Aquastar Benthos 500 II Founder s EditionvsGeckota Phalanx

lug2lug doesn't sell watches. Buy links open the brand's or seller's own site. Some links are affiliate links: lug2lug may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Disclosures

Measurements

Catalog photos are all shot at the same flattering size. These aren't: every case below shares one millimeter scale.

Aquastar Benthos 500 II Founder s Edition at true scale

Benthos 500 II Founder s Edition

Geckota Phalanx at true scale

Phalanx

Diameter

42mm

42mm

Lug-to-Lug

47mm

n/a

Thickness

15.4mm

13.9mm

lowest

Water Resistance

200m

300m

highest

Power Reserve

60h

n/a

MSRP

$3,590

$349

lowest

Movement

Automatic

ETA 2824-2

Case

5 specs
Thickness
15.4mm
13.9mm
Lug-to-Lug
47mm
n/a
Lug Width
22mm
n/a
Material
Stainless Steel
316L Stainless Steel
Water Resistance
200m
300m

Crystal & Dial

1 specs
Dial Color
n/a
Green

Movement

2 specs
Caliber
n/a
ETA 2824-2
Power Reserve
60h
0h

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$3,590
$349
Keep your wishlist and collection together in the appExplore the app

Reviews

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

Aquastar Benthos 500 II Founder s Edition

The Aquastar Benthos 500 II Founder s Edition is widely praised for its faithful reissue of an iconic dive watch, featuring a new monopusher chronograph movement with a unique central 60-minute display and improved wearability due to a slimmer case and redesigned lugs. Owners and reviewers highlight the comfortable 42mm case, the functional yacht timer, and the ease of use of the central chronograph for everyday timing. Some owners note that the 200m water resistance is a compromise from the original's 500m, and one reviewer flags the stamped clasp as a drawback at its price. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the Aquastar Benthos 500 II Founder s Edition highly for its unique chronograph function and comfortable, modernized vintage design.

Geckota Phalanx

Owners widely report good fit and finish on the Geckota Phalanx, with quality straps and nice design details. Some owners debate the value proposition for the ETA 2824-2 movement at the original price, though quality is not a concern. One reviewer found the flat crystal and bezel, mismatched lume pip, and uninspiring lume quality detracted from its appeal. Overall, owners rate the Geckota Phalanx highly for its build quality and value, particularly when found on sale.

From video reviewers

The Phalanx pairs a proven ETA 2824-2 movement with robust military-grade durability, enduring rigorous stress testing and field conditions without compromise. Its matte finish and tactical aesthetic deliver premium perceived quality at a competitive price point for a 300m dive watch with Mil-Spec credentials.