San Martin Vintage MM300 Automatic SN0087vsSeiko 5KX

The San Martin Vintage MM300 Automatic SN0087 is praised for its top-notch case and handset finishing, consistent with the brand's reputation. Despite its 44mm case and 14mm thickness, owners report it wears noticeably smaller and fits comfortably on a 7" wrist. Some owners find the design a "messy mixup" and note the lume is an "ugly yellow," preferring BGW9 over C3. One owner found the pin and collar bracelet difficult to resize, with the half-link prone to damage. Overall, owners rate the San Martin Vintage MM300 Automatic SN0087 highly for its impressive finishing and comfortable wearability despite its dimensions.

Owners widely praise the Seiko 5KX for its strong lume and value, with many reporting accuracy within +/-5 to 10 seconds per day, though some experience +/-1 second. The 42.5mm case is noted to wear smaller, and the watch offers a comfortable feel for many. Some owners are split on the bracelet quality, with opinions ranging from "cheaper side" with hollow links to "flimsy-feeling" jubilee. A few quality control issues have been reported, including a failed bezel clickspring and misaligned components. The Seiko 5KX is seen by some as a worthy successor to the original SKX, offering an upgraded movement with hacking and hand-winding capabilities, though others lament the loss of ISO certification and a screw-down crown. Overall, owners rate the Seiko 5KX highly for its excellent lume and value proposition, making it a popular choice for everyday wear.