I hear you. It reminded me of 5513 super dome. I actually like it.
My Heuer Fragment and Longines Legend Diver have similar “glass box” sapphire.
You pay for 12 indices, BP throws in a few extra. Plus 50% extra date window. More is better, no?!
I suspect the shot angle exaggerated distortion. I won’t have the option of seeing it in person. The Longines LD glass box is superb at $2k. My money on BP at least matches its peer at the price bracket they compete in. I agreed, the distortion is pronounced at angles.
Here is its sibling, the Barakuda, same glass box.
I ordered one. The Hodinkee Mil-spec opened my eyes to the 40mm FF and the brand. The mil-spec is super awesome in the flesh and it was my favorite purchase of 2020. While I agree with other commenters that the Mil-spec is nicer, I think this watch is awesome, too, and different enough to justify both. I will reserve all final judgement until I see it in person.