Seiko “Arnie” SNJ025 vs Timex Expedition Atlantis vs Casio Pro Trek PRW-3500: Comprehensive Outdoor Watch Comparison

When it comes to tough outdoor watches, three popular contenders stand out: the Seiko Prospex “Arnie” SNJ025, the Timex Expedition Atlantis (model T5K463), and the Casio Pro Trek PRW-3500-1. Each of these watches comes from a renowned brand and offers a unique blend of features and design. Seiko’s “Arnie” (nicknamed for its appearance in Arnold Schwarzenegger’s 1980s action films) is a solar-powered analog-digital dive watch with serious credentials hodinkee.com hodinkee.com. The Timex Expedition Atlantis is a classic no-nonsense digital watch that delivers practical functions at a budget-friendly price twobrokewatchsnobs.com twobrokewatchsnobs.com. Casio’s Pro Trek PRW-3500, on the other hand, is a feature-packed digital instrument, boasting solar power, advanced sensors, and even atomic time synchronization prnewswire.com prnewswire.com. This report will compare these three models in detail – from technical specs and design to real-world performance, reviews, pricing, and recent updates – to help you understand their strengths and differences.

Technical Specifications and Features

Let’s start with a side-by-side look at the key technical specs and functional features of the Seiko SNJ025 “Arnie”, Timex Atlantis, and Casio PRW-3500:

• Power Source & Movement: The Seiko SNJ025 is powered by an in-house Seiko Solar quartz movement (Caliber H851), which charges via light and can run for ~6 months on a full charge (up to 21 months in power-save mode) seikowatches.com. It offers quartz accuracy of ±15 seconds per month seikowatches.com. The Timex Atlantis runs on a standard battery-powered quartz digital movement, with an impressive battery life of about 5–7 years on a CR2016 cell twobrokewatchsnobs.com twobrokewatchsnobs.com. In contrast, the Casio Pro Trek PRW-3500 uses Casio’s Tough Solar technology (solar rechargeable battery) combined with Multi-Band 6 atomic timekeeping. After a full charge, the PRW-3500’s battery can last around 23 months in power-save mode without further light exposure prnewswire.com. It also automatically synchronizes with radio time signals for precision, so the time is always accurate to the second with no manual adjustment needed prnewswire.com.
• Display and Timekeeping: The Seiko “Arnie” is an analog-digital hybrid: it has traditional analog hands for time, plus a small digital LCD display at 12 o’clock. The analog and digital systems are synchronized – you set the time via the electronic crown, and the hands adjust automatically hodinkee.com. The digital panel on the SNJ025 shows various modes (alarm, stopwatch, calendar, secondary time zone, etc.) and has an LED backlight for low-light viewing seikowatches.com hodinkee.com. The Timex Atlantis is a fully digital watch with a segmented LCD display. It features Timex’s signature INDIGLO electroluminescent backlight, which brightly illuminates the entire screen for easy reading in the dark twobrokewatchsnobs.com. The Atlantis display is known for its large, high-visibility digits and a green-tinted background that give it a retro 1980s vibe twobrokewatchsnobs.com. Meanwhile, the Casio PRW-3500 has a monochrome digital LCD display as well, with an option for Full Auto LED backlight illumination (it can light up automatically with a tilt of the wrist in the dark) rei.com prnewswire.com. Notably, newer variants like the PRW-3510 introduced a high-contrast STN LCD for improved viewing angles watchuseek.com, but the core PRW-3500’s display is already clear and packed with information. All three watches can display the date/day and have stopwatch and alarm functions, but the Casio goes further with world time (31 time zones) and other advanced readouts rei.com rei.com.
• Water Resistance & Durability: All three models are built for water exposure, but the degree varies. The Seiko SNJ025 “Arnie” is ISO-certified for 200 meters (660 ft) of water resistance, true to its Prospex dive watch heritage hodinkee.com seikowatches.com. It features a screw-down crown and screw-down pushers; these must be locked to maintain the full water resistance for diving hodinkee.com. The Timex Expedition Atlantis is rated 100 meters water-resistant twobrokewatchsnobs.com, which is sufficient for swimming, snorkeling, and showering – essentially “worry-free in rain or splashes” and even surface water sports ebay.com twobrokewatchsnobs.com. It does not have screw-down buttons, but its case construction keeps it sealed for everyday use and light water activities. The Casio Pro Trek PRW-3500 stands out with 200-meter water resistance as well prnewswire.com rei.com. In fact, it was the first Pro Trek model to achieve 200m depth rating, restoring the higher standard that some earlier Pro Treks had reduced prnewswire.com. This means the PRW-3500 isn’t just for hiking – you can confidently take it surfing, kayaking, or even diving according to Casio’s Timepiece Division VP prnewswire.com. In terms of general durability, the Seiko and Casio use a combination of stainless steel and plastic/resin in their cases. The SNJ025 has a stainless steel case with a protective plastic shroud around it, a design inherited from Seiko’s “Tuna” dive watches to add shock protection teddybaldassarre.com teddybaldassarre.com. The Casio PRW-3500 has a robust resin case with a stainless steel caseback and bezel, plus large textured pushers that can be operated with gloves on prnewswire.com. It’s also rated for -10°C low-temperature resistance, so cold environments won’t stop it casiofanmag.com rei.com. The Timex Atlantis has a lightweight resin case and acrylic crystal, with a stainless steel back; it’s not built for heavy shock, but owners report it to be quite durable for everyday knocks and bumps, comparable to some entry-level G-Shocks in toughness feel twobrokewatchsnobs.com. All three watches have protective crystals: Seiko uses its proprietary Hardlex mineral crystal which is flat for a classic tool-watch look teddybaldassarre.com, Timex uses an acrylic (which can scratch more easily but is also shatter-resistant), and Casio uses a mineral glass on the PRW-3500 casiofanmag.com.
• Size & Weight: In terms of dimensions, these watches vary from moderate to very large. The Seiko “Arnie” measures 47.8 mm in diameter and about 13.8–14.4 mm thick (with a 50.5 mm lug-to-lug length) seikowatches.com hodinkee.com. It’s a hefty watch, weighing roughly 114 grams on its silicone strap seikowatches.com. Despite its size, reviewers note it “wears really well” and is not uncomfortable or top-heavy – the shrouded case has a relatively short lug-to-lug, and the weight is manageable due to the silicone band and resin shroud hodinkee.com. The Timex Expedition Atlantis is much smaller and lighter: about 40 mm diameter, only 10.5 mm thick, and a mere ~30 grams in weight twobrokewatchsnobs.com twobrokewatchsnobs.com. Its lug-to-lug (height) is around 45 mm, and the strap width is an uncommon 19 mm twobrokewatchsnobs.com twobrokewatchsnobs.com. This compact size means “you’re barely going to feel this watch on-wrist” and it easily fits under sleeves twobrokewatchsnobs.com. The Casio Pro Trek PRW-3500 is again on the larger side: the case is roughly 53.4 mm wide, 14.5 mm thick, with a lug-to-lug around 56–57 mm casiofanmag.com. It’s a big watch meant for visibility and rugged use. Thanks to the resin construction, it’s lighter than it looks (around ~90g on resin strap, though the exact weight isn’t specified officially). It also has a wide rotating bezel that can be used for navigation (compass markings) – this adds to its diameter but also to its functionality casiofanmag.com casiofanmag.com. Overall, if you have smaller wrists, the Timex will feel most compact, while the Seiko and Casio are large watches that make a bold statement (the Seiko in a more military-diver style, and the Casio in a high-tech outdoor instrument style).
• Sensors and Special Functions: One of the biggest differences among these three watches is the presence (or absence) of environmental sensors. The Casio Pro Trek PRW-3500 is loaded with Triple Sensor Version 3 technology, which means it includes a digital compass, barometer, altimeter, and thermometer all built-in prnewswire.com casiofanmag.com. These sensors allow the PRW-3500 to provide direction, atmospheric pressure and weather trend alerts, altitude readings (with storage of up to 30 altitude records and cumulative ascent/descent data), and temperature readings rei.com casiofanmag.com. Such features make it a true navigator’s watch for hiking, climbing, or any adventure where you need to monitor your environment. It even has a sunrise/sunset time display after you input your coordinates, which is useful for planning outdoor activities casiofanmag.com. The Seiko SNJ025 and Timex Atlantis do not have these kinds of sensors – they are not “ABC” (Altimeter-Barometer-Compass) watches. Instead, they focus on timekeeping functions. The Seiko “Arnie” provides basics like a chronograph stopwatch (up to 100 hours, with 1/100 second precision), a daily alarm, and a perpetual calendar to year 2100 seikowatches.com. Those are actually quite advanced for an analog-digital diver. It also has a power reserve indicator/battery life warning (so you know when to charge it up in the sun) and an LED illumination for the digital display in low light seikowatches.com. The Timex Atlantis similarly offers a stopwatch with lap/split timing, a countdown timer, multi-time zone capability (second time zone feature), daily alarms (possibly up to 3 alarms, as common in Timex digitals), and a full calendar twobrokewatchsnobs.com. One distinctive feature of Timex is the INDIGLO backlight, which in this watch can be activated by a button (and some Timex models allow a “night mode” where pressing any button lights the Indiglo). Reviewers love the “stunning” Indiglo glow that makes for an incredibly clear readout in the dark twobrokewatchsnobs.com, although in this model the backlight button is a bit small. Overall, the Casio PRW-3500 is by far the most feature-rich, adding also atomic time synchronization (it syncs up to 6 times a day to radio signals worldwide) and a battery power-saving mode. The Seiko and Timex focus on simpler timekeeping functions, with the Seiko geared toward diving and the Timex toward basic field use.
• Accuracy & Timekeeping: With quartz movements, all three watches are very accurate timekeepers. The Seiko’s quartz is stated to keep time within ±15 seconds per month seikowatches.com. The Timex quartz is similarly reliable (users report only a few seconds gain or loss over several months of use twobrokewatchsnobs.com). The Casio, thanks to its radio-controlled atomic sync, effectively keeps perfect time as long as it can receive the calibration signal (and even without the signal, its quartz base accuracy is within ±15 sec/month). Additionally, the PRW-3500 and Timex Atlantis both offer 12/24-hour display formats and the Casio has an hourly chime and multiple alarms for timekeeping customization rei.com twobrokewatchsnobs.com. The Seiko’s analog display means it’s always a 12-hour format on the hands, but the digital window can display 24-hour time if set to the secondary time zone or chronograph. For calendar, all three have fully automated calendars (no need to adjust for short months or leap years; Seiko’s is pre-programmed to 2100, Timex typically to 2099, Casio to 2099 as well). So in daily timekeeping tasks like telling time at a glance and tracking dates or alarms, each watch is dependable, with Casio having the edge of not requiring manual time adjustment due to its atomic feature.

