Formex Essence FortyOnevsOrient Bambino Small Seconds

Owners widely praise the Formex Essence for its comfortable bracelet, excellent finishing, and slim wearability, with some considering it the best in its price range. Reviewers highlight its compelling value, sporty-chic aesthetic, and build quality that suggests a more expensive product, noting the patented suspension system and chronometer-certified movement. Some owners dislike the brand name and logo, and the dial design is considered derivative by some. The 43mm case wears well due to its 10mm thickness and 49mm lug-to-lug, though some find it large on smaller wrists. A point of contention for some is the non-screw-down crown, despite its 100m water resistance. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the Formex Essence highly for its exceptional comfort and build quality at its price point.

The Orient Bambino is widely praised for its exceptional value and vintage-inspired dress watch design, with reviewers highlighting its dial quality as comparable to much more expensive timepieces. Owners appreciate the watch as a great beginner automatic, with many continuing to wear it even after acquiring pricier watches, and the case finishing is noted as a significant upgrade for the line. Some owners find the finishing not as robust as other models, and the stock straps are frequently replaced. The 38mm variant uses mineral glass and an in-house F6724 calibre with a 40-hour power reserve, rated for +25/-15 seconds per day accuracy, while the Small Seconds variant features an F6222 caliber with hand-winding and hacking seconds. The 36mm version is praised for its size and vintage feel, though its marketing and narrow lug width are noted as drawbacks.