AVI-8 is back with another variant on its popular Hawker Hurricane series. We take a look at the AVI-8 Hawker Hurricane Kent.
AVI-8 Hawker Hurricane Kent Review
Presentation of the Kent is to AVI-8’s usual high standard. A simple but strong branded cardboard box that makes the watch feel that bit more special than the usual watches you can pick up for the price.
At a glance |
AVI-8 Hawker Hurricane Kent |
Price |
£235 |
Case size |
43mm |
Thickness |
12.5mm |
Water Resistance |
50m |
Movement |
Miyota 8 Series |
Case and Movement
The unnamed movement – I presume a Miyota 8-series – is unremarkable but accurate enough. I have had problems with the movement struggling to get the second hand round the dial with a previous model from AVI-8 but they’ve moved the decorative aeroplane to the other end of the second hand and I am pleased to report no such problems with the AVI-8 Hawker Hurricane Kent. It’s unfair to criticise a low-cost movement in a low-cost watch but I still would prefer a Seiko NH35 which doesn’t have the same problems with stuttering.
The watch case is 43.5mm but it wears bigger thanks to that Flieger dial and the absence of a bezel. It wraps around my 7.5″ wrist nicely and was a pleasure to wear. I’d be concerned if my wrist was smaller – the long (50mm) lug to lug measurement placed it right at the limit of wearability for me. The finishing is adequate for the price, and the crown operates smoothly. The sapphire crystal is a welcome addition and anti-reflective coating keeps everything legible even in direct sunlight.
Dial and Hands
The dial is always the star of the show when it comes to AVI-8 watches and the AVI-8 Hawker Hurricane Kent’s is no exemption: it has multiple layers and applied indices with lashings of lume. It’s far better than anything else I’ve reviewed in this price range and looks absolutely brilliant.
The hands are chunky and easy to read, and all of the text is crisply finished. The date window at 6 O’clock is unobtrusive and I enjoyed the yellow background which matches the second hand.
Strap and Buckle
AVI-8 has a knack for making quality straps. The AVI-8 Hawker Hurricane Kent is fitted with a thick, supple leather strap that, again, is better than I’d expect for the money. I would be happy if I’d paid £30+ for it – and on a £235 watch, I cannot complain. It is better than most supplied straps of watches three times the price of the Kent.
The buckle is nicely stamped with the AVI-8 logo and there are plenty of holes to find the perfect fit. I particularly liked the stitching on the strap which gives it that traditional hand-made feel. My only minor criticism is that there is some movement at the watch end – some thicker spring bars would likely fix that.
AVI-8 Hawker Hurricane Kent – Video Review
What I Liked |
What I Didn’t like |
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AVI-8 Hawker Hurricane Kent – The WRUK Verdict
Overall, I really like the AVI-8 Hawker Hurricane Kent. Any minor misgivings are more than made up for by the low price, especially if you take advantage of the WRUK discount code.
Buy an AVI-8 Hawker Hurricane
You can buy this watch from AVI-8 Watches – Use our link and AVI-8 discount code MICHAELRICHMOND20 for 20% off stocked non-discounted lines.
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