Side by side

Formex Essence FortythreevsGrand Seiko STGF359

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 STGF359

Owners widely praise the Grand Seiko STGF359 for its elegant pairing with an engagement ring. Some owners find the 29mm case size too small for a man's wrist, while others suggest it can be worn by men with smaller wrists, recommending an in-person try-on. One owner notes potential date wheel misalignment requiring servicing. The bracelet has a maximum perimeter of 185mm, with extra links available. On balance, owners value the Grand Seiko STGF359 for its elegant aesthetic, though its small size is a point of consideration.

From video reviewers

The Grand Seiko STGF359 features a 9F quartz movement with exceptional accuracy, deviating by only +/−10 seconds per year. A drawback of the watch is its 40mm case size, which may be a concern for those with smaller wrists. Reviewers disagree on the type of movement, with one praising the 9F quartz and the other highlighting the spring drive movement.

At a glance

11 of 29 specs differ
Diameter
Essence Fortythree43mm
STGF35928.9mm
Power Reserve
Essence Fortythree38h
STGF359
Water Resistance
Essence Fortythree100m
STGF359100m
MSRP
Essence Fortythree$1,850
STGF359$2,600

Full specifications

Case

4 specs
Diameter
43mm
28.9mm
Thickness
10.6mm
8.7mm
Lug-to-Lug
49mm
35.4mm
Lug Width
22mm
14mm

Crystal & Dial

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

Movement

3 specs
Caliber
Sellita SW200-1
4J52
Type
Automatic
Quartz
Power Reserve
38h
0h

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$1,850
$2,600
Keep exploring

More watches worth a look

Matched to the watches above on size, movement, style and price — microbrands first. Open any one to dig in.

Follow this matchup

Get a note when Formex Essence Fortythree vs Grand Seiko STGF359 gets more votes, a community discussion, or a price drop. No account needed.

Adjacent matchups

People also compared

Comparisons nearby in the catalog — alternatives to the watches above paired against the matchup.