Phoibos ApollovsVaer 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.
Apollo
D5 Meridian Auto
Diameter
39mm
39mm
Lug-to-Lug
46mm
46mm
Thickness
11mm
lowest
12.5mm
Water Resistance
200m
200m
MSRP
$460
lowest
$729
Movement
Miyota 9015
Miyota 9015
Case
2 specsCrystal & Dial
3 specsPricing
1 specsReviews
Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.
Owners widely praise the Phoibos Apollo for its unique design, outstanding lume, and overall quality, with many appreciating its value. Some owners, however, find the "rocket" hand design hinders quick time-telling and note the bracelet's lack of tapering. One owner also flagged the price as high relative to competitors. Overall, owners rate the Phoibos Apollo highly for its distinctive aesthetics and impressive lume.
The vibrant blue dial is a standout feature. The original spring bars were too close to the titanium case, preventing strap changes, but Phoibos will now include curved spring bars.
Owners widely praise the Vaer D5 Meridian Auto for its classic aesthetic, comfortable 39mm size, 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, making it a great companion for desk diving with comfortable strap options and quick-release spring bars. One owner specifically noted satisfaction with the 42mm variant's premium steel bracelet featuring a tool-less micro-adjust clasp. On balance, owners and reviewers rate the Vaer D5 Meridian Auto highly for its classic design and comfortable wearability at its price point.
The D5 Meridian Auto is praised for its classic 39mm diver proportions and USA assembly. No shared weaknesses were identified.
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