Formex Essence ThirtyNinevsRolex Datejust

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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 Datejust at true scale

Datejust

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

$9,350

Movement

Sellita SW200-1

2236

Case

7 specs
Diameter
39mm
31mm
Thickness
10mm
n/a
Lug-to-Lug
45mm
n/a
Lug Width
20mm
n/a
Material
Stainless Steel
Oystersteel
Finish
n/a
White Rolesor - combination of Oystersteel and white gold
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
Light Green
Indices
n/a
Index
Lume
Super-LumiNova
Chromalight

Movement

7 specs
Caliber
Sellita SW200-1
2236
Beat Rate
0 vph
28,800 vph
Power Reserve
41h
55h
Jewels
0
31
Hacking
No
Yes
Hand-winding
No
Yes
Complications
None
Date

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$2,390
$9,350
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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 Datejust

The Rolex Datejust is widely praised for its aesthetic variety, robust elegance, and versatility, making it suitable for daily wear in various settings. Owners consistently highlight the exceptional comfort of the Jubilee bracelet, with some preferring its "pizzazz" over the sportier Oyster bracelet. The 36mm size is frequently noted for its tasteful proportions, though opinions on dial colors and bezel styles, such as fluted or domed, vary among enthusiasts. Some configurations, particularly those with fluted bezels and Jubilee bracelets in specific dial colors, are considered highly sought-after, though wait times can be significant. The Rolex Datejust is not considered a good investment, as it typically depreciates upon purchase. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the Rolex Datejust highly for its versatile style and comfortable wearability, representing a foundational piece of the brand's legacy.

From video reviewers

The fluted bezel is a consistent highlight. Reviewers did not agree on any specific weaknesses.