Side by side

Formex Reef 39.5 mmvsGrand Seiko SBGH289

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

Reef 39.5 mm
FormexReef 39.5 mm
MSRP $2,230
SBGH289
Grand SeikoSBGH289
MSRP $7,700

At a glance

10 of 29 specs differ
Diameter
Reef 39.5 mm39.5mm
SBGH28943.8mm
Power Reserve
Reef 39.5 mm56h
SBGH28955h
Water Resistance
Reef 39.5 mm300m
SBGH289200m
MSRP
Reef 39.5 mm$2,230
SBGH289$7,700

Full specifications

Case

4 specs
Diameter
39.5mm
43.8mm
Thickness
11mm
14.7mm
Lug-to-Lug
45.5mm
51mm
Water Resistance
300m
200m

Crystal & Dial

3 specs
AR Coating
Inner
Yes
Dial Color
Bahama Blue
Black
Lume
Super-LumiNova
None

Movement

2 specs
Caliber
Sellita SW300-1
9S85
Power Reserve
56h
55h

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$2,230
$7,700

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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 Reef 39.5 mm

The Formex Reef 39.5 mm is widely praised for its refined finishing, comfortable and well-proportioned case design, and impressive specifications for its price point, including COSC-certified Sellita SW300-1 movement and 300m water resistance. Owners and reviewers highlight the tool-less micro-adjust clasp and quick-release spring bars as practical features. Some reviewers note that the 22mm lug width feels slightly disproportionate to the smaller case, and the bracelet could benefit from more taper, though this is a point of contention for some owners who value the overall package. A prototype crown protrusion issue is noted as being addressed for production. On balance, owners and reviewers rate the Formex Reef 39.5 mm highly for its excellent value and well-executed design.

Grand Seiko SBGH289

The Grand Seiko SBGH289 is praised for its legible blue dial, strong Lumibrite, and the accurate Hi-Beat Caliber 9S85 movement. Reviewers note its bright initial lume glow, though its longevity is questioned compared to other models. The watch features Grand Seiko's Super-Hard Coating for scratch resistance and retails for €7,200. Overall, reviewers highlight the SBGH289's appealing aesthetics and robust movement as key strengths.

From video reviewers

Excellent finishing and smooth bezel action are notable features of the Grand Seiko SBGH289. A weakness of the watch is the relatively low lume brightness. Reviewers disagree on the watch's ideal lug width, with some considering 22mm a limitation for users who prefer a more standard 20mm or 21mm strap width, while others do not mention this as a concern.

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