Citizen Series 8 870vsFormex 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 8 870

Essence ThirtyNine
Diameter
40.8mm
39mm
Lug-to-Lug
n/a
45mm
Thickness
n/a
10mm
Water Resistance
100m
100m
Power Reserve
50h
highest
41h
MSRP
$1,595
lowest
$2,390
Movement
0950
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.
The Citizen Series 8 870 is noted for its sharp-angled steel case and unique bezel construction, featuring a glossy dial with finely brushed and polished applied hour markers. The movement is the in-house caliber 0950 automatic, offering 50-hour power reserve and enhanced magnetic resistance. One review mentions the First Anniversary Limited Edition has a black DLC coated case, carbon fiber dial, and is regulated to -5/+10 seconds per day. Overall, owners and reviewers appreciate the Citizen Series 8 870 for its distinctive case design and dial finishing.
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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