Citizen GarrisonvsSeiko 5 Sports SKX series

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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.

Citizen Garrison at true scale

Garrison

Seiko 5 Sports SKX series at true scale

5 Sports SKX series

Diameter

43mm

38mm

Lug-to-Lug

n/a

44.2mm

Thickness

n/a

12.1mm

Water Resistance

100m

100m

Power Reserve

n/a

41h

MSRP

$244

lowest

$350

Movement

Citizen J800

Seiko 4R36

Case

5 specs
Category
Field
Diver
Diameter
43mm
38mm
Thickness
n/a
12.1mm
Lug-to-Lug
n/a
44.2mm
Lug Width
22mm
20mm

Crystal & Dial

3 specs
Crystal
Mineral
Hardlex
Dial Color
Black
n/a
Lume
None
LumiBrite on hands and index(es)

Movement

4 specs
Caliber
Citizen J800
Seiko 4R36
Type
Solar
Automatic
Power Reserve
0h
41h
Jewels
0
24

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$244
$350
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Reviews

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

Citizen Garrison

Owners widely praise the Citizen Garrison for its excellent legibility, comfortable wear, and impressive value, with many highlighting its solar-powered Eco-Drive movement and durable titanium case as key strengths. Reviewers and owners alike commend its clean dial design and good lume, making it a versatile tool watch for everyday use. Some owners note the original strap or bracelet could be improved, and there is a split opinion on the marker styling, with a few wishing for a smaller case size. Overall, owners rate the Citizen Garrison highly for its robust build and solar functionality at an accessible price point.

Seiko 5 Sports SKX series

The Seiko 5 Sports SKX series is widely praised as an excellent value gateway watch, with owners and reviewers highlighting its solid build and powerful lume. The 22mm bracelet is noted for its comfort, and the watch offers numerous style options. Some owners find the original SKX models heavy and bulky, while others appreciate their ruggedness and iconic dive watch design. The Seiko 5 Sports SKX series offers an upgraded movement with hacking and hand-winding, and standard spring bars for easier strap changes. However, it lacks the screw-down crown and ISO certification of the original SKX, leading some to consider it less of a tool watch. On balance, owners and reviewers rate the Seiko 5 Sports SKX series highly for its value and modern features, despite some preferring the tool watch capabilities of its predecessor.