Christopher Ward The Twelve 36vsFormex Essence ThirtyNine

lug2lug doesn't sell watches. Buy links open the brand's or seller's own site. Some links are affiliate links: lug2lug may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Disclosures
Measurements
Catalog photos are all shot at the same flattering size. These aren't: every case below shares one millimeter scale.

The Twelve 36

Essence ThirtyNine
Diameter
36mm
39mm
Lug-to-Lug
40.8mm
lowest
45mm
Thickness
9.9mm
lowest
10mm
Water Resistance
100m
100m
Power Reserve
38h
41h
highest
MSRP
$1,495
lowest
$2,390
Movement
Sellita SW200-1
Sellita SW200-1
Case
6 specsCrystal & Dial
2 specsMovement
3 specsPricing
1 specsReviews
Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.
Owners widely appreciate the Christopher Ward The Twelve 36 for its dial, movement, and integrated bracelet, noting it fits perfectly on smaller wrists. Some find the watch heavy at 151 grams on the bracelet, though others consider the 36mm case size a cleaner and more wearable iteration of the design. The bracelet tapers aggressively, contributing to an elegant feel and making the watch wear smaller than its 36mm case might suggest. One owner found the finishing not the best but acceptable for the price, while another dislikes the dial texture and desires a chronometer-grade option. On balance, owners rate the Christopher Ward The Twelve 36 highly for its refined wearability and design on smaller wrists, despite some reservations about weight and finishing.
The integrated bracelet and 36mm sizing are cited as key strengths. Water resistance was mentioned as a potential drawback.
The Formex Essence ThirtyNine is widely praised for its build quality and value, featuring a patented case suspension system for comfort and protection. Reviewers note its 39mm case with a 10mm thickness and 45mm lug-to-lug distance, housing a COSC-certified Sellita SW200-1 movement. It includes a tool-free strap quick-release system and a patented micro-adjusting bracelet for comfort, with pricing around $1,280-$1,390. One minor inconvenience noted is the clasp's specific closing order. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the Formex Essence ThirtyNine highly for its comfortable wearability and excellent value proposition.
The case suspension system enhances comfort and the COSC-certified movement is a strong feature. The bracelet exhibits noticeable rattle. Reviewers disagreed on the ideal case size, with some preferring the 39mm and others the 41mm.
Similar watches
Matched to the watches above on size, movement, style and price, microbrands first. Open any one to dig in.
Also compared
Comparisons nearby in the catalog: alternatives to the watches above paired against the matchup.










