Marathon GSAR (Government Search & Rescue) Diver's AutomaticvsCWC SBS 1987 Aged Special
The numbers, the dial colors, the calibers — laid out so you can stop flipping between tabs.
At a glance
9 of 29 specs differFull specifications
Case
4 specsCrystal & Dial
2 specsMovement
2 specsPricing
1 specsFollow this matchup
Get a note when Marathon GSAR (Government Search & Rescue) Diver's Automatic vs CWC SBS 1987 Aged Special gets more votes, a community discussion, or a price drop. No account needed.
Owners + reviewers, side by side
Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.
The Marathon GSAR (Government Search & Rescue) Diver's Automatic is widely praised for its legibility, comfort, and exceptional tritium illumination, with reviewers highlighting its utilitarian, military-equipment feel and a 41mm case size considered ideal. Owners appreciate its grippy bezel and the 300 meters of water resistance provided by the screw-down crown, deeming it a solid value for a Swiss-made tool watch. Some owners report quality control issues, with one user needing to warranty two watches, and another notes the GSAR wears taller than other models, leading to occasional bumping. The reliable ETA 2824-A2 movement is a consistent feature. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the Marathon GSAR (Government Search & Rescue) Diver's Automatic highly for its bright tritium lume and robust, no-nonsense tool watch design.
Owners widely praise the CWC SBS 1987 Aged Special for its rugged build and military heritage, with some finding its quality comparable to higher-end watches. A reviewer notes the 41mm PVD-coated watch features a bright SuperLuminova dial. One owner reports a bit of play in the 60-click bezel, present from new, alongside minor wear on the PVD coating and bezel insert. On balance, owners rate the CWC SBS 1987 Aged Special highly for its rugged build and military heritage, despite some questioning its value at £700.
More watches worth a look
Matched to the watches above on size, movement, style and price — microbrands first. Open any one to dig in.
People also compared
Comparisons nearby in the catalog — alternatives to the watches above paired against the matchup.









