Aquastar Benthos 500 IIvsMarathon GSAR (Government Search & Rescue) Diver's Automatic

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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

Marathon GSAR (Government Search & Rescue) Diver's Automatic at true scale

GSAR (Government Search & Rescue) Diver's Automatic

Diameter

42mm

41mm

Lug-to-Lug

47mm

lowest

48mm

Thickness

15.4mm

14mm

lowest

Water Resistance

200m

300m

highest

Power Reserve

60h

n/a

MSRP

$3,590

$2,500

lowest

Movement

Aquastar 1MPS

Sellita SW200-1

Case

6 specs
Diameter
42mm
41mm
Thickness
15.4mm
14mm
Lug-to-Lug
47mm
48mm
Lug Width
22mm
20mm
Material
Stainless Steel
316L Stainless Steel
Water Resistance
200m
300m

Crystal & Dial

2 specs
Dial Color
Black
Anthracite
Lume
Super-LumiNova
None

Movement

2 specs
Caliber
Aquastar 1MPS
Sellita SW200-1
Power Reserve
60h
0h

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$3,590
$2,500
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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.

Marathon GSAR (Government Search & Rescue) Diver's Automatic

The Marathon GSAR (Government Search & Rescue) Diver's Automatic is widely praised as a versatile and well-made tool watch, with reviewers highlighting its legibility, utilitarian build, and comfort. Owners appreciate the tritium gas tubes for exceptional illumination in darkness, a feature noted as superior to some alternatives. The 41mm case size is considered ideal by some, though one owner found it wore tall and bumped on objects. While the watch is generally seen as a solid value for a Swiss-made tool watch, some owners have reported quality control issues requiring warranty service. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the Marathon GSAR (Government Search & Rescue) Diver's Automatic highly for its robust build and constant legibility from tritium.

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