AVI-8 CVRT Automatic Review: One of the Best Sub-€400 Automatics of 2025

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When AVI-8 unveiled the CVRT 3775A Automatic, it immediately caught my attention. Developed with input from Worn & Wound, the CVRT Automatic benefits from a design approach that prioritizes real-world wearability without sacrificing its tool-watch identity. I covered the launch in detail in my release article, focusing on the design intent, specifications, and positioning, so if you want the full technical breakdown, I’d recommend starting there.

This review exists for a different reason. After spending real time with the watch on my wrist, thanks to AVI-8 for providing a review unit, I wanted to answer a simpler, more important question: how does the CVRT Automatic actually feel to live with? Specs are one thing; daily wear is another. And as it turns out, this compact tool watch didn’t just meet expectations—it exceeded them. While the watch was provided for free, all opinions expressed are my own.

First Impressions: Better in the Metal

The first moment I handled the CVRT Automatic confirmed something I already suspected: this watch looks even better in person than it does in photos. I remember falling in love with it when it was first released, but seeing it in the metal took that feeling up a notch.

The case finishing feels precise and confident, and there’s an immediate sense that this is a well-thought-out product rather than a rushed release.

Compared to other watches I’ve reviewed in this price segment, the build quality feels genuinely premium. Nothing rattles, nothing feels sharp or unfinished, and the overall presentation gives off the impression of a watch that belongs in a higher bracket than its sub-€400 asking price.

With a 37.75mm case diameter, the CVRT Automatic might sound small on paper, but context matters. My wrist measures 6.5 inches, and on it, the watch feels absolutely perfect. The proportions are spot-on, offering a compact footprint without ever feeling toy-like.

Interestingly, the longer lugs play an important role here. They help visually balance the watch, giving it more presence on the wrist than the diameter alone would suggest. Because of this, I believe it can still work on slightly larger wrists, even if those with very large wrists may find it on the smaller side.

Comfort-wise, it’s excellent. After wearing it for a full day, I experienced no sliding, no pressure points, and no discomfort at all. This is the kind of watch you forget you’re wearing, in the best possible way. This is thanks to the very comfortable rubber strap it comes with (there is also a NATO strap, which we’ll talk about later). The rubber strap features a quick-release system that, while appreciated, can be a bit challenging to operate.

Dial Execution & Legibility: Minimalism Done Right

The black dial is the only variant available, and honestly, it doesn’t need another. The design strikes a near-perfect balance between minimalism and detail. At a glance, it’s incredibly legible, helped in no small part by a very effective anti-reflective coating on the crystal. You can immediately tell that proper attention was paid here, reflections are minimal, and the dial remains readable in almost any lighting condition.

What really stands out is the level of detailing. From the crisp printing to the chapter ring, even the smallest elements feel deliberate. It’s not a sterile or boring dial; instead, it rewards closer inspection while remaining functional and clean during everyday use.

At first glance, I thought the hour markers were fully lumed blocks. In reality, only the tops are lumed, with the rest rendered in clean white. That initial surprise quickly turned into appreciation, because the lume performance itself is very good.

Movement Performance: Miyota 9015 at Its Best

Inside the CVRT Automatic beats the Miyota 9015, and in real-world use, it has been nothing short of impressive. Over my time with the watch, it has averaged +3 to +4 seconds per day, which is outstanding performance, especially at this price point.

The case detailing is another area where the CVRT Automatic really stands out. It features a well-executed mix of sandblasted and brushed hard-coated stainless steel, which gives the watch a distinctly tool-oriented character without feeling rough or unfinished.

Adding a touch of refinement, polished chamfers run along the case and subtly catch the light. What I find particularly cool is that these polished accents are echoed on the buckle as well, creating a sense of visual continuity that you don’t often see at this price point.

The crown deserves a brief mention as well. It’s a push crown rather than a screw-down one, which makes winding and setting the time incredibly easy and pleasant in daily use. Despite that, it never feels like a compromise, as the watch still offers a reassuring 100 meters of water resistance.

Straps & Everyday Versatility

The included rubber strap deserves special mention. It’s extremely comfortable, soft on the wrist, and it doesn’t cause any sweating, even during extended wear. That alone makes it an excellent everyday option.

That said, I’ve personally grown fond of NATO straps lately, and I find myself gravitating toward the nylon option. It’s very comfortable once broken in, though it does feel a bit stiff at first. Nothing serious, and certainly nothing that detracts from the overall experience.

Thanks to its proportions and neutral design, the CVRT Automatic works well as a daily wearer. It’s sporty without being aggressive and understated without being dull.

Pricing, Availability & Where to Get One

The AVI-8 CVRT 3775A Automatic is priced at €390, and it’s genuinely hard to think of many watches that offer this level of quality, accuracy, and wearability.

Verdict

The AVI-8 CVRT Automatic didn’t just live up to my expectations, it reinforced them. It’s a thoughtfully designed, beautifully executed, and highly wearable watch that punches well above its price point. If you’re looking for a compact automatic that you can genuinely wear every day, this is one you shouldn’t overlook.

For me, it stands as one of the best sub-€400 automatics you can buy right now, and a clear reminder that great watches don’t have to be expensive.