Side by side

Formex Essence ThirtyNinevsGrand Seiko SBGA293

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

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.

Grand Seiko SBGA293

Grand Seiko SBGA293 owners praise its light cream dial and exceptionally well-finished markers and hands. The Spring Drive movement is highlighted as a special feature, offering high accuracy and a blend of jewelry and technology, though the rotor can be audible. Some owners find the case size a concern for formal wear, while others consider it not particularly thick and appreciate the Spring Drive's unique horology, accuracy, and reliability. On balance, owners rate the Grand Seiko SBGA293 highly for its unique Spring Drive movement and refined dial and hand finishing.

At a glance

11 of 29 specs differ
Diameter
Essence ThirtyNine39mm
SBGA29340.2mm
Power Reserve
Essence ThirtyNine41h
SBGA29372h
Water Resistance
Essence ThirtyNine100m
SBGA293100m
MSRP
Essence ThirtyNine$2,390
SBGA293$5,200

Full specifications

Case

4 specs
Diameter
39mm
40.2mm
Thickness
10mm
12.8mm
Lug-to-Lug
45mm
48.5mm
Lug Width
20mm
19mm

Crystal & Dial

3 specs
AR Coating
Yes
Dial Color
Space Ghost
Lume
Super-LumiNova
None

Movement

3 specs
Caliber
Sellita SW200-1
9R65
Type
Automatic
Spring Drive
Power Reserve
41h
72h

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$2,390
$5,200
Keep exploring

More watches worth a look

Matched to the watches above on size, movement, style and price — microbrands first. Open any one to dig in.

Follow this matchup

Get a note when Formex Essence ThirtyNine vs Grand Seiko SBGA293 gets more votes, a community discussion, or a price drop. No account needed.

Adjacent matchups

People also compared

Comparisons nearby in the catalog — alternatives to the watches above paired against the matchup.