I know you want to know about the Argos Apollo 2 Automatic Watch, you have likely found a stylish timepiece that promises luxury on a budget. However, before you buy, there is one critical fact you must know: this watch is not automatic. Despite the common search term, the Argos Apollo II runs on a manual-wind Swiss movement, meaning you must wind it by hand every day. This review clears up the confusion, verifies the official specs, and reveals the hidden pros and cons of this unique watch. Whether you are a beginner or a collector, understanding the manual winding ritual and the discontinued status of this model is essential to making the right choice.
Executive Summary: Key Findings at a Glance
The Argos Apollo II is a budget-friendly mechanical watch that offers a rare Swiss FHF ST-96 manual movement for under $150. While often mislabeled as the “Argos Apollo 2 Automatic Watch,” it requires daily hand-winding and offers a 24–30 hour power reserve. Key highlights include a 40mm stainless steel case, a vintage-style domed hesalite crystal, and a lifetime warranty on the movement. However, buyers should note that the model is officially discontinued, has limited water resistance, and features a bracelet that may require a break-in period.
The Big Misconception: Is It Really Automatic?
Let’s clear the air immediately: the Argos Apollo 2 Automatic Watch is a misnomer. According to the official Argos website and verified user reviews, the Apollo II is powered by a Swiss FHF ST-96 manual movement, not an automatic one.
This means the watch does not wind itself from your wrist motion. Instead, you must turn the crown by hand daily to keep it running. Some users describe the winding as “fidgety” due to the small crown size, while others find it smooth. If you expect a self-winding watch, this model will disappoint. However, manual watches offer a unique connection to the mechanism, as you physically power the watch yourself. The movement is a refurbished Swiss caliber, offering “adequate” performance with a vintage charm rarely found at this price point.
Design and Build Quality: A Closer Look
The Argos Apollo II is celebrated for its classic, vintage-inspired design that mimics high-end watches from the mid-20th century.
Case Dimensions and Wearability
The watch features a 40mm case diameter, a versatile size that fits most wrists comfortably. The lug-to-lug distance is 44mm, ensuring it slides easily under shirt cuffs for office wear. There is some variation in reported thickness, with sources citing either 7mm or 10.1mm; even at the thicker measurement, it remains a slim profile. The case is constructed from 304L stainless steel, known for its durability and resistance to rust.
The Dial and Crystal
A standout feature is the high-domed hesalite crystal (acrylic glass), which provides a warm, retro aesthetic unlike modern sapphire. This dome magnifies the dial, creating depth. The watch is available in striking dial colors like Cadmium Yellow, Olive Green, Constellation Blue, Emerald Green, and Wine Red. Users note that while the dial may appear less shiny indoors, it looks vibrant and glossy in direct sunlight. The markers are applied, and the hands typically follow a classic “Dauphine” style.
Crown and Case Back
The watch utilizes a pushdown crown, which simplifies the design but limits water resistance. The case back is transparent, allowing a view of the Swiss movement inside, often finished in a gold tone. One minor drawback is the unsigned crown, which lacks the brand logo, a detail some enthusiasts miss.
Bracelet and Strap Options
The Argos Apollo II offers versatility with different strap configurations, though quality varies by type.
The Stainless Steel Bracelet
Many variants come with a five-row solid link stainless steel bracelet, often styled like a “jubilee” band. It features a butterfly clasp for secure and easy wear. While the 304L steel matches the case quality, user feedback is mixed. Some find it comfortable, but others report the links are stiff out of the box and exhibit a “floating fit” until broken in. There are also isolated reports of chrome plating peeling over time, suggesting potential long-term durability concerns for the finish.
Leather Strap Variants
For those preferring comfort, leather strap options are available in 20mm widths, typically in black or brown to match the dial. Leather straps are generally softer and more comfortable immediately upon wearing. The availability of both metal and leather options across different dial colors allows buyers to choose the style that best fits their wardrobe.
Movement and Performance: What to Expect
The heart of the Argos Apollo II is the Swiss FHF ST-96 manual movement, a refurbished vintage caliber that defines the watch’s character.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Movement Type | Swiss FHF ST-96 Manual Wind |
| Power Reserve | 24 – 30 Hours |
| Jewels | 17 Jewels |
| Beat Rate | 18,000 bph (vintage sweep) |
| Winding | Hand-winding required daily |
- Power Reserve: With a reserve of roughly 24 to 30 hours, the watch will stop if not worn for two days. Daily winding is necessary.
- Accuracy: The seconds hand sweeps smoothly, characteristic of the slower 18,000 bph beat rate. While not a chronometer, it keeps “adequate” time for its price bracket.
- Winding Experience: The small crown can make winding feel delicate, but the action is generally reported as smooth once familiar.
- Visual Appeal: The exhibition case back showcases the movement, adding a layer of mechanical beauty often missing in quartz watches.
Remember, this is not an automatic movement. There is no rotor to wind the mainspring. If you stop wearing it, it stops ticking, requiring you to reset the time and wind it again.
