Seiko’s subsidiary Lorus not only houses the best value field watch but the second-best one, too! This unsuspecting steel version might not boast an exotic titanium case; however, when I compared both models, I found that this version had some clear strengths over its similarly sized brethren.
Firstly, the RJ655AX9 is generally more widely available and usually sits at an even lower price, making it outrageously good value for the specs alone. More importantly, this ‘sports’ one has a full lumibrite dial. While this painted surface is less attractive to look at, at night, the whole dial comes alive with a glow so bright it looks radioactive! Unlike with Timex’s equally impressive Indiglo system, you don’t need to compress the crown for this to work, and if anything, Lorus’ version is even brighter.
Like the titanium version, this steel option is a perfect casual, throw-on choice that can get down and dirty when required. With it’s compact proportions, it never gets in the way either, and you’ll often forget it’s even on your wrist. For a bargain-bucket price (in most regions), this one is a must-try for any watch lover.
Lorus Steel RJ655AX9 Specifications:
37mm diameter
8mm depth
43mm lug to lug
Seiko VJ33 quartz movement
Mineral crystal
Steel case
Lumibrite dial
100m water resistance
