I have been considering the 2018 version for a while and your excellent comparison has helped me to come to a decision. Both versions would not be out of place on my wrist, but the 2018 model has that classic blend of style and functionality that I prefer. And of course it has the red seconds hand and cross wires which finish the look so well. I am now subscribed !
Nice comparison, but what you, and most others, forget to point out is two major differences between these two versions of the DS PH200M: 1. The 2018 version with Hesalite crystal etc. has the rubber suspended movement that is one of the fundamental properties of the DS system. The 2020 version does not. 2. A Hesalite crystal (acrylic) is of course less scratch resistant, but on the other hand it is much more shatterproof. A sapphire crystal will break into "a million pieces" when hit too hard. A Hesalite crystal will often just get a crack, but otherwise keep together and still protect the mechanics of the watch. A scratched Hesalite crystal can easily be polished. Because of this the 2018 version is a much tougher and durable watch. A real DS toolwatch, like the original. That's why I have the 2018 version.
I will go for the 2018 one. I do prefer it to be more “rough” than the 2020 model. Also love the packaging. The 2020 model comes to close to my rado captain cook also.
The domed crystal in the 2018 model does it for me. It speaks of a retro- vintage style perfected in a modern watch when all manufacturers are shifting to sapphire.
2018 is just soooo much better looking. They drop the crown with new version. That dome bezel and with inner ring not it. New ds ph500 is awesome too , but its soooooo thickk.
The 2018 red second hand model looks so much better. But it has an acrylic crystal. The 2020 with its fake vintage look, beige fake patina accents, the shiny, glossy bezel insert is too blingy and tiresome. But it has sapphire, and a better movement. I would take the 2018 with the newer movement, the brushed case, the stark, timeless dial, sapphire
In Certina sanno molto bene che gli appassionati vogliono la tartaruga sul fondello...ce da chiedersi il motivo di tale scelta, possiamo solo immaginare