmatic design and accurate, reliable quartz movement.