In summary, technically the Casio Pro Trek is the most advanced, built for serious outdoor use with solar power, triple sensors, and atomic accuracy. The Seiko “Arnie” SNJ025 is a hybrid tool watch, blending analog dive watch tradition with useful digital functions and solar charging. The Timex Atlantis is the simplest but very reliable, focusing on core digital watch functions with a nostalgic flair and superb backlight. Next, we’ll compare how these specs translate into real-world design, comfort, and style.

Design and Aesthetics

Each of these watches has a distinct design catering to different tastes – from the Seiko’s military dive watch look to the Timex’s retro digital display and the Casio’s modern outdoor instrument style.

• Seiko Prospex “Arnie” SNJ025 Design: The Seiko SNJ025 is immediately recognizable by its “tuna can” style case with a black protective shroud. At 47.8 mm wide and clad in matte black, it has a commanding wrist presence that exudes ruggedness. The design is actually a revival of Seiko’s 1982 Hybrid Diver’s watch, so it carries a lot of 1980s charm and “tool watch” DNA hodinkee.com hodinkee.com. It features a uni-directional rotating dive bezel with an elapsed time scale (useful for timing dives or any elapsed time). The dial is mostly analog – big bold luminescent hands (Seiko’s LumiBrite on the hands and hour markers) make it easy to read the time in any light seikowatches.com. Up at 12 o’clock, a small digital LCD window sits inconspicuously, with a black-on-grey display that blends into the dial when not active. There is a subtle Prospex “X” logo and the word “Solar” on the dial, reminding that it’s a modern solar reissue teddybaldassarre.com. The SNJ025’s case has four pushers – two on each side – but unlike a G-Shock, these pushers screw down for water resistance. When unscrewed, an orange ring is visible on the button stem as a warning that the seal is not engaged hodinkee.com. This is a cool design element for a dive watch, though it means you have to remember to lock them. The crystal is flat Hardlex mineral, which keeps reflection low (important for readability under sunlight or water) teddybaldassarre.com. With its large crown and shrouded lugs, the Arnie looks every bit an adventure watch from an action movie. Despite the size, many note that it doesn’t overhang the wrist dramatically – “Yes, it’s massive, but it wears really well…lightweight and relatively square in proportions” hodinkee.com. The 22 mm silicone strap it comes on is soft, flexible, and features a wave vent design (to accommodate wetsuits or just to add comfort and stretch) teddybaldassarre.com. The overall aesthetic is “burly [and] testosterone-fueled” (in the words of one reviewer) yet surprisingly wearable day-to-day hodinkee.com hodinkee.com. It comes in the classic black, and Seiko also offered variants in different colorways (like an army green or khaki “Urban Safari” edition in other reference numbers) for those who want a less tactical look hodinkee.com strapcode.com.
• Timex Expedition Atlantis Design: The Timex Atlantis has a classic digital watch design from the 1980s/90s era. In fact, it’s often celebrated for its nostalgic looks – it’s the kind of watch many might remember from childhood. The case is tonneau or pillow-shaped resin, about 40 mm across, with a mix of black and dark gray tones. It has four small push buttons at the corners, labeled for Mode, Indiglo, Set, and Alarm, in true old-school fashion twobrokewatchsnobs.com. The front has a fixed bezel area with printed labels and a retro “Expedition” logo, and the dial is dominated by the LCD screen. The display shows the time in big segmented digits that are very easy to read at a glance twobrokewatchsnobs.com. Around the screen, the Atlantis has a ring of text indicating its functions (Chrono, Alarm, Timer, etc.), giving it a slightly busy, techy look that screams 1980s (in a fun way). The digits are noted as “very large… making full use of the screen”, which users appreciate for legibility twobrokewatchsnobs.com. When you press the Indiglo button, the entire display glows a cool blue-green, a signature Timex feature that is both functional and “looks stunning in the dark” twobrokewatchsnobs.com. The watch’s color scheme is typically black with some red or orange accents on the word “Indiglo” or “Alarm” text (varies by production batch). The strap is a 19 mm black resin strap with a simple buckle. Notably, the strap is soft and comfortable – one reviewer was “surprisingly” pleased with its quality for an entry-level watch twobrokewatchsnobs.com. It’s also a vented design and doesn’t attract dust like some silicone straps do twobrokewatchsnobs.com. Timex also produced the Atlantis in variants: for example, some versions came in a silver-tone resin case with a steel bracelet, or with camo fabric straps, etc., but the T5K463 is the black resin strap model. In terms of comfort and size, this watch is the smallest and lightest of the trio; at only 10 mm thick and 30g, it “is incredibly lightweight… you’re barely going to feel it” on the wrist twobrokewatchsnobs.com. Its design is definitely utilitarian and perhaps “plasticky” compared to the more expensive watches, but that’s part of the charm for fans of this watch. It looks like a reliable little companion you wouldn’t mind getting dirty. Overall, the Atlantis’ aesthetics are retro, functional, and unpretentious – it’s a digital watch that proudly looks like a digital watch, perfect for those who enjoy vintage style or just need an easy readout while outdoors or exercising.
• Casio Pro Trek PRW-3500 Design: The Casio PRW-3500 is designed to be a professional outdoor instrument on the wrist, and its look reflects that purpose. It’s a large round watch with a bold presence. The case is primarily dark grey/black resin, built tough with a mix of smooth and knurled textures. One immediate eye-catcher is its large rotating compass bezel. The bezel has engraved markings for the cardinal directions and degrees, and it can be used in conjunction with the digital compass (you can align it to track bearings) casiofanmag.com casiofanmag.com. This bezel also has a non-slip edge design, making it easy to grip even with gloves – Casio explicitly shaped it for easy operation in harsh conditions prnewswire.com. The watch face is dominated by the digital display. The PRW-3500’s LCD is segmented but arranged in a way to show multiple data fields: typically time on the main line, date/day on another, and sensor readings or secondary info on others when activated. There