Citizen Series 8 890vsFormex Reef GMT
The numbers, the dial colors, the calibers — laid out so you can stop flipping between tabs.
At a glance
12 of 29 specs differFull specifications
Case
6 specsCrystal & Dial
3 specsMovement
2 specsPricing
1 specsFollow this matchup
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Owners + reviewers, side by side
Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.
The Citizen Series 8 890 is praised for its robust build, 200 meters of water resistance without a screw-down crown, and excellent case finishing for its price. Reviewers note the smooth action of its internal bezel, though one suggests the knurling could be more pronounced for better grip. It utilizes the caliber 9051 automatic movement with a 42-hour power reserve, which often performs better than Citizen's stated -10/+20 seconds per day. The watch's design is noted as borrowing from popular luxury sports watches, and its lug-to-lug measurement can make it wear large. Overall, reviewers find the Citizen Series 8 890 a compelling and robust sports watch, particularly for its finishing and water resistance capabilities.
Advanced finishing techniques on the 42.6mm octagonal silver-tone stainless steel case showcase durability and elegance. The watch's textured blue dial may not appeal to everyone's taste. Reviewers disagree on whether the Citizen Series 8 890's movement (Caliber 9051) is a strong point due to differing comparisons (Grand Seiko vs. AP Royal Oak).
The Formex Reef GMT is widely praised for its unique porthole case shape, COSC-certified Sellita SW330-2 movement with good finishing, and comfortable quick-release bracelet with on-the-fly micro-adjustment. Reviewers note its robust construction, impressive specifications, and strong value proposition, with a slim 11.4mm profile accommodating 300m water resistance and an exhibition caseback. However, owners widely report the 53mm lug-to-lug span with male endlinks makes it too large for smaller wrists. Some find the bezel action stiff and potentially slippery, and a reviewer desired sharper finishing and edges, deeming the aesthetic too modernist. The GMT variant sacrifices a timing bezel unless swapped, and one owner notes sharp edges on the crown and crown guard. Overall, owners and reviewers highly rate the Formex Reef GMT for its exceptional value and well-executed features, particularly its bracelet system and COSC-certified movement.
The watch features a COSC-certified SW330-2 GMT movement, which is visible through a sapphire crystal display case back and beautifully decorated. The watch's water-resistance of up to 300m/1000ft is a notable feature. The 42mm diameter may be too large for smaller wrists.
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