Phoibos KrakenvsVario 1918 Medic Brass

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.

Owners widely praise the Vario 1918 Medic Brass for its crisp enamel dial, easy-to-read numerals, and cathedral hands, noting the brass case develops an attractive patina over time. However, the soft brass scratches easily, and one owner found the lume to be poor. Accuracy varies, with one example running slow by about 10 seconds per day and another owner deeming the Miyota 82s5 movement just okay. On balance, owners rate the Vario 1918 Medic Brass highly for its unique dial and the evolving character of its brass case.