are icons or labels on the dial indicating mode (alarm, charge level, etc.). Casio’s design language here is “high-tech rugged”: it’s not trying to be sleek or minimal. There are text labels on the bezel and dial like “Baro”, “Alt”, “Comp”, “Light” near the respective buttons, so you know what everything does at a glance. It even says “200M WR” on the dial, emphasizing its dive-level water resistance. The PRW-3500 has three large pushers on the right and two on the left, plus a huge light button at 6 o’clock front. The buttons are made oversized and textured for ease of use. A reviewer on REI noted that the watch “seems to be holding up under constant use… withstanding the rigors of daily use” and appreciated that even with all the features, the “functions were easy to set up” on such a big watch rei.com. The band on the standard PRW-3500-1 is a black resin strap with a traditional buckle. It’s referred to as a “soft urethane band” that provides a “comfortable fit” despite the watch’s size rei.com. Casio also released variants: for instance, one version has an orange bezel and band for a more vibrant look, and another (PRW-3500T) has a titanium metal bracelet and a gray bezel for those who want a metallic feel prnewswire.com. But the black model is the classic. In terms of style, the Casio is the most utilitarian and “techy” of the three – it’s not something you’d slide under a dress shirt cuff, but it looks perfectly at home on a trail, mountain, or at sea. It’s bold and functional rather than fashionable, though some do like the gadget aesthetic it brings. Think of it as a wrist gadget that also tells time – a “real outdoor gear” watch, equipped for any adventure as Casio describes it youtube.com.

Expert Reviews and User Opinions

What do experts and everyday users say about these watches? Here we summarize some review highlights and public opinions for each model, which can illuminate their real-world performance and any quirks or praises they’ve earned.

Seiko “Arnie” SNJ025 – Reviews and Impressions

The Seiko Prospex SNJ025 “Arnie” garnered a lot of excitement from watch enthusiasts, especially those who remember the original. Professional reviewers have praised its successful blend of vintage appeal and modern tech. James Stacey of Hodinkee noted that the 2019 reissue Arnie stays very true to the original’s “burly, testosterone-fueled appeal,” yet brings subtle updates like solar power and a second time zone that make it even more practical hodinkee.com hodinkee.com. He remarked that while “the SNJ025 looks huge, it’s not at all hard to wear”, emphasizing that on his smaller wrist it sat securely and comfortably thanks to the case shape and soft strap hodinkee.com. This matches many owners’ experiences that the watch, though large, doesn’t feel as overbearing as its measurements suggest.

The legibility and functionality of the SNJ025 also get positive nods. Reviewers love Seiko’s LumiBrite lume on the hands and indices, which is excellent for night diving or low light. The small digital screen is inevitably a point of discussion: it is quite tiny, but as Hodinkee’s review notes, in decent lighting or with the backlight, it’s actually “excellent” in legibility hodinkee.com. The limitation, however, is that the single tiny screen means you sometimes have to cycle through functions. For example, Stacey points out that the chronograph works fine, but you can’t see the chrono elapsed time in the dark because the same button for the backlight also handles certain functions, so if you’re timing something at night you have to press a button that might actually pause the timer hodinkee.com hodinkee.com. In other words, the user interface is basic – “very easy to understand” but also “a bit limited,” as he puts it hodinkee.com. This is a trade-off of the ana-digi design; it’s simple and reliable but not as customizable as a fully digital interface.

On the durability front, many divers and outdoorsmen have commented that the SNJ025 is a true tool watch. It meets ISO dive watch standards (some purists love that detail) teddybaldassarre.com, and they’ve taken it into saltwater, mud, and snow with no issues. The screw-down pushers are generally seen as a clever touch for water safety – but a few users note that having to unscrew them for even routine functions (like starting the chrono) can be a minor inconvenience if you’re frequently using those features on dry land. However, that’s a necessary design for a dive-ready analog-digital.

Another aspect often mentioned is the “cool factor” of this watch. It’s not every day you find an analog-digital dive watch, let alone one with Hollywood pedigree. Collectors on forums have expressed that wearing the Arnie is just plain fun – it’s a conversation starter for those who know it from Predator or Commando. As one writer quipped, it’s “an analog-digital combo just begging for jungle warfare… and a big veiny wrist to call home” hodinkee.com. In daily use, though, even those without action-hero arms have found it enjoyable.

Importantly, recent news for the SNJ025: Seiko produced it for a few years (starting in 2019), but as of 2025 the model has been discontinued by Seiko teddybaldassarre.com. It had a “very successful second run” according to one report, but now that it’s discontinued, fans speculate that it might become a cult collectible in the future just like the original H558 “Arnie” did teddybaldassarre.com. Seiko has released a few variant editions (like the “Safarnie” models SNJ029/031 in safari colorways), but there isn’t yet a direct successor model. So, public opinion is that if you want an Arnie, grab one while they’re still available in the market, because they may become harder to find new. Overall, the Seiko SNJ025 is well-regarded as a distinctive, well-built watch – pros frequently cited include its solar convenience, robust build, and nostalgic design; common cons mentioned are the bulk and the small digital display’s limitations.

Timex Expedition Atlantis – Reviews and Impressions

The Timex Atlantis T5K463 is often described as a “no-frills workhorse with a healthy dose of nostalgia.” Enthusiast reviewers who typically handle luxury watches have been charmed by this humble digital. Michael Penate of Two Broke Watch Snobs reviewed the Atlantis and noted how it “fuels childhood nostalgia and cheap thrills”, calling it one of the most enjoyable digital watches he’d worn in years twobrokewatchsnobs.com. For a watch in the $30–$60 range, it impresses by ticking the right boxes: comfortable, functional, and fun.