Price and Value for Money
The Argos Apollo II is renowned for offering Swiss mechanical heritage at an entry-level price.
- Official Price Range: Historically listed between ₹9,893 and ₹11,999 INR (approx. $125 – $150 USD).
- Discounted Offers: Some listings have shown prices as low as $85 – $87 USD (approx. ₹7,199 INR), representing exceptional value.
- Market Context: Finding a Swiss movement watch under $150 is rare; most competitors in this range use Chinese or Japanese movements.
Even with the manual winding requirement, the combination of a Swiss caliber, stainless steel construction, and premium packaging makes it “worth every dime” for enthusiasts seeking a vintage aesthetic without the vintage price tag.
Warranty and After-Sales Support
Argos backs the Apollo II with a warranty structure that is generous for the budget segment.
- Lifetime Movement Warranty: The brand offers a lifetime warranty specifically on the movement. If the Swiss caliber fails due to manufacturing defects, they promise free repair or replacement for the life of the watch.
- One-Year General Warranty: Components like the case, crystal, and bracelet are covered for 1 year.
- Exclusions: The warranty does not cover water damage or accidental drops. Given the pushdown crown, water intrusion is a real risk if the watch is submerged.
- Return Policy: A 7-day return window was standard on the official site for online purchases.
This lifetime coverage on the movement significantly reduces the risk of ownership, signaling confidence in the refurbished calibers.
Important Limitations: Discontinued Status and Water Resistance
Potential buyers must be aware of two critical limitations before purchasing.
1. The Watch is Discontinued
According to the official Argos website, all Apollo II models are discontinued and will not be restocked. You can no longer buy them brand new directly from the manufacturer. Availability is now limited to third-party sellers, remaining stock on platforms like Amazon, or the secondary market. If you find one, it may be a rare opportunity.
2. Water Resistance Issues
The Apollo II is not suitable for swimming or heavy water exposure. The pushdown crown lacks the sealing of a screw-down crown, making it vulnerable to moisture. Users and reviewers explicitly warn against wearing it in the rain or while washing hands. Since water damage voids the warranty, this watch should be treated strictly as a dress piece for dry environments.
Hidden Features and User Tips
Beyond the spec sheet, user experiences reveal several “hidden” aspects of the Argos Apollo II.
- Sunlight Transformation: The sector dials, particularly in blue and green, are designed to catch light. They may look flat indoors but reveal intricate gloss and depth in direct sunlight.
- Premium Packaging: The watch often arrives in a high-gloss wooden box with a sliding holder, a presentation detail usually reserved for more expensive timepieces.
- Bracelet Break-In: The metal bracelet is notoriously stiff initially. Users recommend wearing it for a few weeks to allow the links to loosen and conform to the wrist shape.
- The Winding Ritual: Owners suggest establishing a morning routine to wind the watch. This daily interaction fosters a deeper appreciation for the mechanical nature of the timepiece.
- Customization: With a standard 20mm lug width, swapping straps is easy. You can easily fit aftermarket leather, NATO, or rubber straps to change the watch’s personality.
Comparison with Other Argos Models
If the manual winding of the Apollo II is a dealbreaker, you might consider the Argos Olympus series.
| Feature | Argos Apollo II | Argos Olympus II |
|---|---|---|
| Movement | Swiss FHF ST-96 (Manual) | Japanese Miyota (Automatic) |
| Winding | Hand-wind daily | Self-winding (wrist motion) |
| Crystal | Hesalite (Acrylic) | Sapphire (often) |
| Dial Style | Sector / Vintage | Open-Heart (visible balance) |
| Price | ~$125 – $150 | ~$175+ (₹13,990+) |
| Status | Discontinued | Active / Newer Models |
The Argos Olympus II features an automatic movement, so it winds itself, and often includes an “open-heart” dial to see the oscillating weight. It also tends to use sapphire crystal, which is more scratch-resistant than the Apollo’s hesalite. If you want convenience and modern durability, the Olympus is the better choice. If you prefer vintage charm and Swiss heritage at a lower price, the Apollo II remains unique.
Should You Buy?
The Argos Apollo 2 Automatic Watch (correctly the Apollo II Manual) is a compelling option for specific buyers, provided you accept its limitations.
Buy it if:
- You desire a Swiss mechanical movement at an unbeatable budget price.
- You love the vintage aesthetic of domed hesalite and sector dials.
- You enjoy the daily ritual of manual winding.
- You need a slim, elegant dress watch for formal or office settings.
- You value the security of a lifetime movement warranty.
Avoid it if:
- You strictly require an automatic watch that winds itself.
- You need water resistance for sports, swimming, or outdoor work.
- You prefer the durability of a screw-down crown.
- You are looking for a brand-new model currently in production (as it is discontinued).
In conclusion, the Argos Apollo II is a manual-wind masterpiece disguised by a confusing name. It delivers incredible value through its Swiss heritage, beautiful design, and robust warranty. Just remember to wind it daily, keep it dry, and cherish the mechanical tick on your wrist. If you can locate one before existing stock vanishes, it is a worthy addition to any watch collection.
