Initial Impressions: This timepiece unabashedly embodies the essence of a true diver’s watch. If you possess even a moderate familiarity with Seiko’s esteemed SKX line of dive watches (and to be transparent, I have yet to personally own one), the Islander will feel strikingly familiar. Its purpose is to fill the void left by the now-discontinued SKX, a void that the new Seiko 5 models, although commendable, failed to entirely satisfy for devoted SKX enthusiasts. However, the Islander stands apart; it is a true oceanic timepiece. While lacking ISO certification, it proudly possesses the same critical specifications as the SKX, including a water resistance of 200 meters, a screw-down crown, and a robust screw-down case back.
Additionally, the size of the watch is quite comparable, with a diameter of 43mm, thickness of 14mm, and a lug-to-lug measurement of 46mm. The resemblance is so uncanny that the Islander can seamlessly accommodate the vast array of aftermarket parts designed for the SKX007. This news brings joy to the hearts of watch modders worldwide. However, while sharing numerous similarities with the SKX, the Islander exceeds SKX specifications in various noteworthy ways. This watch features a NH36 movement that can be hand-wound and hacked. The watch features a flat sapphire crystal that is anti-reflective and a bezel insert made of ceramic. The lugs are drilled, allowing for easy switching between bracelets and straps.
The array of upgrades incorporated into the timepiece yields impressive results. For a price of $299, you get a remarkably splendid watch. One of the reasons I have never owned an SKX is because I have always been inclined towards Orient’s economical diver watches. These timepieces, although still considered tool watches, possess a touch of sophistication, making them suitable for both professional and casual settings. The Islander inherits this characteristic, boasting finely crafted applied hour indices in contrast to the SKX’s luminescent patches. Moreover, the dial is elegantly minimalist, adorned solely with the words “Automatic” and “200M,” tastefully balanced by the luminous Island Watch logo positioned above.
While I appreciate the triangle-within-a-circle design of the Island Watch logo, I remain somewhat uncertain about its placement on the watch face. At times, it appears as a diminutive subdial, yet frequently it fades from view and escapes my notice. Similarly, the case and bracelet showcase a delightful combination of polished and brushed surfaces, creating a harmonious interplay with light and imparting a refined aesthetic to the watch. Thanks to these elevated features, the Islander seamlessly transitions from a day spent snorkeling at the beach to a sophisticated dinner date.
All of the advantages mentioned are certainly appealing, but are there any drawbacks to consider? As previously stated, one notable drawback is the substantial size of this timepiece. Personally, I don’t find the diameter to be problematic, although it could be slimmer to align better with my own preferences (fortunately, they offer a 38mm diameter option that measures 13mm in thickness). However, this can hardly be considered a significant downside, as its impact largely depends on individual tastes.
To summarize, my overall experience with the Islander watch has been overwhelmingly positive. In fact, it has convinced me that purchasing an SKX would not have been the best choice. Although I must return the review unit, I am eagerly looking forward to acquiring an Islander for myself in the near future. It’s worth noting that Marc, the owner, has hinted at the upcoming release of additional Islander models. With a current lineup of 17 watches encompassing both diver and aviator styles, the Islander series boasts impressive specifications and an attractive price-to-value ratio, making it a collection worth monitoring closely.
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