When it was “time” to purchase my first automatic watch, I did the research; and what kept coming up? The Seiko SKX, and for good reason. I started shopping online in earnest, and that is when I stumbled across the watch I ended up purchasing the Seiko 5 Sports SKZ211.

The SKZ211 is commonly referred to as the Atlas or the Landshark. The first thing that I love about the SKZ211 is the fact that it isn’t a diver, but it is a diver. One qualification I wanted in a Seiko was 200m WR. I didn’t know it at the time, but the SKZ211 is the first in the Seiko 5 series to achieve this level of WR. So even though the watch is certainly a sports watch, it’s also at home in the water.

The dial is wonderful with excellent contrast between the bright yellow and black. The bezel looks great with thickness and unique texture. I don’t like that it is hard to turn and it uses a 60 instead of a lumed triangle at the 60 minute position. Speaking of lume, this would be another criticism of the watch. I realize it isn’t a true diver, but the lume leaves much to be desired compared to others at this price point. The signed compass crown has pros and cons. This part of the watch is literally my favorite and most distinctive looking feature of the watch. The crown and crown guard look amazing; the usefulness is underwhelming. The crown has no way to lock, so the compass coordinates just slide around. Most won’t use this watch to take bearings, so it doesn’t really matter, it’s just annoying.

The Seiko 5 Sports SKZ211 is a tank, solid and eye catching, yet surprisingly comfortable and versatile.The bracelet is quality, and this watch is an absolute strap monster. From leather, to rubber, to nato…everything looks good on the SKZ211. It works when I wear it hiking, swimming, and teaching in classrooms.

I didn’t buy the SKX. I bought the Seiko 5 Sports SKZ211 and I’m glad I did. The Atlas checks a lot of the same boxes as the SKX, but retains a unique, distinctive personality.