Phoibos KrakenvsZelos Swordfish 3
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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.

Kraken

Swordfish 3
Diameter
40mm
40mm
Lug-to-Lug
47.5mm
n/a
Thickness
11.5mm
lowest
12mm
Water Resistance
200m
200m
MSRP
$499
$399
lowest
Movement
Miyota 9015
Seiko NH35
Case
3 specsCrystal & Dial
3 specsMovement
1 specsPricing
1 specsReviews
Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.
Owners widely praise the Phoibos Kraken for its excellent lume, gorgeous dial, and crisp bezel clicks, with many finding the 40mm case size ideal. The Miyota 9015 movement is noted as superior, and the case and bracelet finishing are described as improved, contributing to a solid feel at a sub-$500 price point. Some owners find the crown guard execution awkward and the hands resemble "veiny penises," while one user wishes the kraken logo was raised. The dial's appearance in natural light is a concern for one owner, who feared it might not be as color-shifting as advertised. Overall, owners rate the Phoibos Kraken highly for its impressive lume, dial quality, and value.
The watch's attractive price point and retro styling are consistently praised. Reviewers did not agree on any specific weaknesses.
Owners widely praise the Zelos Swordfish 3 for its strong value, with reviewers highlighting the textured sandwich dial, Seiko NH35 movement, 200m water resistance, and surprisingly good bracelet. The titanium construction is noted for making the watch compact and comfortable, weighing 117g. Some owners find the dimensions fine on paper and based on experience with other models. One reviewer flagged that legibility can suffer in bright light and bracelet edges are sharp. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the Zelos Swordfish 3 highly for its incredible value and fun design, particularly with unique dial options.
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