Phoibos KrakenvsSternglas Sedius

Owners widely praise the Phoibos Kraken for its excellent lume, dial production, and the thinness of its Miyota 9015 movement, all at a sub-$500 price point. Specific positive mentions include the case and bracelet finishing, with one owner calling the bracelet excellent. The 40mm size is considered ideal by some. However, some owners find the crown guard execution awkward, and the hands have been described as resembling "veiny penises." There is also a concern that the dial's appearance in natural light might not achieve the desired color-shifting, smoky metallic effect. Overall, owners rate the Phoibos Kraken highly for its impressive dial and finishing at the price.

The Sternglas Sedius is widely praised for its harmonious blend of Bauhaus minimalism and Art Deco elegance, featuring a well-balanced sector dial and a smooth-sweeping seconds hand from its Seiko VH31 meca-quartz movement. Owners and reviewers note its pleasing wearability due to the case shape and slender lugs, and it is considered an affordable option with a good price-performance ratio. One reviewer flags legibility issues on the black dial variant, while the blue-on-white offers crispness. The Sternglas Sedius lacks a date complication and features a double-domed sapphire crystal. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the Sternglas Sedius highly for its classy Art Deco aesthetic and value.