Christopher Ward The Twelve MidnightvsFormex Essence ThirtyNine
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Measurements
Catalog photos are all shot at the same flattering size. These aren't: every case below shares one millimeter scale.
The Twelve Midnight
Essence ThirtyNine
Diameter
38mm
39mm
Lug-to-Lug
43.3mm
lowest
45mm
Thickness
9.9mm
lowest
10mm
Water Resistance
100m
100m
Power Reserve
38h
41h
highest
MSRP
$1,210
lowest
$2,390
Movement
Sellita SW200-1
Sellita SW200-1
Case
6 specsCrystal & Dial
2 specsMovement
4 specsPricing
1 specsReviews
Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.
Owners and reviewers widely praise Christopher Ward The Twelve Midnight for its excellent value, with particular commendation for the case and bracelet finishing, dial texture, and lume. Some owners note the bracelet links have sharp edges and the clasp's interior surfaces are unfinished, while others find the dial lacks distinctiveness among similar watches. One owner reports the date changes precisely within seconds. Overall, owners and reviewers rate Christopher Ward The Twelve Midnight highly for its value and finishing at the price point.
The black lacquer dial's quality and premium feel are consistently praised. Reviewers express reservations about the watch's value or execution. Reviewers disagree on whether the watch's objective merits translate to personal appeal.
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.
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