Side by side

Formex Essence FortythreevsHamilton Khaki Aviation Takeoff Auto Chrono

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 Fortythree

Owners widely praise the Formex Essence Fortythree for its comfortable wearability, excellent finishing for its price point, and a dial that plays well with light, with one owner noting the blue dial's variable appearance. The bracelet's micro-adjust system is functional, and the leather strap and deployant are considered exceptional. Reviewers highlight the watch's legible design and slim 10mm case, noting its significant value under $1,300. Some find the dial design derivative and the hardware-style logo out of place, while others consider the white dial stark. Consumer confusion exists regarding COSC versus non-COSC movement options. On balance, owners and reviewers rate the Formex Essence Fortythree highly for its luxury-level finishing and comfortable, value-driven design.

Hamilton Khaki Aviation Takeoff Auto Chrono

The Hamilton Khaki Aviation Takeoff Auto Chrono is noted for its unique bullhead chronograph design and detachable functionality for desktop display, with a PVD case and yellow accents. Owners praise its solid construction, precise indices, and smooth bezel action, alongside a detailed champagne dial, crisp printing, and retro hands with good lume. However, its extreme thickness and 46.3mm width are flagged as compromising daily wearability, and some find the sizable crown guards hinder usability, while a rattling bracelet with a difficult-to-remove design is also mentioned. The watch uses the Hamilton H-31 automatic chronograph movement with a 60-hour power reserve and is a limited edition of 1999 units. On balance, owners and reviewers appreciate the Hamilton Khaki Aviation Takeoff Auto Chrono for its distinctive design and pilot-inspired legibility, despite practical concerns regarding its size and wearability.

At a glance

9 of 29 specs differ
Diameter
Essence Fortythree43mm
Khaki Aviation Takeoff Auto Chrono46mm
Power Reserve
Essence Fortythree38h
Khaki Aviation Takeoff Auto Chrono60h
Water Resistance
Essence Fortythree100m
Khaki Aviation Takeoff Auto Chrono50m
MSRP
Essence Fortythree$1,850
Khaki Aviation Takeoff Auto Chrono$3,575

Full specifications

Case

5 specs
Category
Dress
Pilot
Diameter
43mm
46mm
Thickness
10.6mm
16.2mm
Lug-to-Lug
49mm
46mm
Water Resistance
100m
50m

Crystal & Dial

1 specs
Lume
Super-LumiNova
None

Movement

2 specs
Caliber
Sellita SW200-1
H-31
Power Reserve
38h
60h

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$1,850
$3,575
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