Laco Hamburg GMT DIN 8330vsFormex Reef GMT

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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.

Laco Hamburg GMT DIN 8330 at true scale

Hamburg GMT DIN 8330

Formex Reef GMT at true scale

Reef GMT

Diameter

43.5mm

42mm

Lug-to-Lug

n/a

47mm

Thickness

13.6mm

11.4mm

lowest

Water Resistance

n/a

300m

Power Reserve

50h

56h

highest

MSRP

$2,980

$2,235

lowest

Movement

Sellita SW330-2

Sellita SW330-2

Case

5 specs
Diameter
43.5mm
42mm
Thickness
13.6mm
11.4mm
Lug-to-Lug
n/a
47mm
Lug Width
n/a
22mm
Water Resistance
n/a
300m

Crystal & Dial

2 specs
Dial Color
n/a
Black
Lume
None
Super-LumiNova

Movement

1 specs
Power Reserve
50h
56h

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$2,980
$2,235
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Reviews

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

Laco Hamburg GMT DIN 8330

Owners widely praise the Laco Hamburg GMT DIN 8330 for its excellent readability and handsome, instrument-like appearance, a direct result of its adherence to the DIN 8330 standard. The watch is considered very well made and a true pilot's watch by some, with its 43.5mm case wearing smaller than expected due to clever design. One owner finds it an ideal Go Anywhere, Do Anything watch. The Laco Hamburg GMT DIN 8330 is available for pre-sale at €2,390, though some wish it were priced under €2,000. One forum member notes that the use of green Loctite on strap screws makes changing straps difficult. On balance, owners and reviewers rate the Laco Hamburg GMT DIN 8330 highly for its robust build and clear, functional design, despite its price point.

Formex Reef GMT

Owners and reviewers widely praise the Formex Reef GMT for its impressive specifications and value, highlighting its unique porthole case shape and comfortable quick-release bracelet with on-the-fly micro-adjustment. The COSC-certified Sellita SW330-2 movement is noted for good finishing and reliable timekeeping, with a 56-hour power reserve. However, the watch's overall width and lug-to-lug span, particularly with male endlinks, are frequently cited as being too large for smaller wrists. Some reviewers also find the bezel action stiff and slippery, and the GMT model lacks a timing bezel option with lume. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the Formex Reef GMT highly for its robust construction and excellent specs at its price point.

From video reviewers

The watch features a COSC-certified SW330-2 GMT movement, which is visible through a sapphire crystal display case back and beautifully decorated. The watch's water-resistance of up to 300m/1000ft is a notable feature. The 42mm diameter may be too large for smaller wrists.

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