Henry Archer NordlysvsPhoibos Kraken

lug2lug doesn't sell watches. Buy links open the brand's or seller's own site. Some links are affiliate links: lug2lug may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Disclosures

Measurements

Catalog photos are all shot at the same flattering size. These aren't: every case below shares one millimeter scale.

Henry Archer Nordlys at true scale

Nordlys

Phoibos Kraken at true scale

Kraken

Diameter

42mm

40mm

Lug-to-Lug

n/a

47.5mm

Thickness

11mm

lowest

11.5mm

Water Resistance

200m

200m

MSRP

$430

lowest

$499

Movement

Miyota 9015

Miyota 9015

Case

4 specs
Diameter
42mm
40mm
Thickness
11mm
11.5mm
Lug-to-Lug
n/a
47.5mm
Material
316L Stainless Steel
Stainless Steel

Crystal & Dial

4 specs
Crystal
Domed Sapphire
Sapphire
AR Coating
n/a
Yes
Dial Color
Blue
Green
Lume
None
Super-LumiNova

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$430
$499
Keep your wishlist and collection together in the appExplore the app

Reviews

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

Henry Archer Nordlys

Owners widely praise the Henry Archer Nordlys for its superb finishing, striking dial colors, and excellent value, with many noting its visual appeal rivals more expensive watches. The Miyota 9015 movement is appreciated for its high beat and reliability, and the solid build quality, sapphire crystal, and bright lume are consistently highlighted. Some owners find the bracelet clasp requires excessive force to open, and a few consider the designs generic or are hesitant about current pricing. One owner noted the bezel's knurling is slippery, and another mentioned the Miyota 9039 movement's rotor is audibly noticeable. Overall, owners rate the Henry Archer Nordlys highly for its exceptional finishing and striking dials at the price point.

Phoibos Kraken

Owners widely praise the Phoibos Kraken for its excellent lume, gorgeous dial, and crisp bezel clicks, with many finding the 40mm case size ideal. The Miyota 9015 movement is noted as superior, and the case and bracelet finishing are described as improved, contributing to a solid feel at a sub-$500 price point. Some owners find the crown guard execution awkward and the hands resemble "veiny penises," while one user wishes the kraken logo was raised. The dial's appearance in natural light is a concern for one owner, who feared it might not be as color-shifting as advertised. Overall, owners rate the Phoibos Kraken highly for its impressive lume, dial quality, and value.

From video reviewers

The watch's attractive price point and retro styling are consistently praised. Reviewers did not agree on any specific weaknesses.

Similar watches

Matched to the watches above on size, movement, style and price, microbrands first. Open any one to dig in.

DiscussionNot started

Also compared

Comparisons nearby in the catalog: alternatives to the watches above paired against the matchup.