Side by side

Formex Essence FortyOnevsGrand Seiko SBGV239

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.

From video reviewers

The COSC-certified automatic movement is a shared strength. Reviewers did not agree on any weaknesses.

Grand Seiko SBGV239

The Grand Seiko SBGV239 is widely praised for its superb timekeeping from the 9F Quartz movement and its excellent finishing, which exceeds expectations. Owners highlight the dial's ability to pop even in poor lighting and its deep blue color that can appear black. The watch's 40mm diameter is also frequently cited as a positive attribute for wearability. Overall, owners rate the Grand Seiko SBGV239 highly for its exceptional finishing and the precise timekeeping of its 9F Quartz movement.

From video reviewers

The 9F quartz movement's exceptional accuracy is a key strength. The slim profile of the watch is also a notable feature.

At a glance

11 of 29 specs differ
Diameter
Essence FortyOne41mm
SBGV23940mm
Power Reserve
Essence FortyOne41h
SBGV239
Water Resistance
Essence FortyOne100m
SBGV239100m
MSRP
Essence FortyOne$1,890
SBGV239$3,100

Full specifications

Case

4 specs
Diameter
41mm
40mm
Thickness
10.6mm
10.4mm
Lug-to-Lug
46.5mm
46.2mm
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 9F82
Type
Automatic
Quartz
Power Reserve
41h
0h

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$1,890
$3,100
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