Formex Essence ThirtyNinevsFears Alliance 01 (Burgundy)
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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.
Essence ThirtyNine
Alliance 01 (Burgundy)
Diameter
39mm
40.5mm
Lug-to-Lug
45mm
n/a
Thickness
10mm
n/a
Water Resistance
100m
highest
10m
Power Reserve
41h
n/a
MSRP
$2,390
lowest
$4,180
Movement
Sellita SW200-1
Sellita SW200-1
Case
6 specsCrystal & Dial
2 specsMovement
1 specsPricing
1 specsReviews
Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.
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.
Owners and reviewers widely praise the Fears Alliance 01 (Burgundy) for its versatile burgundy dial, often noted as pairing well with blue and green, and its unique jumping hour complication with a distinct "whooshing" sound. The 40.5mm cushion case is described as wearable, and the watch is appreciated for its "British" brief and limited UK collaboration status. Some sources note a chronometer-grade Sellita SW200 movement with a JJ01 module. However, the £3,950/$4,000 price point is considered steep by some, particularly given the use of a Sellita movement, and a few owners find Fears' finishing rough for the cost. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the Fears Alliance 01 (Burgundy) highly for its innovative jumping hour complication and unique British story at its price.
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