Side by side

AVI-8 Spitfire Type 300 AutomaticvsPraesidus Service Watch

The numbers, the dial colors, the calibers — laid out so you can stop flipping between tabs.

What people say

Owners + reviewers, side by side

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

AVI-8 Spitfire Type 300 Automatic

Owners 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 $450 price point is considered good value, and the watch features a comfortable brown leather strap. However, the included NATO strap feels cheap and is too long for a 7" wrist. One owner reported inaccurate seconds hand movement, and the 15mm thick bronze case is noted as slightly thicker than expected. Overall, owners rate the AVI-8 Spitfire Type 300 Automatic highly for its unique designs and value at the price point, despite some minor strap and case thickness observations.

Praesidus Service Watch

Owners widely praise the Praesidus Service Watch for its 38mm size and solid build quality, with the domed crystal providing vintage distortion and the unbranded dial appealing to history enthusiasts. However, owners report jumpy hand sensitivity when setting the time. One owner experienced a scratchy crown and a noisy rotor on their DD-45, which persisted after warranty service and eventually led to the crown locking mid-way. Concerns about slow customer service and a negative reputation for Praesidus's support are also noted by owners. On balance, owners appreciate the vintage aesthetic and wearability of the Praesidus Service Watch, though persistent customer service issues temper enthusiasm.

From video reviewers

The 38mm case size is a strength for those preferring smaller watches. The dial may show slight discoloration or unevenness in finish.

At a glance

6 of 29 specs differ
Diameter
Spitfire Type 300 Automatic42mm
Service Watch42mm
Power Reserve
Spitfire Type 300 Automatic
Service Watch
Water Resistance
Spitfire Type 300 Automatic50m
Service Watch100m
MSRP
Spitfire Type 300 Automatic$400
Service Watch$259

Full specifications

Case

3 specs
Category
Pilot
Field
Lug Width
20mm
Water Resistance
50m
100m

Crystal & Dial

1 specs
Dial Color
Sky Gauge
Green

Movement

1 specs
Caliber
Seiko NH35

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$400
$259
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