Henry Archer ArkonavsGrand Seiko SBGJ249

Owners widely praise the Henry Archer Arkona for its dial, overall build quality, and value, with one owner calling it a "thing of beauty" and another a "shockingly good value for the price." The lume is noted as killer, and the 40mm case wears smaller. However, some owners find the guilloche dial standard and similar to other brands, and one commenter feels the brand sticks too closely to a "bling Explorer" niche. One owner found the bracelet detracted from the dial, preferring a rubber strap, and another noted the bracelet tapers to 16mm, which felt narrower than preferred. On balance, owners rate the Henry Archer Arkona highly for its dial aesthetics and perceived value.

Grand Seiko SBGJ249 owners and reviewers widely praise its spectacular beauty, particularly the stunning wave dial that shifts color and exhibits an incredible texture. The watch is noted for its perfect proportions and "out of this world" finishing on the case, hands, and hour indices. It is powered by the Hi-Beat Caliber 9S86, a true GMT movement operating at 36,000vph. Accuracy is reported at -3 to +5 seconds per day, with one owner noting +3 seconds per day. The watch is offered at $6,800, which is considered outstanding value. A drawback flagged is its 3 bar water resistance. On balance, owners and reviewers rate the Grand Seiko SBGJ249 highly for its exceptional dial finishing and overall beauty at its price point.