Side by side

Formex Essence FortythreevsGrand Seiko SBGH341

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.

Grand Seiko SBGH341

The Grand Seiko SBGH341 is noted for its vintage-friendly 38mm size and high-intensity titanium construction. Reviewers highlight its bezel-less design and textured light pink dial. The hi-beat automatic calibre 9S85 movement offers a claimed accuracy of +5 to -3 seconds per day. One concern raised is that the highly polished Zaratsu case finish may be prone to scratching. The titanium bracelet lacks micro-adjustment. Overall, reviewers praise the Grand Seiko SBGH341 for its refined 38mm sizing and lightweight titanium build.

At a glance

11 of 29 specs differ
Diameter
Essence Fortythree43mm
SBGH34138mm
Power Reserve
Essence Fortythree38h
SBGH34155h
Water Resistance
Essence Fortythree100m
SBGH341100m
MSRP
Essence Fortythree$1,850
SBGH341$7,900

Full specifications

Case

5 specs
Diameter
43mm
38mm
Thickness
10.6mm
12.9mm
Lug-to-Lug
49mm
44.7mm
Lug Width
22mm
20mm
Material
Stainless Steel
Titanium

Crystal & Dial

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

Movement

2 specs
Caliber
Sellita SW200-1
9S85
Power Reserve
38h
55h

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$1,850
$7,900
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