Formex Reef GMTvsSeiko Seiko 5 Sports SKX series
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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.

Reef GMT

Seiko 5 Sports SKX series
Diameter
42mm
42.5mm
Lug-to-Lug
47mm
46mm
lowest
Thickness
11.4mm
lowest
13.6mm
Water Resistance
300m
highest
100m
Power Reserve
56h
highest
41h
MSRP
$2,235
$495
lowest
Movement
Sellita SW330-2
Seiko 4R34
Case
4 specsCrystal & Dial
3 specsMovement
3 specsPricing
1 specsReviews
Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.
Owners and reviewers widely praise the Formex Reef GMT for its impressive specifications and value, highlighting its unique porthole case shape and comfortable quick-release bracelet with on-the-fly micro-adjustment. The COSC-certified Sellita SW330-2 movement is noted for good finishing and reliable timekeeping, with a 56-hour power reserve. However, the watch's overall width and lug-to-lug span, particularly with male endlinks, are frequently cited as being too large for smaller wrists. Some reviewers also find the bezel action stiff and slippery, and the GMT model lacks a timing bezel option with lume. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the Formex Reef GMT highly for its robust construction and excellent specs at its price point.
The watch features a COSC-certified SW330-2 GMT movement, which is visible through a sapphire crystal display case back and beautifully decorated. The watch's water-resistance of up to 300m/1000ft is a notable feature. The 42mm diameter may be too large for smaller wrists.
Owners widely praise the Seiko 5 Sports SKX series for its iconic, tough, and rugged dive watch design, timeless styling, and tool-like nature, with many finding its build quality and finishing superior to alternatives. The comfortable jubilee bracelet is frequently cited as a positive wearability feature. Accuracy with the 4R34 movement is a "luck of the draw," with specs allowing +/-40 seconds per day, though many owners report +/-5 to 10 seconds. Some owners experienced issues like scratched crystals, failed springbars, or misaligned bezels and hands. The Seiko 5 Sports SKX series is seen as a decent watch, readily available under £200, but not a serious tool watch like its predecessor due to lacking a screw-down crown, bezel pip, and ISO rating. Overall, owners rate the Seiko 5 Sports SKX series highly for its iconic design and value, despite some lacking modern features.
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