Awake Watches Son MàivsSeiko King Seiko KSK
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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.
Son Mài
King Seiko KSK
Diameter
39mm
38.6mm
Lug-to-Lug
45.6mm
lowest
45.8mm
Thickness
11.8mm
10.7mm
lowest
Water Resistance
50m
50m
Power Reserve
n/a
45h
MSRP
$2,299
lowest
$3,300
Movement
La Joux-Perret G101
Seiko 6L35
Case
5 specsCrystal & Dial
3 specsMovement
3 specsPricing
1 specsReviews
Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.
The Awake Watches Son Mài is praised for its step up in finishing and attention to detail, featuring impressive handcrafted dials with silver leaf gilding and lacquered colors, combined with excellent Super-LumiNova application. Its 39mm recycled steel case is comfortable and works well as a daily watch, though the dial design makes it wear larger. The dial features meticulous lacquer work and a hidden, hand-chiselled silhouette. The La Joux-Perret G101 automatic movement offers a 68-hour power reserve. Overall, reviewers highly regard the Awake Watches Son Mài for its impressive handcrafted dials and comfortable 39mm case.
The Son Mài's lacquer dial is consistently praised for its depth and intricate detail. Sharp lugs are cited as a drawback affecting comfort. Reviewers disagree on the value proposition compared to luxury brands.
The Seiko King Seiko KSK is praised for its slim, retro design with sharply faceted lugs and well-executed dials, featuring a mix of brushed and polished finishes. Owners and reviewers consistently highlight the Grand Seiko-level dial and case finishing, the double-bevel sapphire crystal, and an unusually nice bracelet. Accuracy figures vary, with one owner reporting +5 to +7 seconds per day and another noting +15/-10 seconds per day for the 6L35 movement. Some owners question the value proposition at its price point, particularly when considering the movement. Overall, owners and reviewers appreciate the King Seiko KSK for its refined retro aesthetic and high-quality finishing, despite some reservations about its price and movement in certain configurations.
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