Baltic HMS 002 - Gold PVDvsSeiko 5 Sports SKX series

One owner reported poor quality with a plastic-like crystal, audible rattling, and significant timekeeping issues within 24 hours, deeming the Baltic HMS 002 - Gold PVD overpriced. Another commenter felt the design needed upgrades to its movement and crystal, noting a cheap feel to the dial's textured section. On balance, the consensus among the limited owner feedback is that the Baltic HMS 002 - Gold PVD has significant quality concerns for its price point.

The Seiko 5 Sports SKX series is widely praised for its value, robust build, and powerful lume, with owners appreciating its comfortable bracelets and improved movement featuring hacking and hand-winding. Some owners find the original SKX models heavy and bulky, while others praise their ruggedness and iconic dive watch design. Reviewers note the 38mm models offer great value at around €350 and are exemplary gateway watches, though their 100m water resistance without a screw-down crown makes them unsuitable for diving. The Seiko 5 Sports SKX series is seen as a decent watch, especially under £200, but lacks the tool watch capabilities of the original SKX, missing a screw-down crown, bezel pip, and ISO rating. On balance, owners and reviewers rate the Seiko 5 Sports SKX series well for its blend of value, improved movement, and tool-watch aesthetic, despite some missing dive certifications.