Formex Essence ThirtyNinevsLongines ULTRA-CHRON CLASSIC
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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.
Essence ThirtyNine
ULTRA-CHRON CLASSIC
Diameter
39mm
40mm
Lug-to-Lug
45mm
lowest
47.2mm
Thickness
10mm
lowest
10.9mm
Water Resistance
100m
highest
30m
Power Reserve
41h
72h
highest
MSRP
$2,390
lowest
$4,000
Movement
Sellita SW200-1
Longines L836.6
Case
6 specsCrystal & Dial
3 specsMovement
4 specsPricing
1 specsReviews
Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.
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.
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.
The Longines ULTRA-CHRON CLASSIC is widely praised for its high-beat 5Hz L836.6 movement, which offers exceptional accuracy and a smooth seconds hand, with some owners considering it a bargain for these features. Reviewers highlight its successful retro design, faithful to 1960s aesthetics with modern updates like a sapphire crystal and micro-adjustment clasp. Owners note the comfortable bracelet and striking, sparkling indices against a sunray silver dial. Some find the 40mm case wears larger than expected, with several suggesting the 37mm version offers superior wearability. One owner desires a version without a date window, and the dial is described as stark. The 30m water resistance is noted as not exceptional. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the Longines ULTRA-CHRON CLASSIC highly for its blend of vintage charm and modern high-frequency movement performance at its price point.
The watch's high-beat movement, certified by TimeLab Geneva as an Ultra-Chronometer, is a notable feature. The relatively high price compared to its competitors is a drawback. Reviewers disagree on the optimal case size, with one reviewer mentioning 41mm and 43mm, and the other mentioning 37mm and 40mm.
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