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.

Marathon GSAR (Government Search & Rescue) Diver's Automatic at true scale

GSAR (Government Search & Rescue) Diver's Automatic

Squale 1521 at true scale

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 specs
Diameter
41mm
42mm
Thickness
14mm
12.5mm
Lug-to-Lug
48mm
n/a
Material
316L Stainless Steel
Steel
Water Resistance
300m
500m

Crystal & Dial

1 specs
Dial Color
Anthracite
n/a

Movement

1 specs
Power Reserve
0h
38h

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$2,500
$1,265
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Reviews

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

Marathon GSAR (Government Search & Rescue) Diver's Automatic

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.

Squale 1521

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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