Smiths PRS-40 ChronographvsSeiko Essentials Chronograph
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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.

PRS-40 Chronograph

Essentials Chronograph
Diameter
40.2mm
40mm
Lug-to-Lug
53.5mm
45.8mm
lowest
Thickness
12.3mm
11.5mm
lowest
Water Resistance
100m
100m
MSRP
n/a
$415
Movement
Seiko VK61
Seiko 8T63
Case
4 specsCrystal & Dial
2 specsMovement
3 specsPricing
1 specsReviews
Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.
Owners praise the Smiths PRS-40 CHRONOGRAPH's bead-blasted finish, noting it shows light marks from use but no deep scratches, and appreciate its sapphire crystal. Some find it wears thinner than automatic variants, while others note it wears large. The watch is described as having unique, "badass" looks, with one owner calling it "ugly" but appreciating its "bombproof nature" for harsh environments and its 12 o'clock crown. The purchase process is noted as tricky due to limited availability. On balance, owners rate the Smiths PRS-40 CHRONOGRAPH highly for its robust, utilitarian design and bead-blasted finish, making it a compelling tool watch.
Owners widely praise the Seiko Essentials Chronograph for its beautiful and fun dial, with one noting the green dial and gold hands, and another finding the dark greenish dial less impressive than black. The watch is considered a great first watch, comfortable for active wear due to its lightweight nature, and enjoyable for its chronograph function. One owner reported the orange stripe on a stopwatch button expanded and fell off in heat, while another found the 40mm case wore smaller than expected. The Seiko Essentials Chronograph is considered beautiful for its price, especially on the grey market. On balance, owners rate the Seiko Essentials Chronograph highly for its attractive dial and comfortable wearability at its price point.
The watch is praised for its impressive execution and value at its price point. Its 50-meter water resistance is cited as a potential limitation.
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