Side by side

Citizen NighthawkvsVaer C5 Recon Field Solar

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

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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.

Citizen Nighthawk

Owners widely praise the Citizen Nighthawk for its value, intricate dial with applied indices and red accents, and strong wrist presence. The Eco-Drive B877 movement is noted for its accuracy, with one owner reporting zero deviation over five days, and its ability to track dual timezones with a GMT hand. The brushed case finish and solid, attractive bracelet are also frequently highlighted. However, the mineral crystal is a consistent drawback, with multiple sources noting its reflectivity and vulnerability to scratches, especially considering the watch's price point. Some owners find the dial difficult to read in low light, the internal bezel crown position awkward, and the watch heavy. Overall, owners rate the Citizen Nighthawk highly for its striking dial and accurate Eco-Drive movement, with the mineral crystal being the most frequently cited compromise.

From video reviewers

The solar-powered Eco-Drive chronograph movement is a functional highlight. Legibility in low light conditions is a drawback.

Vaer C5 Recon Field Solar

Owners widely praise the Vaer C5 Recon Field Solar for its robust build, bright C3 SuperLuminova lume, and solar charging capabilities, with one owner preferring its greater water resistance. Some owners report issues with hand alignment and second hand accuracy, though Vaer's customer service is noted for responsiveness with exchanges or refunds. One owner mentioned spring bar holes being close to the edge, a point of QC discussion. On balance, owners appreciate the Vaer C5 Recon Field Solar for its solar charging and robust build, despite occasional reports of minor alignment issues.

From video reviewers

The solar-powered quartz movement is a significant convenience. The bracelet quality is criticized for not matching the case finishing. Reviewers disagree on the watch's water resistance compared to competitors.

At a glance

11 of 29 specs differ
Diameter
Nighthawk42mm
C5 Recon Field Solar40mm
Power Reserve
Nighthawk
C5 Recon Field Solar
Water Resistance
Nighthawk200m
C5 Recon Field Solar100m
MSRP
Nighthawk$431
C5 Recon Field Solar$329

Full specifications

Case

7 specs
Category
Pilot
Field
Diameter
42mm
40mm
Thickness
0mm
10.4mm
Lug-to-Lug
0mm
48mm
Lug Width
26mm
20mm
Material
Stainless Steel
316L Stainless Steel
Water Resistance
200m
100m

Crystal & Dial

1 specs
Crystal
Mineral
Domed Sapphire

Movement

2 specs
Caliber
B612
Type
Solar
Quartz

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$431
$329
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