Formex Essence ThirtyNinevsRolex Oyster Perpetual

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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.

Formex Essence ThirtyNine at true scale

Essence ThirtyNine

Rolex Oyster Perpetual at true scale

Oyster Perpetual

Diameter

39mm

31mm

Lug-to-Lug

45mm

n/a

Thickness

10mm

n/a

Water Resistance

100m

100m

Power Reserve

41h

55h

highest

MSRP

$2,390

lowest

$6,300

Movement

Sellita SW200-1

2232

Case

6 specs
Diameter
39mm
31mm
Thickness
10mm
n/a
Lug-to-Lug
45mm
n/a
Lug Width
20mm
n/a
Material
Stainless Steel
Oystersteel
Caseback
n/a
Monobloc middle case, screw-down case back and winding crown

Crystal & Dial

4 specs
Crystal Shape
n/a
Flat
Dial Color
Space Ghost
Green
Indices
n/a
Index
Lume
Super-LumiNova
Chromalight

Movement

6 specs
Caliber
Sellita SW200-1
2232
Beat Rate
0 vph
28,800 vph
Power Reserve
41h
55h
Jewels
0
31
Hacking
No
Yes
Hand-winding
No
Yes

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$2,390
$6,300
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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.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual

Owners widely praise the Rolex Oyster Perpetual for its understated design, versatility, and suitability as an everyday watch, with many appreciating its quality and discreet appearance. Reviewers note the 41mm yellow-dial model's surprising wearability and that its 12mm thickness easily slides under a cuff. Accuracy is reported at +/- 2 seconds per day, and the movement offers approximately 70 hours of power reserve. However, lume in the thin hands is nearly invisible in darkness. The Rolex Oyster Perpetual is notoriously difficult to acquire from authorized dealers due to high demand and limited production, with wait times potentially exceeding a year for specific configurations. Some owners find certain dial colors or sizes, like the 41mm, too large, preferring smaller options for better fit or easier acquisition. Overall, owners rate the Rolex Oyster Perpetual highly for its discreet quality and wearability, making it a sought-after first luxury watch.

From video reviewers

The Rolex Oyster Perpetual's enduring appeal and versatility for everyday wear are consistently praised. Reviewers note the watch's high price point relative to its specifications and mention the difficulty in acquiring one at retail due to demand.

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