Astor + Banks Sea Ranger M2vsBrew Retrograph

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.

The Brew Retrograph is widely praised for its unique 1970s "TV Dial" aesthetic, thin profile, and comfortable wearability, with owners appreciating its well-finished rectangular case featuring alternating polishing and brushing, and its sunburst dials with contrasting matte subdials. Reviewers and owners consistently highlight the Seiko VK64 meca-quartz movement for its solid performance, instantaneous chronograph reset with good tactile feel, and quartz accuracy, all at an affordable price point. Some owners note the lack of a running second hand and that the date change is not instant, while one owner found the strap needed improvement. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the Brew Retrograph highly for its distinctive design and excellent value, particularly praising its comfortable wearability and the satisfying meca-quartz chronograph function.