Citizen Series 8 831vsFormex 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.
Series 8 831
Essence ThirtyNine
Diameter
40mm
39mm
Lug-to-Lug
n/a
45mm
Thickness
n/a
10mm
Water Resistance
100m
100m
Power Reserve
42h
highest
41h
MSRP
$1,095
lowest
$2,390
Movement
Miyota 9051
Sellita SW200-1
Case
4 specsCrystal & Dial
3 specsMovement
2 specsPricing
1 specsReviews
Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.
Owners widely praise the Citizen Series 8 831 for its impressive finishing and textured dials, with the blue dial and bracelet play of light specifically noted as luxurious and comfortable on the wrist. The watch utilizes the Miyota 9051 automatic movement, offers 100m water resistance, and features a 40mm case. Accuracy is reported between -10 to +20 seconds per day with a 42-hour power reserve. On balance, owners and reviewers rate the Citizen Series 8 831 highly for its luxurious feel and dial finishing at its price point.
The case finishing, with its contrasting brushed and polished surfaces, is a notable strength. The 40mm case size and comfortable fit are also consistently mentioned. Reviewers did not reach a consensus on any weaknesses.
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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