Side by side

Citizen NighthawkvsVaer D5 Tropic Auto

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

Nighthawk
CitizenNighthawk
MSRP $431
D5 Tropic Auto
VaerD5 Tropic Auto
MSRP $699
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 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.

At a glance

9 of 29 specs differ
Diameter
Nighthawk42mm
D5 Tropic Auto39mm
Power Reserve
Nighthawk40h
D5 Tropic Auto40h
Water Resistance
Nighthawk200m
D5 Tropic Auto200m
MSRP
Nighthawk$431
D5 Tropic Auto$699

Full specifications

Case

5 specs
Category
Pilot
Diver
Diameter
42mm
39mm
Thickness
12mm
12.5mm
Lug Width
26mm
20mm
Material
Stainless Steel
316L Stainless Steel

Crystal & Dial

1 specs
Crystal
Mineral
Sapphire

Movement

2 specs
Caliber
B612
Miyota 9015
Type
Solar
Automatic

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$431
$699
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