Certina DS Super PH500MvsSquale 1521

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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.

DS Super PH500M

1521
Diameter
43mm
42mm
Lug-to-Lug
48.2mm
n/a
Thickness
14.9mm
12.5mm
lowest
Water Resistance
500m
500m
Power Reserve
80h
highest
38h
MSRP
$1,107
lowest
$1,265
Movement
POWERMATIC 80.611
Sellita SW200-1
Case
4 specsMovement
2 specsPricing
1 specsReviews
Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.
Owners widely praise the Certina DS Super PH500M for its retro dive watch aesthetic, good legibility, and value, with many highlighting its striking orange dial and secure bezel lock. The Powermatic 80.611 movement is reported as consistent and accurate, with one owner noting +2/+3 seconds per day performance. The watch is considered tough and offers good specifications for its price. However, some find the 43mm case and 15mm thickness substantial, potentially wearing large on smaller wrists, and one reviewer notes the crystal retaining ring can be a scratch magnet. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the Certina DS Super PH500M highly for its vintage-inspired design and excellent value proposition.
Owners widely praise the Squale 1521 for its classic look and robust build, with specific mentions of its wearable 12.5mm thickness and refined case finishing. The 42mm case is noted by some to wear smaller, closer to 40mm, due to short lugs, feeling solid without being too large. However, opinions on the bracelet vary, with some finding it too flashy or stiff, and one owner reported moisture ingress after a shower due to a loose case back. The crown can be difficult to operate due to deep integration, and the 38-hour power reserve is considered old-school but reliable. Overall, owners rate the Squale 1521 highly for its classic design and wearability, despite some reservations about the bracelet and crown.
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