Side by side

Formex Essence FortyOnevsRolex Datejust

The numbers, the dial colors, the calibers — laid out so you can stop flipping between tabs.

Essence FortyOne
FormexEssence FortyOne
MSRP $1,890
Datejust
RolexDatejust
MSRP $7,700
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 FortyOne

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.

Rolex Datejust

The Rolex Datejust is widely praised for its versatility, robust elegance, and historical significance, serving as a foundational piece of the brand's legacy. Owners and reviewers frequently highlight its spectacular aesthetic variety, with numerous configurations available, and its comfortable wearability, particularly on the Jubilee bracelet. The 31mm case size is noted for its comfortable proportions, and the watch is considered durable for daily wear, suitable for both casual and formal occasions. Some owners appreciate the dynamic dial colors and the tactile experience of winding the automatic movement. However, some sources indicate that polished surfaces can scratch easily, and servicing is costly. The Rolex Datejust is generally not considered a good investment, with models typically depreciating upon purchase.

From video reviewers

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

At a glance

16 of 29 specs differ
Diameter
Essence FortyOne41mm
Datejust31mm
Power Reserve
Essence FortyOne41h
Datejust55h
Water Resistance
Essence FortyOne100m
Datejust100m
MSRP
Essence FortyOne$1,890
Datejust$7,700

Full specifications

Case

7 specs
Diameter
41mm
31mm
Thickness
10.6mm
Lug-to-Lug
46.5mm
Lug Width
22mm
20mm
Material
Stainless Steel
Oystersteel
Finish
Brushed and polished
White Rolesor - combination of Oystersteel and white gold
Caseback
Solid
Monobloc middle case, screw-down case back and winding crown

Crystal & Dial

4 specs
AR Coating
Inner
Dial Color
Arctic White
Light Green
Indices
Applied
Index
Lume
Super-LumiNova
Chromalight

Movement

4 specs
Caliber
Sellita SW200-1
2236
Power Reserve
41h
55h
Jewels
25
31
Complications
None
Date

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$1,890
$7,700
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