Certina DS Action Diver ChronovsPhoibos Leviathan

lug2lug doesn't sell watches. Buy links open the brand's or seller's own site. Some links are affiliate links: lug2lug may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Disclosures

Measurements

Catalog photos are all shot at the same flattering size. These aren't: every case below shares one millimeter scale.

Certina DS Action Diver Chrono at true scale

DS Action Diver Chrono

Phoibos Leviathan at true scale

Leviathan

Diameter

44.6mm

45mm

Lug-to-Lug

52.6mm

lowest

54mm

Thickness

16.2mm

15.5mm

lowest

Water Resistance

300m

500m

highest

MSRP

$2,219

$309

lowest

Movement

Tissot Valjoux A05.231

Seiko NH35

Case

5 specs
Diameter
44.6mm
45mm
Thickness
16.17mm
15.5mm
Lug-to-Lug
52.58mm
54mm
Lug Width
21mm
22mm
Water Resistance
300m
500m

Crystal & Dial

3 specs
AR Coating
n/a
Yes
Dial Color
n/a
Blue
Lume
None
Super-LumiNova

Movement

1 specs
Caliber
Tissot Valjoux A05.231
Seiko NH35

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$2,219
$309
Keep your wishlist and collection together in the appExplore the app

Reviews

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

Certina DS Action Diver Chrono

Owners widely praise the Certina DS Action Diver Chrono for its excellent value and high-end feel, with many considering it one of the best Swiss or Japanese divers under $2000. Reviewers and owners alike highlight its robust build, attractive design, and well-finished case, with some preferring the contrast of the steel version for readability. One owner notes the chronograph totaliser lacks lume, and another finds the 21mm lug width inconvenient for strap changes. The Certina DS Action Diver Chrono is powered by the Tissot Valjoux A05.231 automatic movement and has a 68-hour power reserve, though one owner mentions a low reserve requiring daily winding if not worn extensively. Overall, owners rate the Certina DS Action Diver Chrono highly for its exceptional quality and value at its price point.

Phoibos Leviathan

The Phoibos Leviathan is noted for its sturdy, well-made construction and vintage aesthetic, offering a conservative design at an affordable price. Owners report the 45mm case feels heavy and thick at 15.5mm, with one owner replacing the stock band. The watch features a grey dial and blue lume. Overall, owners find the Phoibos Leviathan to be a well-built, vintage-inspired watch at an accessible price point.

From video reviewers

The watch features 500m water resistance and a Seiko NH35 automatic movement. The case size is a point of contention, with reviewers noting it is substantial and may overwhelm smaller wrists, while others highlight a 40mm case size as an improvement.

Similar watches

Matched to the watches above on size, movement, style and price, microbrands first. Open any one to dig in.

DiscussionNot started

Also compared

Comparisons nearby in the catalog: alternatives to the watches above paired against the matchup.