Marathon GSAR (Government Search & Rescue) Diver's AutomaticvsVario 1918 Trench Brass
The numbers, the dial colors, the calibers — laid out so you can stop flipping between tabs.
At a glance
10 of 29 specs differFull specifications
Case
6 specsCrystal & Dial
2 specsMovement
1 specsPricing
1 specsFollow this matchup
Get a note when Marathon GSAR (Government Search & Rescue) Diver's Automatic vs Vario 1918 Trench Brass gets more votes, a community discussion, or a price drop. No account needed.
Owners + reviewers, side by side
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 for its legibility, comfort, and exceptional tritium illumination, with reviewers highlighting its utilitarian, military-equipment feel and a 41mm case size considered ideal. Owners appreciate its grippy bezel and the 300 meters of water resistance provided by the screw-down crown, deeming it a solid value for a Swiss-made tool watch. Some owners report quality control issues, with one user needing to warranty two watches, and another notes the GSAR wears taller than other models, leading to occasional bumping. The reliable ETA 2824-A2 movement is a consistent feature. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the Marathon GSAR (Government Search & Rescue) Diver's Automatic highly for its bright tritium lume and robust, no-nonsense tool watch design.
Owners widely praise the Vario 1918 Trench Brass for its attractive, precisely made dial and case, with the evolving brass patina noted as a positive feature. The bund strap is considered comfortable and well-fitting by some, though others find it stiff and short for larger wrists. The lume is considered poor. The Miyota 82s5 movement is described as adequate, with accuracy ranging from about -10 seconds per day to simply running slow. On balance, owners rate the Vario 1918 Trench Brass highly for its fantastic looks and the unique character of its brass case.
More watches worth a look
Matched to the watches above on size, movement, style and price — microbrands first. Open any one to dig in.
People also compared
Comparisons nearby in the catalog — alternatives to the watches above paired against the matchup.









