Side by side

Formex Essence ThirtyNinevsKUOE OLD SMITH 90-001

The numbers, the dial colors, the calibers — laid out so you can stop flipping between tabs.

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What people say

Owners + reviewers, side by side

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

Formex Essence ThirtyNine

The Formex Essence ThirtyNine is praised for its impressive build quality and value, featuring a patented case suspension system for comfort and protection. It houses a COSC-certified Sellita SW200-1 movement with a 38-hour power reserve and a tool-free strap quick-release system. A minor inconvenience noted is the specific closing order of the clasp. On balance, reviewers rate the Formex Essence ThirtyNine highly for its comfortable wearability and excellent value at its price point.

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.

KUOE OLD SMITH 90-001

KUOE OLD SMITH is widely praised for its vintage aesthetic and comfortable 35mm wearability, with owners noting its attractive bronze case and dial contrast. Reviewers and owners alike highlight its excellent accuracy. However, the case finishing is considered average for the price, and the lume fades quickly. Some find the small date window difficult to read, and the Seiko NH38 movement is described as noisy. The 18mm lug width and PVD-coated strap hardware are also noted as drawbacks. Overall, owners and reviewers find the KUOE OLD SMITH to be a compelling vintage field watch offering good value, particularly for its aesthetic appeal and accuracy.

At a glance

12 of 29 specs differ
Diameter
Essence ThirtyNine39mm
OLD SMITH 90-00135mm
Power Reserve
Essence ThirtyNine41h
OLD SMITH 90-001
Water Resistance
Essence ThirtyNine100m
OLD SMITH 90-00150m
MSRP
Essence ThirtyNine$2,390
OLD SMITH 90-001$405

Full specifications

Case

4 specs
Diameter
39mm
35mm
Lug-to-Lug
45mm
42mm
Lug Width
20mm
18mm
Water Resistance
100m
50m

Crystal & Dial

4 specs
Crystal Shape
Dome
AR Coating
Yes
Dial Color
Space Ghost
Gold
Lume
Super-LumiNova
None

Movement

3 specs
Caliber
Sellita SW200-1
Seiko VD78
Type
Automatic
Quartz
Power Reserve
41h
0h

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$2,390
$405
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