A big highlight in reviews is the comfort and lightness of the Atlantis. It’s “incredibly lightweight” (only ~30g), with a slim 10mm profile, so you barely feel it twobrokewatchsnobs.com. This makes it great for outdoor activities or sports – you can run, hike, or sleep with it and forget it’s there. The resin strap gets surprisingly good feedback, described as “soft and comfortable — certainly better than… other entry level sports watches” twobrokewatchsnobs.com. The 19mm lug width is a bit unusual, but some users have successfully fitted NATO straps or swapped in alternatives for personal style.

Legibility and interface: Users love the big digital numbers on the Timex. The display is clear and the segmented digits are bold, making it easy to read at a glance when running or timing something. One slight issue noted is the display’s viewing angle – it can have some distortion when viewed extremely off-angle, where the numbers may fade if you tilt it too much twobrokewatchsnobs.com. But straight-on or moderate angles are fine. The Indiglo backlight remains one of Timex’s killer features; owners mention that at night the whole face lights up uniformly, making it effortless to read the time in pitch dark twobrokewatchsnobs.com. Penate did comment that the Indiglo button is small and requires a firm press, calling it “the most disappointing aspect of the watch” that he had to press quite hard to activate it twobrokewatchsnobs.com. However, that might be a quirk of his unit or just a necessary design compromise to maintain water-resistance with small buttons.

When it comes to features, the Atlantis is seen as simple but “feature-packed” for its price twobrokewatchsnobs.com. Owners appreciate the inclusion of a countdown timer and a second time zone in addition to the stopwatch and alarms. These functions make it a handy travel or workout watch. The beeps and alarms are nothing fancy, but they get the job done. Because of its low cost, many users adopt the mentality that this is a great “beater watch” – you can take it camping, swimming, doing yard work, and not worry about babying it. And if it eventually gets destroyed (which takes some doing – many report their Timex digitals have lasted decades), it’s inexpensive to replace. That said, the build quality for the price is commendable. One reviewer even compared the case and strap quality as feeling on par with some Casio G-Shocks he owned twobrokewatchsnobs.com.

On Amazon, the Expedition Atlantis has an average rating around 4.0 out of 5 stars from over a thousand reviews, indicating a solidly positive reception amazon.com. Common pros mentioned by users include its low price, reliability (Timex’s quartz accuracy and long battery life mean it just keeps on ticking), and the nostalgic design that reminds them of the 80s/90s. The Indiglo backlight is frequently praised as one of the best things about Timex watches – it’s no different here. As for cons, some buyers note that the resin watch crystal can scratch more easily than glass (so you may end up with some scuffs after rough use, though those can sometimes be buffed out of acrylic). Also, the 100m water resistance, while generally good, has limits – a few users who attempted diving or very extended submersion found the watch could leak. But for swimming and everyday water contact it’s almost always fine.

Overall, expert and user opinions characterize the Timex Atlantis as “nothing fancy, but super dependable.” It’s the kind of watch you can trust on a hike or throwing in a bag for travel. Its retro looks earned Timex enough love that they even made a special Stranger Things edition of the Atlantis in 2022, where the watch was part of a tie-in with the Netflix show (it even plays the Stranger Things melody as an alarm) prnewswire.com. That speaks to the Atlantis’ iconic status. If you want cutting-edge tech, this isn’t the watch – but for a basic digital with heart and history, the Atlantis gets a lot of affection.

Casio Pro Trek PRW-3500 – Reviews and Impressions

The Casio Pro Trek PRW-3500 has been lauded as “one of the best outdoor watches” in its class by many reviewers, combining G-Shock-like toughness with a full suite of ABC (altimeter-barometer-compass) functions. Since its release, it’s been a favorite among hikers, climbers, and adventure travelers who want functionality without going to a full GPS smartwatch.

Experts point out that the upgrade to 200m water resistance in the PRW-3500 was a big win. A BlogtoWatch noted that bringing the Pro Trek back to 200m made it “a true do-anything watch,” whereas its predecessor was only 100m ablogtowatch.com. This means you don’t have to take it off for water activities – a significant advantage for outdoorsy users who might go from trail to river, or who want to use the compass while kayaking, for example. A Casio press release at the time emphasized that thanks to this high water protection, the PRW-3500 can be worn “during any number of outdoor activities such as surfing, diving, kayaking, and rafting” prnewswire.com.

The sensor performance generally gets positive feedback. Users often test the altimeter and compass on hikes and report that while no wrist altimeter is perfect (since it relies on barometric pressure), the PRW-3500 is quite accurate once calibrated. One REI Co-op reviewer mentioned he double-checked the accuracy of the altimeter, barometer, and compass against other instruments and found “they were right on the money!” rei.com. Another owner, who had a previous generation Pro Trek, noted that the “sensors are much more accurate, and the screen is very clean and easy to read” on the PRW-3500 rei.com. The addition of a pressure trend alarm (to warn of sudden weather changes) is a feature that serious backpackers find useful to catch changes in weather. The auto light function (where tilting your wrist lights up the display) also gets a thumbs-up from those who often have their hands full; it’s a convenient touch for checking the watch without fiddling with buttons rei.com.

Durability-wise, the PRW-3500 is often compared to Casio’s G-Shock line. While the Pro Trek is not marketed as shock-resistant to the same extreme degree, many users claim it’s “just about bombproof” rei.com. People have taken spills on mountains or banged it against rocks and found it survived with barely a scratch. The case design with a slightly raised bezel edge helps protect the mineral glass from direct impacts. The comfortable resin band also means if it snags, it has a little give (and is easily replaceable if ever needed).

One thing to note is that the PRW-3500 is a large watch – some with smaller wrists mention it looks big, but interestingly the lack of weight makes it manageable. The watch’s “compact, sleek case with soft urethane band creates a comfortable fit”, as noted in product literature and user feedback rei.com. However, if you have a wrist under ~6.5 inches, it will definitely look oversized. Many are fine with that given the trade-off in features.

The solar power and atomic time sync are very well-received. Owners love that they “never have to worry about batteries” and that the watch is always accurate to the second without setting rei.com. These quality-of-life features set the Pro Trek apart from simpler digital watches.

Common pros highlighted for the PRW-3500 include its extensive feature set, tough construction, and reliability. It’s a watch you can truly take from urban life to the ends of the earth. In terms of cons, a few come up: the size (as mentioned) can be a downside for everyday wear under tight clothing or for those who dislike large watches. Also, the complexity – some casual users might find the plethora of functions and modes has a learning curve. That said, many reviews counter that by saying “setup was easy and functions were accurate”, even for non-techy people rei.com. The user manual is long, but you don’t necessarily need all functions if you only care about a few. Another minor con: the altimeter, being pressure-based, needs occasional calibration if weather changes – but that’s inherent to all such watches, not unique to Casio.

In the public eye, the Casio Pro Trek line has a strong reputation, and the PRW-3500 upheld it. It’s often recommended on forums when someone asks for a “do-it-all outdoors watch that isn’t a smartwatch.” It even gets cross-shopped with some Suunto and Garmin devices, but those who prefer the simplicity and unlimited battery life of a Casio often pick the Pro Trek. With a solid 4+ star rating on retailer sites and many positive testimonials, the PRW-3500 is seen as a dependable companion for adventure. As one enthusiastic reviewer put it: “Bottom line, [it’s] great value for the price – so many features… I’m on board, you should be too!” rei.com.

