Phoibos NarwhalvsWolbrook Skindiver Automatic

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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.

Phoibos Narwhal at true scale

Narwhal

Wolbrook Skindiver Automatic at true scale

Skindiver Automatic

Diameter

38mm

38mm

Lug-to-Lug

46mm

n/a

Thickness

11.5mm

lowest

12mm

Water Resistance

200m

200m

MSRP

$509

lowest

$549

Movement

Miyota 9015

Miyota 9039

Case

3 specs
Thickness
11.5mm
12mm
Lug-to-Lug
46mm
n/a
Material
Stainless Steel
Titanium

Crystal & Dial

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

Movement

1 specs
Caliber
Miyota 9015
Miyota 9039

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$509
$549
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Reviews

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

Phoibos Narwhal

The Phoibos Narwhal is praised for its captivating aventurine and Howlite dials, and its 38mm case is noted to wear well on smaller wrists, with one owner comparing its profile to a vintage Zenith El Primero. Some owners appreciate the brand's quality for the price, with one describing the case shape as resembling an integrated bracelet. However, criticisms include misaligned markers and a tilted date window, with one owner finding the hands to be too thick. The watch is considered by some to be overpriced at $480, with a slabby design and difficult-to-size bracelet links. Opinions are split on the 38mm size, with some finding it wears larger than expected, and the brand's logo is polarizing. Overall, owners rate the Phoibos Narwhal highly for its unique dial options and distinctive case design at its price point, despite some concerns regarding finishing consistency.

From video reviewers

The unique stone dial is a significant strength. The bracelet's refinement is a weakness. Reviewers disagree on the dial's appeal, with one highlighting its sunburst effect and applied indices, while another focuses on the natural stone variation.

Wolbrook Skindiver Automatic

Owners widely praise the Wolbrook Skindiver Automatic 38mm for its vintage-inspired design, compact 38mm size, and tool-like aesthetic, offering good value for its price. The watch features ridiculously bright and long-lasting lume, a clean dial, and a Miyota 9039 no-date movement. Some owners find the push-pull crown a drawback, while others note the clasp and some bracelet links can feel sharp. Opinions are split on the bracelet design, with some finding it confusing and others praising its articulation and micro-adjustments. One owner found the 40mm case felt larger than expected. Overall, owners rate the Wolbrook Skindiver Automatic 38mm highly for its vintage aesthetic and tool-watch appeal at a reasonable price.

From video reviewers

The Wolbrook Skindiver Automatic is praised for its authentic skin-diver interpretation and compact, vintage-inspired design. Reviewers noted the world timer bezel as a notable complication for its price point. One reviewer expressed significant dissatisfaction with an unspecified aspect of the watch.