Marathon OSAR-D (Original SAR with Date) Automatic 46mmvsSeiko 5 Sports SKX series

The Marathon OSAR-D (Original SAR with Date) Automatic 46mm is widely regarded as a rugged and legible timepiece, featuring a familiar geometric dial with MaraGlo lume and a white dial with applied hour markers that enhance legibility. Owners and reviewers note its 300-meter water resistance and the reliable Swiss-made Sellita SW200-1 automatic movement with improved shock protection. The watch is described as large, thick, and heavy, with some owners finding it comfortable on the wrist while others note its substantial presence, particularly at a table. Overall, owners and reviewers appreciate the Marathon OSAR-D (Original SAR with Date) Automatic 46mm for its rugged build and excellent legibility.

The Seiko 5 Sports SKX series is widely praised for its value, robust build, and powerful lume, with owners appreciating its comfortable bracelets and improved movement featuring hacking and hand-winding. Some owners find the original SKX models heavy and bulky, while others praise their ruggedness and iconic dive watch design. Reviewers note the 38mm models offer great value at around €350 and are exemplary gateway watches, though their 100m water resistance without a screw-down crown makes them unsuitable for diving. The Seiko 5 Sports SKX series is seen as a decent watch, especially under £200, but lacks the tool watch capabilities of the original SKX, missing a screw-down crown, bezel pip, and ISO rating. On balance, owners and reviewers rate the Seiko 5 Sports SKX series well for its blend of value, improved movement, and tool-watch aesthetic, despite some missing dive certifications.