Astor + Banks Sea Ranger M2vsPhoibos Leviathan

The Astor + Banks Sea Ranger M2 is widely praised for its balanced design, excellent legibility, and strong GADA (go-anywhere, do-anything) capabilities, featuring 300m water resistance and a scratch-resistant coating. Reviewers note its comfortable 40mm case size and good lume, though one source describes it as good but not great. The movement is a Sellita SW200 adjusted by the brand, with accuracy reported around ±8 seconds per day. The pre-order price is $650, with a standard price of $850. On balance, reviewers find the Astor + Banks Sea Ranger M2 to be a compelling option due to its functional design and robust specifications.

Owners widely praise the Phoibos Leviathan for its excellent value, superb case finishing, and generous lume. The watch is described as visually striking, legible, and well-made, with a unique case design, sapphire crystal, and a comfortable FKM strap or excellent bracelet with a milled clasp and quick adjustments. Some owners note the bezel's staggered jimping can cause fingers to slip, and the beveled crystal can distort the view of indices. Accuracy varies, with one owner reporting losing 5-10 seconds per day without a winder, while others state it keeps accurate time out of the box. The watch is frequently described as heavy and thick, with some owners finding it too large for wrists smaller than 7.5 inches, although newer models feature an improved clasp for better comfort and functionality. Overall, owners rate the Phoibos Leviathan highly for its striking design and impressive finishing at an accessible price point.