Phoibos NarwhalvsSeiko Prospex Sea

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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.

Phoibos Narwhal at true scale

Narwhal

Seiko Prospex Sea at true scale

Prospex Sea

Diameter

38mm

41.7mm

Lug-to-Lug

46mm

lowest

49.5mm

Thickness

11.5mm

lowest

12.3mm

Water Resistance

200m

200m

Power Reserve

n/a

41h

MSRP

$509

lowest

$595

Movement

Miyota 9015

Seiko 4R35

Case

3 specs
Diameter
38mm
41.7mm
Thickness
11.5mm
12.3mm
Lug-to-Lug
46mm
49.5mm

Crystal & Dial

4 specs
Crystal
Sapphire
Hardlex
AR Coating
Yes
n/a
Dial Color
Malachite
n/a
Lume
Super-LumiNova
LumiBrite on hands, index(es) and bezel

Movement

3 specs
Caliber
Miyota 9015
Seiko 4R35
Power Reserve
0h
41h
Jewels
0
23

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$509
$595
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Reviews

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

Phoibos Narwhal

The Phoibos Narwhal is praised for its captivating aventurine and Howlite dials, and its 38mm case is noted to wear well on smaller wrists, with one owner comparing its profile to a vintage Zenith El Primero. Some owners appreciate the brand's quality for the price, with one describing the case shape as resembling an integrated bracelet. However, criticisms include misaligned markers and a tilted date window, with one owner finding the hands to be too thick. The watch is considered by some to be overpriced at $480, with a slabby design and difficult-to-size bracelet links. Opinions are split on the 38mm size, with some finding it wears larger than expected, and the brand's logo is polarizing. Overall, owners rate the Phoibos Narwhal highly for its unique dial options and distinctive case design at its price point, despite some concerns regarding finishing consistency.

From video reviewers

The unique stone dial is a significant strength. The bracelet's refinement is a weakness. Reviewers disagree on the dial's appeal, with one highlighting its sunburst effect and applied indices, while another focuses on the natural stone variation.

Seiko Prospex Sea

Owners widely report the Seiko Prospex Sea is a well-built watch at a fair price, with some finding its 41.7mm case size perfect while others with smaller wrists consider it big, thick, and heavy. Reviewers consistently praise the excellent lume and robust design. One owner notes the bezel action is smoother and more precise than some other Seiko divers. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the Seiko Prospex Sea highly for its value and proven design.