Side by side

Formex Essence ThirtyNinevsGrand Seiko SBGX353

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 SBGX353

The Grand Seiko SBGX353 is widely praised for its mesmerizing "Skyflake" textured blue dial, considered by owners to be "perfect art." Reviewers and owners alike highlight the watch's elegant 34mm case size and the advanced 9F61 quartz movement, noting its exceptional ±10 seconds per year accuracy and precise second-hand alignment. Some owners find the dial's aesthetic appeal slightly diminished when worn compared to other options, and one owner replaced the quick-release buckle for a Hirsch clasp. Overall, owners rate the Grand Seiko SBGX353 highly for its exquisite dial finishing and the precision of its quartz movement at its price point.

At a glance

12 of 29 specs differ
Diameter
Essence ThirtyNine39mm
SBGX35334mm
Power Reserve
Essence ThirtyNine41h
SBGX353
Water Resistance
Essence ThirtyNine100m
SBGX35330m
MSRP
Essence ThirtyNine$2,390
SBGX353$4,100

Full specifications

Case

5 specs
Diameter
39mm
34mm
Thickness
10mm
10.7mm
Lug-to-Lug
45mm
41.5mm
Lug Width
20mm
18mm
Water Resistance
100m
30m

Crystal & Dial

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

Movement

3 specs
Caliber
Sellita SW200-1
Grand Seiko 9F61
Type
Automatic
Quartz
Power Reserve
41h
0h

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$2,390
$4,100
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