Aquastar Benthos 500 IIvsJack Mason Pursuit Pro

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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 at true scale

Benthos 500 II

Jack Mason Pursuit Pro at true scale

Pursuit Pro

Diameter

42mm

40mm

Lug-to-Lug

47mm

47mm

Thickness

15.4mm

12.5mm

lowest

Water Resistance

200m

200m

Power Reserve

60h

68h

highest

MSRP

$3,590

$1,399

lowest

Movement

Aquastar 1MPS

La Joux-Perret G101

Case

4 specs
Diameter
42mm
40mm
Thickness
15.4mm
12.5mm
Lug Width
22mm
20mm
Material
Stainless Steel
316L Stainless Steel

Crystal & Dial

2 specs
Dial Color
Black
n/a
Lume
Super-LumiNova
None

Movement

2 specs
Caliber
Aquastar 1MPS
La Joux-Perret G101
Power Reserve
60h
68h

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$3,590
$1,399
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Reviews

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

Aquastar Benthos 500 II

The Aquastar Benthos 500 II is widely praised for its wearability, with reviewers and owners noting its comfortable 42mm case and improved ergonomics over the original, making it easy to wear even on smaller wrists. Its unique monopusher chronograph function, operated by a 2 o'clock pusher, is highlighted as exceptionally useful for everyday timing and racing. The watch features a bespoke automatic Aquastar 1MPS movement and is noted for its quality finishing and attractive price for its heritage and unique complications. However, some sources point out that the "500" in the name is misleading given its 200m water resistance, and the stamped clasp on the beads-of-rice bracelet is considered a drawback at its price point. One owner also noted the difficulty in sourcing replacement parts for older models. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the Aquastar Benthos 500 II highly for its blend of vintage charm, modern wearability, and unique monopusher chronograph functionality.

From video reviewers

The custom caliber movement is a significant strength. Reviewers did not reach a consensus on any weaknesses.

Jack Mason Pursuit Pro

Owners widely praise the Jack Mason Pursuit Pro's robust build quality and value, with reviewers highlighting its scratch-resistant case, grippy 120-click ceramic bezel, and excellent nighttime legibility from its Lumicast lume. The watch features a La Joux-Perret G101 automatic movement regulated in-house to ±5 seconds per day. Some owners suggest other brands for perceived reliability, and one notes the lume is not as strong as a specific Seiko model. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the Jack Mason Pursuit Pro highly for its capable tool watch design and strong value proposition.

From video reviewers

The La Joux-Perret G101 movement with a 68-hour power reserve is a shared strength. Reviewers were split on the lume performance, with some finding it exceptionally bright and others describing it as underwhelming.