Price and Availability

One major differentiator between these three models is price – they span from very affordable to mid-range – as well as current availability on the market.

• Seiko Prospex “Arnie” SNJ025: The SNJ025 had an original manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $525.00 seikowatches.com. Street prices varied; it often could be found in the $400–$500 range when it was widely available new. Since it’s a Seiko Prospex, it was sold through Seiko authorized dealers, department stores, and online watch retailers. As of 2025, however, Seiko has discontinued the SNJ025 model teddybaldassarre.com. This means brand-new stock is drying up. You may still find new-old-stock pieces at some retailers or on sites like Amazon, but once those are gone, the watch will only be available secondhand. On Amazon, some third-party sellers currently list the Arnie (often at a premium now due to scarcity). As a result, the price can fluctuate. If you’re interested in one, it’s wise to act sooner rather than later, or be prepared to hunt forums and auction sites. Given its discontinuation, we might even see prices creep up on the secondary market if it gains “collector” status like the original Arnie did teddybaldassarre.com teddybaldassarre.com. For reference, at the time of writing, you might find a used SNJ025 in good condition for around $300–$400. Limited edition variants (like the “Urban Safari” SNJ029/SNJ031) might also be options, usually in the same price ballpark (their MSRP was around $525 as well).
• Timex Expedition Atlantis (T5K463): The Atlantis is extremely budget-friendly. Its retail price is around $40–$50 (Timex’s own site and most retailers list it in this range). In practice, it’s often on sale or available for even less – some have picked it up for as low as $30. Two Broke Watch Snobs noted the typical price range is $35–$60 depending on sales twobrokewatchsnobs.com. This model is widely available: you can get it on Amazon (where it’s frequently one of the “#1 Best Seller” in men’s sports watches), big-box stores, Timex’s official website, and many outdoor retailers. With over 1,000 Amazon ratings, it’s clearly a popular seller amazon.com. Timex has kept it in production for years and there’s no sign of it being discontinued – in fact, they keep giving it attention through special editions (e.g. the Stranger Things edition retailed at $89 in 2022 due to the collaboration, but the core watch was the same Atlantis) prnewswire.com prnewswire.com. Current availability (2025) is strong; you can get one shipped Prime on Amazon or pick one up at your local Walmart/Target in many cases. In short, the Atlantis is the least expensive and easiest to find of the trio. It’s a great value, though of course you’re getting a basic watch – which is fine for the cost.
• Casio Pro Trek PRW-3500-1: The Pro Trek PRW-3500 is a mid-range to upper-mid-range digital watch. Its original MSRP was $300 for the resin-band version (black with silver bezel) prnewswire.com. The orange variant was a bit more, around $320, and the titanium bracelet version was significantly higher (MSRP $450) prnewswire.com. Nowadays, the street price for the PRW-3500 on the resin strap has often been around $200–$250 new. Retailers like Amazon, REI, or watch sellers sometimes discount it below list. For instance, it’s not uncommon to see it at $220 on Amazon. On the secondhand market, you might find it for $150–$200 depending on condition. The PRW-3500 has been out since 2015, but it is still actively sold as of 2025. Casio typically continues manufacturing a Pro Trek model for quite a while if it remains popular, even as they introduce newer models. You can buy the PRW-3500-1 directly from Casio’s website or from outdoor gear stores (REI stocked it, for example). Given that Casio has launched newer Pro Treks, the PRW-3500 isn’t the newest kid on the block, but it’s proven and often retailers keep it as a reliable option. Also, some variants like the PRW-3510 (with an STN display and negative screen) might be sold alongside it, sometimes at slightly different price points (the PRW-3510Y-8 typically costs a bit more due to the upgraded display and included silicone strap) watchuseek.com reddit.com. In summary, expect roughly $200-ish for a new PRW-3500 if you shop around, and it’s readily available online. It offers a lot of capability for the price, often cited as one of the best value ABC watches when on sale.

In terms of value, the Timex obviously wins on sheer low cost. The Casio, while around 4–5 times more expensive than the Timex, provides significantly more technology (sensors, solar, radio sync) which many find worth it for serious use. The Seiko is the priciest and is a different proposition – you’re paying for the Seiko build quality, dive rating, and that unique analog-digital style (and perhaps a bit for the “cool factor” of the Arnie legacy). With it now being discontinued, it’s hard to compare value directly, but at ~$500 it sat at a premium range partly due to being a specialty Prospex model. Each buyer will weigh these factors differently depending on whether they prioritize budget, features, or brand/diving pedigree.

Pros and Cons of Each Model

To summarize, here are the key pros and cons of the Seiko SNJ025, Timex Atlantis, and Casio PRW-3500:

Seiko Prospex “Arnie” SNJ025

• Pros:
  • Tough Dive-Watch Build: 200m water resistant, ISO-certified dive watch with screw-down crown and pushers hodinkee.com. Sturdy stainless steel case with protective shroud for extra durability teddybaldassarre.com. Built to handle diving, swimming, and harsh treatment.
  • Solar Powered: No battery changes needed – charges from any light and runs for months seikowatches.com. Has a power reserve indicator and power-save mode to extend time between charges seikowatches.com.
  • Analog-Digital Utility: Combines the instant readability of analog hands (with excellent LumiBrite lume) with the functionality of digital features (stopwatch, alarm, dual time, calendar) hodinkee.com. It’s versatile for both everyday time-telling and timing tasks.
  • Iconic Design & History: Classic “Arnie” looks that appeal to watch enthusiasts and movie fans alike. Its large, bold style and 80s action-film pedigree make it a great conversation piece and a cool part of Seiko’s heritage hodinkee.com.
  • Comfortable on Wrist: Despite the big size, it wears well – relatively light for its bulk (about 114g) and the 22mm silicone strap is soft and flexible hodinkee.com. Many find it comfortable for all-day wear, as the case hugs the wrist nicely.
• Cons:
  • Bulky Size: This watch is undeniably large (47.8mm wide, 14mm+ thick) hodinkee.com. On small wrists it can look oversized, and it’s a watch you’ll notice on your arm. Those who prefer slim or discreet watches will likely find it too chunky, especially under tight sleeves.
  • Limited Digital Display: The LCD window is quite small, which means limited info at one time. You often have to cycle through modes to see what you need, and reading it while in the middle of an activity (or in low light without pressing the light) can be challenging hodinkee.com hodinkee.com. For example, using the stopwatch or alarm requires a bit of squinting compared to a full digital watch.
  • No Advanced Sensors: Unlike the Casio, the SNJ025 has no compass, altimeter, etc. It sticks to basic timekeeping functions. So it’s not as feature-rich for outdoor data, which some might expect given its “adventure” watch marketing.
  • Pricey (and Discontinued): With an MSRP over $500, it’s expensive for a quartz watch. You’re partly paying for the Prospex build and unique design. Now that it’s discontinued, prices could even go up. It’s not the most budget-friendly option, especially compared to the other two watches here.
  • Screw-Down Pushers Convenience: While great for water resistance, the screw-locking pushers mean you have to unscrew them to use digital functions. This can be inconvenient if you frequently start/stop the stopwatch or set alarms. There’s also the risk of forgetting to screw them back down, which could compromise water resistance hodinkee.com.

