Side by side

Formex Essence ThirtyNinevsSeiko Astron

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.

Seiko Astron

Owners widely praise the Seiko Astron for its spectacular time-telling technology, GPS time sync, and grab-and-go convenience, with many calling it the best watch they have ever owned. Reviewers and owners highlight the well-managed dial detail, textured hour markers, and high-contrast edges, as well as the well-finished case and bracelet. Some find the lightweight titanium build and quick bracelet adjustment contribute to comfortable wearability. Accuracy is noted as +/- 15 seconds per month without GPS, though the autonomous quartz movement can be easily reset by looking at the sky. Criticisms include DST not being automatically implemented, recessed buttons requiring a sharp object for adjustment, and sparse lume with no 12 o'clock marker. Some owners feel the price point is too expensive for its aesthetic appeal. Overall, owners rate the Seiko Astron highly for its advanced time-telling technology and convenient features.

At a glance

13 of 29 specs differ
Diameter
Essence ThirtyNine39mm
Astron41.2mm
Power Reserve
Essence ThirtyNine41h
Astron
Water Resistance
Essence ThirtyNine100m
Astron100m
MSRP
Essence ThirtyNine$2,390
Astron$2,200

Full specifications

Case

5 specs
Diameter
39mm
41.2mm
Thickness
10mm
12mm
Lug-to-Lug
45mm
48.5mm
Lug Width
20mm
14mm
Material
Stainless Steel
Titanium

Crystal & Dial

3 specs
AR Coating
Super-clear coating
Dial Color
Space Ghost
Lume
Super-LumiNova
LumiBrite on hands and index(es)

Movement

4 specs
Caliber
Sellita SW200-1
3X62
Type
Automatic
Quartz
Power Reserve
41h
0h
Jewels
0
10

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$2,390
$2,200
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