The Phoibos Apollo Grey PY036E is constructed from 316L stainless steel, has a lug to lug of 48mm, a width of 42mm and a height of 12.5mm. The most obvious feature of the case is the large, screw-down crown snuggled between crown guards at the 8 o’clock position, on the left side of the case, like the Citizen FUGU. This is done to prevent the crown from digging into the wrist, and also makes it a sensible choice for those who are left-handed or just prefer to wear a watch on the right wrist.

As you would expect, the Phoibos Apollo is equipped with a sapphire crystal, it is flat and the underside has three layers of AR coating. The 120 click bezel is aligned well and operates with solid clicks that have little backplay. I find it easier to grasp the bezel from the sides rather than the top and bottom.The insert is ceramic and the markings are generously lumed with BGW9.

The matte grey dial is a semi sandwich dial constructed in several layers. The triangle at 12 and the numeral indices are printed onto the outer dial ring while the other markers are recessed. The four main compass points are printed on the chapter ring. Unfortunately the chapter ring is not perfectly aligned with the dial and bezel markers. It is off by only a tiny amount, and is only noticeable if you really look for it.

The hands for the Phoibos Apollo are a unique feature and tend to dominate the watch face. The minute hand is a large, hollow sword hand that reminds me of old rocket designs. The hour hand is a large, hollow circle with a tail that could easily represent a comet or even the moon. A more simple second hand with a lumed tip sweeps around the dial, almost unnoticed. The hollow design of the hands means that the dial is not as obscured as you might think. It is easy to tell the time, even with a glance. The BGW9 lume of the Apollo is impressive overall, bright and long lasting, though the numbers 3, 6 and 9 are not as intense as the other markings.

The caseback is basic. The stainless steel bracelet is well made and easy to adjust, the clasp has three micro adjusts. The bracelet does not taper so it is pretty heavy, probably a good move as it helps to balance the weight of the case.

The movement inside the Phoibos Apollo Grey PY036E is a Seiko NH38, so there is no date and no ghost position when you pull out the crown. Operation of the hands is precise. The movement in my watch is running -5 seconds a day, sitting upright in a vertical watch winder. Definitely within Seiko’s stated tolerances. I would expect the NH38 to be reliable and provide years of service.

The Apollo wears well on the wrist. The shape of the case and downturned lugs makes for a comfortable fit, but it does feel heavier than other watches with a similar size. I do not have the scales to get an accurate weight but the watch just feels chunky and solid. It brings to mind the old expression ‘built like a tank’. I think the Apollo looks good on my 19cm wrist but it may be a little overwhelming for someone with a smaller wrist, and more suited to someone with a larger wrist. It is not a subtle watch, but the Apollo is unapologetic and wears its unique touches with pride.

I think the main attraction of the Phoibos Apollo Grey PY036E is its looks. It is different and not just another homage. Some will love it, some will not.