Timex Expedition Atlantis (T5K463)

• Pros:
  • Very Affordable: Outstanding value for money – usually under $50 twobrokewatchsnobs.com. You get a reliable timepiece with many functions for a fraction of what the other watches cost. Great as a starter watch or backup beater watch.
  • Lightweight & Comfortable: Only ~30 grams with a 40mm case that’s just 10mm thick twobrokewatchsnobs.com twobrokewatchsnobs.com. You hardly notice it on your wrist, making it ideal for active use. The resin strap is soft and doesn’t cause irritation; it also has plenty of adjustment holes to fit various wrist sizes twobrokewatchsnobs.com.
  • Easy to Use: Simple interface with labeled buttons. Switching modes (time, chrono, timer, alarm) is straightforward. Setting the time or alarm is intuitive – Timex has used similar module layouts for years. It’s a no-fuss watch that almost anyone can operate without cracking a manual.
  • INDIGLO Backlight: Timex’s Indiglo is a standout feature. At night, one button press makes the entire screen glow uniformly, so you can read everything easily twobrokewatchsnobs.com. It’s great for camping in the dark or checking time in a dark room without fumbling.
  • Decent Water Resistance: 100m water resistant rating means it handles daily water exposure and even swimming with ease twobrokewatchsnobs.com. You don’t have to worry about rain, splashes, or showering. It’s also survived many fishing trips and shallow snorkeling sessions as per user reports.
• Cons:
  • Basic Build Materials: The case is resin (plastic) and the crystal is acrylic. While that keeps it light, it’s not as durable as stainless steel or mineral glass. The acrylic crystal can scratch relatively easily with rough use (though small scratches can be polished out to some extent). The watch can also show wear over time (fading print on the bezel, etc.) – not a huge deal at this price point, but it’s not a watch built to last decades in harsh conditions like a full metal watch would be.
  • No Advanced Features: It’s a straightforward timekeeper – no solar power, no radio syncing, no sensors. It runs on a battery you’ll need to replace every 5-7 years. For most people that’s fine, but compared to the Casio, it’s much less feature-rich. Think of it as an excellent digital watch, just not a multi-tool.
  • Small Buttons: The four corner buttons are on the smaller side and can be a bit stiff. As one reviewer noted, you may have to press a bit hard to engage them, especially the Indiglo light button twobrokewatchsnobs.com. With gloves on, pressing them is quite difficult. So the ergonomics aren’t as optimized as on larger watches.
  • Lower Water Resistance than Dive Watches: 100m is solid for most, but it’s not a watch for actual scuba diving (the other two can handle that). Also, it lacks screw-down crowns/buttons, so extreme water pressure or accidental button presses underwater could pose a risk. For surface swimming and snorkeling it’s fine, but diving deeper than ~10m with it is not recommended by Timex.
  • Styling Not for Everyone: The Atlantis has a deliberately retro, plastic look. While many love the nostalgia, others might find it a bit toy-like or not “dressy” enough even for casual wear. It really embraces the 90s aesthetic, which might not suit all modern preferences if you’re looking for something more subdued or high-tech looking.

Casio Pro Trek PRW-3500-1

• Pros:
  • Rich Feature Set (ABC Functions): It’s like a Swiss army knife on the wrist. You get a digital compass, altimeter, barometer, thermometer, plus sunrise/sunset info and all the timers/alarms/world time you’d expect rei.com casiofanmag.com. This is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts – you can navigate, track weather changes, and log altitude gains on hikes, all with one device.
  • Solar + Atomic – Low Maintenance: The Tough Solar means as long as it sees light occasionally, you won’t need to replace batteries. It even charges in indoor light. And the Multi-Band 6 atomic timekeeping means it sets itself to the correct time daily prnewswire.com prnewswire.com. You rarely, if ever, have to manually set this watch. It’s extremely convenient to just grab and go, knowing it’s charged and accurate.
  • High Durability: 200m water resistance and Casio’s renowned build quality make it ready for abuse. It’s shock-resistant in practical terms (hunters, military personnel, etc. have worn Pro Treks and G-Shocks through rough activities with success). The large buttons and overall construction are made for outdoor use – it’s proven to be able to handle cold, heat, mud, and water. Users have called it “bombproof” after seeing how well it survives heavy use rei.com.
  • Great Legibility for a Digital: The display is large and relatively uncluttered given how much info it can show. Casio uses a good font size for the main time display, and the electroluminescent “Super Illuminator” LED backlight is powerful for night viewing rei.com. Plus, the auto-light-on tilt feature means you don’t even have to press a button in the dark. The later PRW-3510 variant improved it further with a sharper STN LCD, indicating Casio’s commitment to readability watchuseek.com.
  • All-Condition Operation: This watch is built for extremes. It works in low temperatures (-10°C/14°F) casiofanmag.com, so high-altitude mountaineering or skiing is fair game. The buttons are designed to be used with gloves or wet hands prnewswire.com. The barometer even has a storm alarm to alert you of sudden pressure drops. It’s a trusty companion whether you’re in a desert, jungle, or on a mountain.
• Cons:
  • Very Large on Wrist: With a ~53mm case, it’s a big watch and will look and feel oversized for some, especially those with slender wrists. It can get caught on backpack straps or jacket cuffs due to its bulk. If you’re not used to large sport watches, the PRW-3500 might feel cumbersome as a daily wear.
  • Complexity: The multitude of modes and functions means a thicker manual and a learning curve. It’s not as immediately intuitive as a simple watch; you might need to memorize some button combinations (though the core functions are one-button access, which helps). For techies this is fun, but for others it might be overkill – some owners admit they don’t use half the features regularly.
  • Digital-Only Display: While it’s very informative, some people prefer analog hands for quick time-telling. The PRW-3500’s all-digital display can be a bit hard to read at certain angles or bright glare (though the anti-glare coating on the mineral glass helps). In other words, it doesn’t have the at-a-glance clarity of an analog hand if you’re in motion – you have to actually read the numbers. This is a minor issue and common to all digital watches, usually outweighed by the data benefits.
  • Style and Versatility: The Pro Trek’s look is casual/sporty only. It’s not going to double as a dress watch or even a business casual watch in most cases. It’s a pure tool watch, so if you want one watch for all occasions, this might not be it. (By contrast, the Seiko Arnie, while also huge, at least has an analog dial that can pass off as a quirky conversation piece in some social settings. The Casio screams “tech watch”.)
  • Pricey Compared to Basic Digitals: Although good value for its tech, around $200+ can be a lot if you won’t use the sensors. For someone who just needs a durable watch with a timer, the Pro Trek could be overkill when cheaper options exist. Essentially, you’re paying extra for features that are fantastic for adventurers but unnecessary for couch-to-fridge expeditions.

Each watch has its niche: the Seiko SNJ025 is great for dive-watch enthusiasts and those wanting a blend of analog style with some digital convenience, the Timex Atlantis is perfect for budget-conscious buyers who want a reliable everyday digital (or a nostalgic second watch), and the Casio PRW-3500 is ideal for outdoor adventurers and gadget lovers who will utilize its many capabilities.

