Oak & Oscar The Humboldt ExP-02vsGrand Seiko SLGB005
The numbers, the dial colors, the calibers — laid out so you can stop flipping between tabs.
At a glance
16 of 29 specs differFull specifications
Case
7 specsCrystal & Dial
4 specsMovement
4 specsPricing
1 specsFollow this matchup
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Owners + reviewers, side by side
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Oak & Oscar The Humboldt ExP-02 is a 39.5mm stainless steel tool watch featuring a unique, layered aluminum "ghost dial" for legibility and 200m water resistance, powered by a Sellita SW300 movement. Its appeal is limited by a US$2,550 price and an extremely limited production of 20 pieces, with its experimental dial construction done in Chicago. Overall, reviewers highlight the endearing dial and in-house bezel production as key features of the Oak & Oscar Humboldt ExP-02.
The Grand Seiko SLGB005 is widely praised for its stunning "Ice Forest" smoked purple dial, inspired by frost-covered trees, and its compact 37mm Ever-Brilliant Steel case. It is powered by the 9RB2 Spring Drive caliber, noted for its exceptional accuracy of ±3 seconds per month or ±20 seconds per year, and offers a 72-hour power reserve. Reviewers consistently highlight the dial's mesmerizing beauty and the case's sculpted design as significant strengths. However, multiple sources express disappointment that the Grand Seiko SLGB005 omits the micro-adjustment clasp found on other models, especially considering its $11,100 price point, though one reviewer found this did not detract from wearability. Overall, reviewers rate the Grand Seiko SLGB005 highly for its visually arresting dial and precise Spring Drive movement, despite the clasp oversight.
The watch features a ±3 seconds per month accurate Ultra Fine Accuracy Calibre 9RB2 movement. The Ever-Brilliant Steel finish has polishing flaws that detract from the watch's appearance. Reviewers disagree on the movement's accuracy, with one reviewer citing ±3 seconds per month and another ±10 seconds per month.
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