Side by side

Formex Essence FortyOnevsGrand Seiko SBGA427

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

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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.

Grand Seiko SBGA427

Grand Seiko SBGA427 owners widely praise its extensive Zaratsu polishing and the "hall of mirrors" effect created by its diamond-cut indexes, complemented by a subtle, reeded dial and a striking green seconds hand. The 39mm case is noted for its comfortable, tapered bracelet, and the 9R65 Spring Drive movement is visible through the caseback. Some owners report the highly polished Zaratsu finish is prone to scuffs and scratches, with one mentioning a scratch near 1 o'clock. The Grand Seiko SBGA427 sold for $3750. Overall, owners rate the Grand Seiko SBGA427 highly for its exceptional finishing and the unique visual appeal of its dial and indexes.

At a glance

11 of 29 specs differ
Diameter
Essence FortyOne41mm
SBGA42739mm
Power Reserve
Essence FortyOne41h
SBGA42772h
Water Resistance
Essence FortyOne100m
SBGA427100m
MSRP
Essence FortyOne$1,890
SBGA427$5,800

Full specifications

Case

4 specs
Diameter
41mm
39mm
Thickness
10.6mm
12.3mm
Lug-to-Lug
46.5mm
46.8mm
Lug Width
22mm
19mm

Crystal & Dial

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

Movement

3 specs
Caliber
Sellita SW200-1
Grand Seiko 9R65
Type
Automatic
Spring Drive
Power Reserve
41h
72h

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$1,890
$5,800
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