Formex Essence ThirtyNinevsIWC Schaffhausen Iw3565 Portofino Automatic

lug2lug doesn't sell watches. Buy links open the brand's or seller's own site. Some links are affiliate links: lug2lug may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Disclosures

Measurements

Catalog photos are all shot at the same flattering size. These aren't: every case below shares one millimeter scale.

Formex Essence ThirtyNine at true scale

Essence ThirtyNine

IWC Schaffhausen Iw3565 Portofino Automatic at true scale

Iw3565 Portofino Automatic

Diameter

39mm

40mm

Lug-to-Lug

45mm

n/a

Thickness

10mm

9.2mm

lowest

Water Resistance

100m

highest

30m

Power Reserve

41h

50h

highest

MSRP

$2,390

lowest

$5,200

Movement

Sellita SW200-1

35111

Case

5 specs
Diameter
39mm
40mm
Thickness
10mm
9.2mm
Lug-to-Lug
45mm
n/a
Finish
n/a
Steel
Water Resistance
100m
30m

Crystal & Dial

2 specs
Dial Color
Space Ghost
Black
Lume
Super-LumiNova
None

Movement

6 specs
Caliber
Sellita SW200-1
35111
Beat Rate
0 vph
28,800 vph
Power Reserve
41h
50h
Jewels
0
25
Hacking
No
Yes
Hand-winding
No
Yes

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$2,390
$5,200
Keep your wishlist and collection together in the appExplore the app

Reviews

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

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.

IWC Schaffhausen Iw3565 Portofino Automatic

Owners widely praise the IWC Schaffhausen Iw3565 Portofino Automatic for its clean, classic dress watch aesthetics and a 40mm dial size that suits smaller wrists. The watch is noted for its simple elegance and appealing color, with one owner reporting excellent timekeeping. However, some owners question its value, citing the use of an external movement and a price tag they find high for the caliber, leading to concerns about resale value compared to watches with in-house movements. One owner reported a significant repair time after dropping their watch. Overall, owners rate the IWC Schaffhausen Iw3565 Portofino Automatic highly for its sophisticated design and wearability on various wrists, though value perception varies due to its movement and price point.