Side by side

Formex Reef 42 mmvsVaer D5 Tropic Auto

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

Reef 42 mm
FormexReef 42 mm
MSRP $2,414
D5 Tropic Auto
VaerD5 Tropic Auto
MSRP $699

At a glance

10 of 29 specs differ
Diameter
Reef 42 mm42mm
D5 Tropic Auto39mm
Power Reserve
Reef 42 mm56h
D5 Tropic Auto40h
Water Resistance
Reef 42 mm300m
D5 Tropic Auto200m
MSRP
Reef 42 mm$2,414
D5 Tropic Auto$699

Full specifications

Case

6 specs
Diameter
42mm
39mm
Thickness
11.4mm
12.5mm
Lug-to-Lug
47mm
46mm
Lug Width
22mm
20mm
Material
Stainless Steel
316L Stainless Steel
Water Resistance
300m
200m

Crystal & Dial

1 specs
Lume
Super-LumiNova
None

Movement

2 specs
Caliber
Sellita SW300-1
Miyota 9015
Power Reserve
56h
40h

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$2,414
$699

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What people say

Owners + reviewers, side by side

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

Formex Reef 42 mm

The Formex Reef 42 mm is widely praised for its comfortable bracelet featuring a micro-adjust clasp, COSC-certified Sellita movement, and excellent build quality. Owners appreciate the gradient dial's visual appeal and the overall wearability. Some owners note the seconds hand does not perfectly align with markers, and one owner found the lugs' taper hinders third-party strap fit. The bracelet's length and sporty design are noted as limiting versatility by some. On balance, owners and reviewers rate the Formex Reef 42 mm highly for its impressive wearability and value at the price point.

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.

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