Lorier MerlinvsSeiko Prospex Sea Save the Ocean Special Edition

Owners widely praise the Lorier Merlin for its vintage-inspired 37mm case, heat-blued hands, raised numerals, and hesalite crystal. The watch is noted for its comfortable wear, with some finding it wears large despite its size and even thinner on a two-piece strap. Drilled lug holes and a locking bezel are also appreciated features. Accuracy varies, with one owner reporting +8 seconds per day, while others do not specify. Some owners find the dual-crown design unappealing or the case chunky, with the 37mm size feeling small for a dive bezel watch, though others find it perfect for smaller wrists. The supplied strap and its hardware are considered cheap by one owner, and the bezel action is described as light and hollow. A desire for a sapphire crystal option at the price point is mentioned by some, while others prefer the hesalite for its vintage look. On balance, owners and the community rate the Lorier Merlin highly for its authentic vintage aesthetic and comfortable wear.

The Seiko Prospex Sea Save the Ocean Special Edition is widely praised for its attractive, unique, and textured dials, often described as having a "Grand Seiko feel" at a more accessible price point, with specific mentions of wave patterns, lagoon hues, and manta ray motifs. Owners appreciate the smooth bezel operation and satisfactory lume. Accuracy figures vary, with one owner reporting +5 seconds per day, while another notes a range from +1/+2 to about -6 seconds per day. The 6R35 movement offers a 70-hour power reserve, and some models feature sapphire crystals. Criticisms include a desire for exhibition casebacks and concerns about the quality and security of the stamped metal clasps and bracelets, which are frequently described as rattly or underwhelming, though this is noted as a common Seiko trait. Some owners are split on the number of Save the Ocean variations and dislike the cyclops magnifier.