Christopher Ward C65 Sandhurst Series 2vsFormex 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.

Christopher Ward C65 Sandhurst Series 2 at true scale

C65 Sandhurst Series 2

Formex Essence ThirtyNine at true scale

Essence ThirtyNine

Diameter

38mm

39mm

Lug-to-Lug

43.7mm

lowest

45mm

Thickness

11.9mm

10mm

lowest

Water Resistance

150m

highest

100m

Power Reserve

38h

41h

highest

MSRP

$1,375

lowest

$2,390

Movement

Sellita SW200-1

Sellita SW200-1

Case

6 specs
Category
Field
Dress
Diameter
38mm
39mm
Thickness
11.9mm
10mm
Lug-to-Lug
43.7mm
45mm
Finish
down backplate with deep-stamped British Army Heraldic badge
n/a
Water Resistance
150m
100m

Crystal & Dial

2 specs
Dial Color
Black
Space Ghost
Lume
SLN Grade X1 BL C1
Super-LumiNova

Movement

3 specs
Beat Rate
4 vph
0 vph
Power Reserve
38h
41h
Jewels
26
0

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$1,375
$2,390
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Reviews

Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.

Christopher Ward C65 Sandhurst Series 2

Owners widely praise the Christopher Ward C65 Sandhurst Series 2 for its balanced wearability, clean British-military aesthetic, and COSC-certified accuracy. The 38mm case size aligns with a trend for smaller watches, and its mid-century design is described as ultra-legible and cool, with a gorgeous domed crystal and a MOD badge on the caseback adding charm for military enthusiasts. Some owners question its claimed military heritage compared to other brands, and a few find the 38mm size potentially too small for larger wrists. The watch features a Sellita SW200 COSC chronometer movement with Grade X1 Super-LumiNova. On balance, owners rate the Christopher Ward C65 Sandhurst Series 2 highly for its character, perfect dimensions, and COSC-certified accuracy.

From video reviewers

The COSC-certified movement and vintage military aesthetic are praised. The sub-£1,000 price point is considered remarkable for the quality.

Formex Essence ThirtyNine

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.

From video reviewers

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.