The San Martin SN007-G-B has gained a reputation as one of the most refined microbrand dive watches in its price range. With a 39mm stainless steel case, sapphire crystal, ceramic bezel, and a reliable automatic movement, it’s packed with features often found in much more expensive watches. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s take an objective look.

First Impressions and Pictures

Right out of the box, the SN007-G-B makes a statement. Its 39mm case size is versatile—large enough to hold presence on the wrist but restrained enough for daily wear. Whether you’re dressing up or heading out for an adventure, the proportions feel just right. The finishing is where San Martin continues to impress. The brushing on the case is clean and sharp, with polished chamfers that add a touch of elegance without being flashy. The enamel dial options give the watch a deep, glossy character, creating visual interest in different lighting conditions. But before going deeper in to the details, let’s first of all have a look at the specifications.

Specifications

Watch Ratings

85/100

Design & Build Quality

Very good

The design of the SN007-G-B walks the line between vintage inspiration and modern execution. The case is compact and wearable for most wrist sizes, with excellent brushing and polished chamfered edges that elevate its aesthetic. The enamel dial variants are particularly striking, with a rich, glossy finish that feels more premium than expected at this price point.

Pros

• Excellent case finishing for the price
• Great proportions for both casual and dress use
• Enamel dial offers depth and refinement

Cons

• While elegant, the design is clearly derivative of classic dive watches (especially vintage Submariner styles), which may not appeal to those looking for originality
• The San Martin logo is polarizing—some prefer their older hex logo, while others find the new branding underwhelming

72/100

Movement & Timekeeping

Good

The watch is powered by the Seiko NH35, a tried-and-tested automatic movement used by many microbrands. It’s not the most accurate out of the box, with a stated accuracy of -20 to +40 seconds per day, though many SN007-G-B units are reported to perform better than that.

Pros

• Reliable, low-maintenance movement
• Hacking and hand-winding supported
• Easy to service or replace

Cons

• Not the most accurate movement at this price
• Lacks the smooth sweep of higher-end calibers (21,600 bph rather than 28,800 bph)
• Rotor noise can be noticeable in quiet settings

84/100

Bezel & Crystal

Good

The ceramic bezel insert is a highlight—it’s glossy, scratch-resistant, and well-aligned. The 120-click action feels solid and precise, though a few users have noted slight backplay or stiffness, which can vary between units. The sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating performs well in bright lighting, keeping reflections minimal and clarity high.

Pros

• High-end materials typically found in more expensive watches
• Solid bezel feel and good grip
• Excellent scratch resistance

Cons

• Bezel action may feel stiff or slightly uneven on some models
• AR coating is not as effective as on higher-end timepieces

88/100

Lume & Legibility

Very good

The SLN C3 lume is generously applied and provides a strong, long-lasting glow. This makes the watch easy to read in dark environments or underwater.

Pros

• Bright and long-lasting lume
• Good low-light performance

Cons

• Some lume plots may show slight inconsistency upon close inspection
• Lume color (green) may not appeal to everyone compared to the blue variants found in other watches

82/100

Bracelet & Comfort

Good

Buyers can choose between a stainless steel bracelet and an FKM rubber strap. The bracelet is solid and well-machined, featuring a milled clasp and solid end links. The rubber strap is soft and comfortable, ideal for summer or sports use.

Pros

• High-quality materials
• Versatile strap options
• Comfortable on smaller wrists due to the 39mm case

Cons

• Bracelet clasp is functional but lacks fine micro-adjustment
• The end links can feel a bit stiff initially
• Strap changes require careful handling due to tight tolerances

Verdict and overall Score

The San Martin SN007-G-B is a strong contender in the crowded dive watch market, especially among microbrands. It offers premium features—ceramic bezel, sapphire crystal, 200m water resistance, and solid construction—for a reasonable price. That said, it’s not without compromises. The NH35 movement, while reliable, isn’t a precision powerhouse. The branding and derivative design may not appeal to purists or those seeking something more original.

85/100

Watch Score

Very good