Marathon GSAR (Government Search & Rescue) Diver's AutomaticvsSquale 1521
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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.

GSAR (Government Search & Rescue) Diver's Automatic

1521
Diameter
41mm
42mm
Lug-to-Lug
48mm
n/a
Thickness
14mm
12.5mm
lowest
Water Resistance
300m
500m
highest
Power Reserve
n/a
38h
MSRP
$2,500
$1,265
lowest
Movement
Sellita SW200-1
Sellita SW200-1
Case
5 specsCrystal & Dial
1 specsMovement
1 specsPricing
1 specsReviews
Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.
The Marathon GSAR (Government Search & Rescue) Diver's Automatic is widely praised as a versatile and well-made tool watch, with reviewers highlighting its legibility, utilitarian build, and comfort. Owners appreciate the tritium gas tubes for exceptional illumination in darkness, a feature noted as superior to some alternatives. The 41mm case size is considered ideal by some, though one owner found it wore tall and bumped on objects. While the watch is generally seen as a solid value for a Swiss-made tool watch, some owners have reported quality control issues requiring warranty service. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the Marathon GSAR (Government Search & Rescue) Diver's Automatic highly for its robust build and constant legibility from tritium.
Owners widely praise the Squale 1521 for its classic look and robust build, with specific mentions of its wearable 12.5mm thickness and refined case finishing. The 42mm case is noted by some to wear smaller, closer to 40mm, due to short lugs, feeling solid without being too large. However, opinions on the bracelet vary, with some finding it too flashy or stiff, and one owner reported moisture ingress after a shower due to a loose case back. The crown can be difficult to operate due to deep integration, and the 38-hour power reserve is considered old-school but reliable. Overall, owners rate the Squale 1521 highly for its classic design and wearability, despite some reservations about the bracelet and crown.
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