Suitable Use Cases

Given their differing strengths, each of these watches shines in certain scenarios:

• Seiko “Arnie” SNJ025 – Best For: Diving and Water Sports, as well as collectors and everyday wear with a rugged flair. This watch meets ISO standards for scuba diving, so it’s perfectly at home on a dive boat or snorkeling in the tropics hodinkee.com. The luminous analog dial and unidirectional bezel are classic dive features, meaning you can use it to time dives or laps in a pool easily. It’s also a great watch for outdoor adventures like hiking or camping, since it’s tough and solar-powered (no worry about the battery dying mid-trip). While it doesn’t have compass/altimeter, many outdoorsy folks still like a reliable analog-digital that can take abuse – the Arnie has been worn to Mount Everest and polar expeditions in its original form, which speaks to its durability teddybaldassarre.com. The SNJ025’s bold look makes it suitable for tactical or military use as well, where a soldier might appreciate the analog time with a quick-glance digital secondary time zone or chrono (and its stealthy muted coloring doesn’t attract attention). And for daily wear, surprisingly, the Arnie can be an everyday “beater” watch for those who love its style – it adds a tough-guy statement to casual outfits and can certainly handle knocks, rain, and sweat from a day’s work or workout. It’s probably not going under a dress shirt cuff or to a black-tie event, but it’s great for weekend wear, tool watch purposes, and making a bit of a statement that you’re ready for action.
• Timex Expedition Atlantis – Best For: Everyday Casual Wear, Fitness and Recreation, and Budget Outdoor Use. The Atlantis is so affordable and comfortable that it’s ideal as a daily watch for work or play. It’s a top choice for people in active jobs (like landscapers, mechanics, or anyone who needs a rugged timepiece but doesn’t want to risk an expensive watch). Since it has countdown timer and alarms, it’s useful for workouts, running, and timing intervals – many runners use Timex Ironman/Expedition series watches for training because of their simple and reliable chronographs. The 100m water resistance and Indiglo make it a good pick for camping, fishing, and traveling, too. If you’re backpacking through places and don’t want to attract thieves with a fancy watch, the Timex won’t draw attention and can take a beating. It’s also a reliable backup watch to throw in your bag (the battery will last years, so it can just sit and still be ready when needed). Additionally, the Atlantis has found a niche as a retro fashion statement – the 80s revival trend means some folks wear it for the “cool retro digital” vibe, much like Casio F-91Ws or vintage digitals. And for those in the military or scouting, the Atlantis’ combination of durability, multiple time zones, and alarm makes it a handy, inexpensive tool (though G-Shocks are more commonly issued, a Timex is sometimes seen on soldiers who prefer its flat profile and silent vibration alarm in some models). Essentially, the Atlantis fits well in any scenario where you need a reliable timekeeper that you can set and forget, without worrying about cost or tough conditions.
• Casio Pro Trek PRW-3500 – Best For: Serious Outdoor Activities and Adventure Travel, as well as Navigation and Expedition Use. This watch was practically made for hikers, backpackers, climbers, skiers, and explorers. Going on a multi-day mountain trek? The PRW-3500 gives you your altitude, can log your ascent, warn you of weather changes via barometer, and wake you up with its alarm for an alpine start. Heading out to do some orienteering or hunting? The digital compass and sunrise/sunset times come in handy for navigation and planning. It’s also a great sailing or kayaking watch, since it’s waterproof and the compass helps on the water; plus, the barometer can indicate if a storm is coming. The fact you don’t need to charge it or replace batteries is crucial for long expeditions or remote travel – solar power keeps it running, and the atomic time sync means if you’re within range of a signal, you’ll always have accurate time (useful for coordinating with team members or radio check-ins on expeditions). The PRW-3500 is also often used in everyday wear by tech aficionados or first responders. For example, some firefighters, park rangers, or search-and-rescue personnel wear Pro Treks because they appreciate having compass and barometer on wrist during operations. It can also be a great travel watch for international trips – world time function and no battery worries, plus temperature readings if you’re curious about climate. It’s not aimed at formal settings, but many will swap to a different watch for those occasions. If your day might include anything from a dip in a river to a hike up a hill, the Pro Trek is the one you grab. It’s effectively a wrist-mounted survival tool, and is best used by those who will actually take advantage of its robust capabilities.

Of course, there’s overlap: you can certainly dive with the Casio (200m WR, though lacking a bezel) or hike with the Seiko (rugged and solar, just bring a separate compass). And nothing stops you from wearing the Timex on a mountain (some do, valuing its simplicity). But each has a domain where it excels in both features and practicality.

Recent News and Upcoming Alternatives

Staying up-to-date, here are some recent developments and alternatives in the same category (outdoor/tactical watches) from Seiko, Timex, and Casio:

• Seiko Prospex and Alternatives: As mentioned, Seiko discontinued the SNJ025 “Arnie” in 2025 teddybaldassarre.com, marking the end of its production run. However, Seiko did release a few variants during its life. The “Urban Safari” Arnie (SNJ029 and SNJ031) came out in a khaki tan and an olive green scheme, appealing to those who wanted a military or safari colorway. Those models retained the same specs (solar H851 movement, etc.) but offered fresh aesthetics and were quite popular – Seiko even noted they were “blockbuster successes” in some markets fratellowatches.com. Looking ahead, Seiko hasn’t announced a direct replacement for the Arnie yet. But in late 2023 and 2024, Seiko has focused on its mechanical Prospex line (divers like the “Turtle”, “Samurai”, etc.) and some newer solar analog dive watches. One upcoming watch in the same spirit could be the Seiko Digi-Tuna reissues or the Fieldmaster series. In the past, Seiko had a “Fieldmaster” line of ana-digi and digital watches for field use – there are rumors that Seiko might revive some form of that for the modern market given the interest in vintage reissues. For now, fans of the Arnie style who missed out might look at the secondary market or consider the Citizen JP2000-08E (aka Citizen Aqualand) which is another analog-digital dive watch legend – though that one has a depth sensor instead of digital chrono, and it’s not solar. It’s worth noting that aside from the Arnie, Seiko doesn’t have other digital or sensor-laden watches in its current catalog; the brand sticks mostly to analog. So if you want a Seiko for outdoor use now, Prospex offers many mechanical or solar analog divers and “Land” series watches (some with compass bezels, etc., but not electronic sensors). And of course, Seiko’s sister brand Casio covers the digital realm thoroughly – Casio being under the same conglomerate in a way means Seiko seems content leaving digital gadgetry mostly to Casio.
• Timex Expedition and New Releases: Timex has been leveraging nostalgia and durability in equal measure. In 2022, Timex released the Stranger Things collaboration which included the Atlantis, bringing a lot of attention back to this model prnewswire.com. More recently, Timex has launched the Expedition North collection. Expedition North is a higher-end sub-line focused on outdoor durability and sustainability: for example, Expedition North Field Mechanical and Solar watches with stainless steel or titanium cases, sapphire crystals, and solar movements or hand-wound mechanical movements benswatchclub.com. These are more traditional analog field watches (no digital functions), but they show Timex’s commitment to the outdoor theme. In the digital space, Timex has also produced shock-resistant watches like the Timex Command series. The Command (released around 2018 and updated in 2021 with the Command Encounter) is a large 54mm rugged digital watch with 100m or 200m water resistance and features like vibration alarms and hydration timers watchesyoucanafford.com nywatchstore.com. It’s Timex’s answer to Casio’s G-Shock – not as famous as G-Shock, but an interesting option if you want a big Timex. Timex also continues the Ironman series for athletes, some of which now have connected features (like the Timex Ironman R300 GPS which is more of a smartwatch). For a straight-up outdoor digital, though, the Atlantis remains a staple for the brand. We haven’t seen a new model exactly like the Atlantis from Timex recently (since it ain’t broke, no need to fix it). However, if you like the Atlantis, you might also check out the Timex T-Series Atlantis or the classic Timex Ironman Triathlon watches, which share a lot of functionality with slightly different styling. In summary, recent Timex news is that they’re bridging old and new – reviving cult classics for pop culture (like Stranger Things Atlantis) and introducing sturdier analog field watches for enthusiasts. So whether you want that vintage digital feel or a modern field watch, Timex has something fresh to offer.
• Casio Pro Trek and G-Shock Updates: Casio has been very active in the outdoor watch arena. In the Pro Trek line, a notable recent release was the Casio Pro Trek PRW-61 in 2022, which is essentially a successor concept to the PRW-3500 in terms of purpose. The PRW-61’s claim to fame is its eco-friendly bio-based resin construction – it’s the first Casio watch to use materials from castor seeds and corn for the case, band, and caseback casio.com. This model continues Casio’s push for sustainability while maintaining triple sensor, solar, and atomic features. It has 100m water resistance (like the smaller PRW-30 series) rather than 200m, focusing more on trekking than diving. For those wanting the latest and greatest Pro Trek, Casio also released the Pro Trek PRW-6600 and PRW-50 series in recent years, which integrate analog hands with digital displays (for those who want a hybrid style similar to how the Seiko is analog-digital, but with Casio’s sensors). On the purely digital front, Casio introduced the PRW-3510 (as mentioned) which is basically the PRW-3500 with a superior STN LCD and usually a negative display option watchuseek.com. Casio has also experimented with smartwatch tech in outdoor watches: the Pro Trek Smart WSD series (WSD-F20, WSD-F30 etc.) were Wear OS smartwatch versions of Pro Treks – very cool but with limited battery life, catering to a different market. Meanwhile, the G-Shock line (Casio’s ultra-rugged sibling to Pro Trek) has seen major innovations: for example, the G-Shock Rangeman GPR-B1000 is a solar-assisted GPS navigation watch (with maps) – essentially a super-tough survival smartwatch. G-Shock also released models like the Mudmaster GGW1000 and Gravitymaster series with enhanced sensor sets and even Bluetooth connectivity to phone apps for data logging. However, those tend to be more expensive and specialized. If someone likes the idea of the PRW-3500 but wants even more shock resistance, they might consider the G-Shock Rangeman GW-9400, which has triple sensor (compass, alt, barometer) and is a proven model in the G-Shock Master of G series – that’s a direct alternative often cited (it lacks atomic in some versions, but many variants have it). A completely new Casio model in late 2023 is the G-Shock Mudman GW-9500, which is a modern take on the Mudman with solar and dual sensors; not as feature-rich as Pro Trek, but extremely tough and relatively affordable. Casio’s strategy seems to be: continue offering a spectrum from pure analog tough watches to high-end digital sensor watches. The Pro Trek PRW-3500 remains a sweet spot for many because of its balance of features and price. But if you want smaller, Casio now has the Pro Trek PRW-3100/3500 “climber line” which are slimmer on the wrist (though the PRW-3500 itself was considered the larger “diver capable” one).

