Phoibos Reef MastervsZelos 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.

Phoibos Reef Master at true scale

Reef Master

Zelos Swordfish 3 at true scale

Swordfish 3

Diameter

42mm

40mm

Lug-to-Lug

48mm

n/a

Thickness

13mm

12mm

lowest

Water Resistance

200m

200m

MSRP

$335

lowest

$399

Movement

Seiko NH38

Seiko NH35

Case

5 specs
Diameter
42mm
40mm
Thickness
13mm
12mm
Lug-to-Lug
48mm
n/a
Lug Width
22mm
20mm
Material
Stainless Steel
316L Stainless Steel

Crystal & Dial

3 specs
AR Coating
Yes
n/a
Dial Color
Green
Bronze
Lume
Super-LumiNova
None

Movement

1 specs
Caliber
Seiko NH38
Seiko NH35

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$335
$399
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Reviews

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

Phoibos Reef Master

Owners widely praise the Phoibos Reef Master for its exceptional value, with many highlighting the sapphire crystal, AR coating, and extensive BGW9 lume. The DLC coating's scratch resistance and the included leather and rubber straps are also noted positives. Some owners find the 42mm case surprisingly comfortable and not overly bulky. The Shamrock Green dial and texture, as well as the recessed sandwich dial and lumed bezel creating a 3D effect, have received specific praise. Accuracy is reported as good, with one owner noting +-2 sec/day. Criticisms include a rough bezel action that may require lubrication, a disappointing basic folding clasp, and a date window that is too small. The watch's logo has been described as "ugly AF" by some commenters. Overall, owners rate the Phoibos Reef Master highly for its impressive feature set and build quality at its price point.

From video reviewers

The Reef Master offers excellent value for its price point. Reviewers noted concerns regarding the bracelet quality.

Zelos Swordfish 3

Owners and reviewers widely praise the Zelos Swordfish 3 for its exceptional value, with many highlighting the textured sandwich dial and the surprisingly good bracelet. The watch's 40mm case dimensions are considered fine for wearability, and its titanium construction contributes to a compact and comfortable feel. Some owners appreciate the unique appeal of specific dials, such as the teal or yellow Timascus variants. One reviewer noted sharp bracelet edges and legibility issues in bright light on a specific variant. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the Zelos Swordfish 3 highly for its strong value proposition and fun design elements at its price point.