Squale 1521vsSeiko King Turtle

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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.

Squale 1521 at true scale

1521

Seiko King Turtle at true scale

King Turtle

Diameter

42mm

45mm

Lug-to-Lug

n/a

47.7mm

Thickness

12.5mm

lowest

13.2mm

Water Resistance

500m

highest

200m

Power Reserve

38h

41h

highest

MSRP

$1,265

$650

lowest

Movement

Sellita SW200-1

Seiko 4R36

Case

6 specs
Diameter
42mm
45mm
Thickness
12.5mm
13.2mm
Lug-to-Lug
n/a
47.7mm
Lug Width
20mm
22mm
Material
Steel
Stainless Steel
Water Resistance
500m
200m

Crystal & Dial

2 specs
AR Coating
n/a
Anti-reflective coating on inner surface
Lume
None
LumiBrite on hands and index(es)

Movement

3 specs
Caliber
Sellita SW200-1
Seiko 4R36
Power Reserve
38h
41h
Jewels
0
24

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$1,265
$650
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Reviews

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

Squale 1521

Owners widely praise the Squale 1521 for its classic look and robust build, with specific mentions of its wearable 12.5mm thickness and refined case finishing. The 42mm case is noted by some to wear smaller, closer to 40mm, due to short lugs, feeling solid without being too large. However, opinions on the bracelet vary, with some finding it too flashy or stiff, and one owner reported moisture ingress after a shower due to a loose case back. The crown can be difficult to operate due to deep integration, and the 38-hour power reserve is considered old-school but reliable. Overall, owners rate the Squale 1521 highly for its classic design and wearability, despite some reservations about the bracelet and crown.

Seiko King Turtle

Seiko King Turtle is widely praised for its excellent value and robust design, featuring the reliable 4R36 movement. Owners appreciate its superior lume and a bezel action described as smoother and more precise than some siblings. The 45mm cushion case, while substantial, wears smaller than expected due to its shape and short lug-to-lug distance. On balance, owners and reviewers rate the Seiko King Turtle highly for its proven design and overall value proposition.

From video reviewers

The King Turtle's ceramic bezel and sapphire crystal are significant upgrades. Reviewers noted a slight price increase for these features.

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