Islander 38mm Automatic DivervsVaer D5 Meridian Auto

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Measurements

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

Islander 38mm Automatic Diver at true scale

38mm Automatic Diver

Vaer D5 Meridian Auto at true scale

D5 Meridian Auto

Diameter

38mm

39mm

Lug-to-Lug

44.5mm

lowest

46mm

Thickness

13mm

12.5mm

lowest

Water Resistance

200m

200m

MSRP

$329

lowest

$729

Movement

Seiko NH36

Miyota 9015

Case

5 specs
Diameter
38mm
39mm
Thickness
13mm
12.5mm
Lug-to-Lug
44.5mm
46mm
Material
Stainless Steel
316L Stainless Steel
Caseback
Engraved screw-in back
n/a

Crystal & Dial

3 specs
Crystal Shape
Flat
n/a
AR Coating
Yes
n/a
Dial Color
n/a
Black

Movement

1 specs
Caliber
Seiko NH36
Miyota 9015

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$329
$729
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Reviews

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

Islander 38mm Automatic Diver

Owners widely praise the Islander 38mm Automatic Dive Watch #ISL-05 for its solid link bracelets, which are considered higher quality than those on similarly priced alternatives. Reviewers and owners alike highlight the use of reliable Seiko movements and sapphire crystals. The watch is noted for its applied indices and ceramic bezel. On balance, owners rate the Islander 38mm Automatic Dive Watch #ISL-05 highly for its robust build and upgraded features at its price point.

Vaer D5 Meridian Auto

Owners widely praise the Vaer D5 Meridian Auto for its classic aesthetic, comfortable 39mm wearability, and well-executed 120-click bezel with minimal back play. Reviewers highlight the anodized aluminum bezel insert, lyre lugs, sword hands, and gold accents on the blue sunburst dial as contributing to its old-school charm. One owner notes the watch keeps good time, running 3-5 seconds fast per month. On balance, owners and reviewers rate the Vaer D5 Meridian Auto highly for its vintage-inspired design and comfortable dimensions at its price point.

From video reviewers

The D5 Meridian Auto is praised for its classic 39mm diver proportions and USA assembly. No shared weaknesses were identified.