Formex Essence FortythreevsRolex Datejust

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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.

Formex Essence Fortythree at true scale

Essence Fortythree

Rolex Datejust at true scale

Datejust

Diameter

43mm

31mm

Lug-to-Lug

49mm

n/a

Thickness

10.6mm

n/a

Water Resistance

100m

100m

Power Reserve

38h

55h

highest

MSRP

$1,850

lowest

$9,350

Movement

Sellita SW200-1

2236

Case

7 specs
Diameter
43mm
31mm
Thickness
10.6mm
n/a
Lug-to-Lug
49mm
n/a
Lug Width
22mm
n/a
Material
Stainless Steel
Oystersteel
Finish
n/a
White Rolesor - combination of Oystersteel and white gold
Caseback
n/a
Monobloc middle case, screw-down case back and winding crown

Crystal & Dial

4 specs
Crystal Shape
n/a
Flat
Dial Color
Black
Light Green
Indices
n/a
Index
Lume
Super-LumiNova
Chromalight

Movement

7 specs
Caliber
Sellita SW200-1
2236
Beat Rate
0 vph
28,800 vph
Power Reserve
38h
55h
Jewels
0
31
Hacking
No
Yes
Hand-winding
No
Yes
Complications
None
Date

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$1,850
$9,350
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Reviews

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, and the value it offers, with reviewers highlighting its attractive and legible design. The bracelet's micro-adjust system is functional, though not on-the-fly, and the dial's play with light is a consistent positive, though some find the design derivative or the white dial stark. One owner notes the leather strap and deployant are exceptional. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the Formex Essence Fortythree highly for its luxury-level finishing and comfortable wearability at its price point.

Rolex Datejust

The Rolex Datejust is widely praised for its aesthetic variety, robust elegance, and versatility, making it suitable for daily wear in various settings. Owners consistently highlight the exceptional comfort of the Jubilee bracelet, with some preferring its "pizzazz" over the sportier Oyster bracelet. The 36mm size is frequently noted for its tasteful proportions, though opinions on dial colors and bezel styles, such as fluted or domed, vary among enthusiasts. Some configurations, particularly those with fluted bezels and Jubilee bracelets in specific dial colors, are considered highly sought-after, though wait times can be significant. The Rolex Datejust is not considered a good investment, as it typically depreciates upon purchase. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the Rolex Datejust highly for its versatile style and comfortable wearability, representing a foundational piece of the brand's legacy.

From video reviewers

The fluted bezel is a consistent highlight. Reviewers did not agree on any specific weaknesses.

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