In essence, Seiko’s latest offerings in this realm lean toward reviving classics and focusing on robust analog designs, Timex is blending nostalgia with new rugged analogs, and Casio is pushing technology forward in both Pro Trek and G-Shock lines, including sustainability and connectivity. There’s a healthy ecosystem of choices: from the Arnie reissue capturing the past, to Timex giving us affordable durability, to Casio delivering cutting-edge outdoor tech.

If you’re in the market now, aside from our three main watches, you might also consider the Citizen Promaster Tough (if you want analog toughness), the Suunto Core (a non-GPS ABC watch, more minimalist design), or Garmin Instinct 2 (if you decide to go the GPS smartwatch route for outdoors). But those stray beyond the “same category” as our trio. Within the brands: a new Seiko or Timex won’t offer sensor tech, and a new Casio might be a different size or price, but there’s plenty to explore depending on your needs.

Conclusion

In comparing the Seiko Prospex “Arnie” SNJ025, Timex Expedition Atlantis, and Casio Pro Trek PRW-3500-1, it’s clear that each watch brings something unique to the table. The Seiko “Arnie” is a love letter to adventure cinema and dive watch heritage – it merges analog and digital in a solar-powered, beefy package that’s as at home underwater as it is in a jungle (or just your backyard pool) hodinkee.com hodinkee.com. The Timex Atlantis proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune for reliability – it’s a lightweight classic that handles daily duties and outdoor fun without breaking a sweat or the bank twobrokewatchsnobs.com twobrokewatchsnobs.com. And the Casio PRW-3500 stands out as a true outdoor toolkit, ready to guide you with compass bearings, weather trends, and world-time precision, all while surviving environments that would kill lesser gadgets prnewswire.com prnewswire.com.

Choosing between them comes down to your priorities and use case. If you want a watch that exudes toughness and nostalgia and can dive deep, the Seiko SNJ025 is a strong contender – especially for Seiko fans and those who appreciate analog style with a dash of digital convenience. If you need an everyday companion or a training partner that’s simple, durable, and won’t make you fret over scratches, the Timex Atlantis is almost unbeatable in value, a true “takes a licking and keeps on ticking” piece. And if you’re an outdoor enthusiast or tech lover who wants as much functionality on your wrist as possible (and solar/atomic convenience), the Casio Pro Trek PRW-3500 is likely your best friend in this lineup.

All three watches have proven themselves in the field and have dedicated followings. There’s even a case to own more than one: use the Casio on your epic hikes, the Seiko on your dives or weekends, and the Timex for rough-and-tumble daily wear or travel. In 2025, the world of outdoor watches is thriving with new releases and tributes to classics, but these three models remain relevant benchmarks for their categories – the Diver Hybrid, the Affordable Digital, and the Sensor-packed ABC.

Ultimately, whether you’re “getting to the chopper” in a jungle, timing your laps at the gym, or summiting a peak, there’s a watch in this trio that fits the mission. And whichever you choose, you’ll be strapping on a piece of gear that’s built to go the distance. As the saying goes, the best watch is the one on your wrist when you need it – and any of these, in their respective arenas, won’t let you down.

Sources:

• Seiko Prospex SNJ025 “Arnie” official specifications seikowatches.com seikowatches.com; Hodinkee hands-on review by J. Stacey (2020) hodinkee.com hodinkee.com; Teddy Baldassarre blog on Seiko Arnie history teddybaldassarre.com teddybaldassarre.com; HiConsumption SNJ025 overview hodinkee.com.
• Timex Expedition Atlantis specs and review (Two Broke Watch Snobs, 2024) twobrokewatchsnobs.com twobrokewatchsnobs.com twobrokewatchsnobs.com; Timex press release on Stranger Things Atlantis edition (2022) prnewswire.com prnewswire.com; Amazon listing and customer feedback amazon.com.
• Casio Pro Trek PRW-3500 features (Casio press release, Baselworld 2015) prnewswire.com prnewswire.com prnewswire.com; REI product description and user reviews rei.com rei.com rei.com; Casio fan spec table (casiofanmag) casiofanmag.com casiofanmag.com; G-Central news on PRW-3510 STN display watchuseek.com.
• Recent watch news: Casio PRW-61 bio-resin introduction casio.com; Hodinkee coverage of Seiko “Safarnies” SNJ029/031 hodinkee.com fratellowatches.com; Timex Expedition North series mention (Ben’s Watch Club) benswatchclub.com; Timex Command details watchesyoucanafford.com nywatchstore.com.