Le Forban Sécurité Mer La RochelaisevsSmiths Trans-Global
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Measurements
Catalog photos are all shot at the same flattering size. These aren't: every case below shares one millimeter scale.

La Rochelaise

Trans-Global
Diameter
39mm
38mm
Lug-to-Lug
46mm
lowest
46.8mm
Thickness
11.4mm
lowest
12.3mm
Water Resistance
150m
highest
100m
Power Reserve
42h
n/a
Movement
Miyota 9039
Miyota 9039
Case
6 specsCrystal & Dial
1 specsMovement
1 specsReviews
Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.
Le Forban Sécurité Mer La Rochelaise is praised for its well-considered 39mm geometry that allows it to wear thin, its use of a no-date Miyota 9039 movement without a ghost position, and its overall compelling package for the price. Owners consistently highlight its vintage proportions, excellent legibility, and comfortable wearability, with one owner noting it runs within COSC specifications. The inner rotating bezel is described as original, and the ocean-green dial is a point of appreciation, with one owner receiving many compliments. The price of €740 on strap and €790 on bracelet is considered on the higher end for revived microbrands, though not unreasonable, with some owners feeling it is too expensive for a Miyota movement. Criticisms include a desire for more signature on the secondary crown and a dislike for the red seconds hand from multiple owners.
The compressor case design is a shared strength. Reviewers did not agree on a specific weakness.
Smiths TRANS-GLOBAL owners widely praise its appearance, with multiple dial colors available and the aventurine dial specifically noted for its stunning, starry-sky effect. The beads-of-rice bracelet is considered exceptionally comfortable, even compared to luxury brands, and the 38mm case is generally well-received for its wearability, though one owner wished for a smaller 34-36mm option. The Miyota 9039 movement's accuracy varies, with one report of +12 seconds per day requiring regulation and another noting perfect timekeeping on a timegrapher. Some owners report sharp edges on the case and a clasp that could be improved, while one noted a "ghost movement" of the seconds hand when setting the time, though this is suggested to be common across brands. On balance, owners rate the Smiths TRANS-GLOBAL highly for its attractive design and comfortable bracelet, despite minor concerns regarding case finishing and movement regulation.
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