Side by side

Christopher Ward The C12 LocovsVaer D5 Tropic Auto

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

The C12 Loco
Christopher WardThe C12 Loco
MSRP $5,250
D5 Tropic Auto
VaerD5 Tropic Auto
MSRP $699

At a glance

15 of 29 specs differ
Diameter
The C12 Loco40mm
D5 Tropic Auto39mm
Power Reserve
The C12 Loco144h
D5 Tropic Auto40h
Water Resistance
The C12 Loco30m
D5 Tropic Auto200m
MSRP
The C12 Loco$5,250
D5 Tropic Auto$699

Full specifications

Case

7 specs
Category
Diver
Diameter
40mm
39mm
Thickness
13.7mm
12.5mm
Lug-to-Lug
47.5mm
46mm
Lug Width
25mm
20mm
Material
Stainless Steel
316L Stainless Steel
Water Resistance
30m
200m

Crystal & Dial

2 specs
Dial Color
Blue
Black
Lume
Super-LumiNova
None

Movement

5 specs
Caliber
CW-003
Miyota 9015
Type
Manual
Automatic
Beat Rate
4 vph
28,800 vph
Power Reserve
144h
40h
Jewels
29
25

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$5,250
$699

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What people say

Owners + reviewers, side by side

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

Christopher Ward The C12 Loco

Owners widely praise the Christopher Ward C12 Loco for its impressive technical ambition, well-finished movement aesthetics, and value, with many calling it a "hell of a lot of watch for the price" and noting its "insane" finishing. Specific praise is given to the dial-side floating free-sprung balance and the 144-hour power reserve from the SH21 movement. However, opinions are split on wearability, with some finding the 41mm diameter and 13.7mm thickness awkward, and the dial design is described by some as toy-like or bland, while others find it sophisticated. The manual-wind movement, 30m water resistance, and the 6 o'clock escapement are also points of discussion. Overall, owners rate the Christopher Ward C12 Loco highly for its technical innovation and perceived high-horology elements at a competitive price point.

Vaer D5 Tropic Auto

Owners widely praise the Vaer D5 Tropic Auto for its excellent value, vintage aesthetic, and comfortable 39mm size that wears larger. Specific highlights include the bezel's satisfying click action and subtle shine, beautifully finished lugs that pair well with a jubilee bracelet, and a dynamic black and cream dial with a unique date feature. The incorporation of brushed steel, quick-release spring bars for easy strap changes, and good timekeeping are also frequently mentioned positives. The Vaer D5 Tropic Auto is considered good value with excellent water resistance, making it a great daily wear, and its fit and finish are often compared favorably to brands like Hamilton and Tissot. On balance, owners rate the Vaer D5 Tropic Auto highly for its blend of vintage styling, practical features, and strong value proposition.

From video reviewers

The dial design is a standout feature. The Miyota automatic movement is also noted.

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