Side by side

Formex Essence FortythreevsTissot Heritage 1938

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

Essence Fortythree
FormexEssence Fortythree
MSRP $1,850
Heritage 1938
TissotHeritage 1938
MSRP $925
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 Fortythree

Owners widely praise the Formex Essence Fortythree for its comfortable wearability, excellent finishing for its price point, and a dial that plays well with light, with one owner noting the blue dial's variable appearance. The bracelet's micro-adjust system is functional, and the leather strap and deployant are considered exceptional. Reviewers highlight the watch's legible design and slim 10mm case, noting its significant value under $1,300. Some find the dial design derivative and the hardware-style logo out of place, while others consider the white dial stark. Consumer confusion exists regarding COSC versus non-COSC movement options. On balance, owners and reviewers rate the Formex Essence Fortythree highly for its luxury-level finishing and comfortable, value-driven design.

Tissot Heritage 1938

Owners and reviewers widely praise the Tissot Heritage 1938 for its stunning vintage-inspired design and excellent value, particularly as a COSC-certified automatic under $1000. The dial's ability to catch light and subtly change colors, along with rosy gold numerals, is a frequent highlight. The watch uses a chronometer-certified ETA 2824-2 movement, though its 38-hour power reserve is noted as less than some contemporary offerings. Some owners find the 39mm case size appears larger on the wrist, with a desire for smaller options. Overall, owners rate the Tissot Heritage 1938 highly for its charming retro aesthetics and impressive chronometer movement at an accessible price point.

From video reviewers

The most attainable Swiss chronometer is a key strength. Reviewers did not agree on any weaknesses.

At a glance

12 of 29 specs differ
Diameter
Essence Fortythree43mm
Heritage 193839mm
Power Reserve
Essence Fortythree38h
Heritage 193838h
Water Resistance
Essence Fortythree100m
Heritage 193850m
MSRP
Essence Fortythree$1,850
Heritage 1938$925

Full specifications

Case

5 specs
Diameter
43mm
39mm
Thickness
10.6mm
11.1mm
Lug-to-Lug
49mm
39mm
Lug Width
22mm
20mm
Water Resistance
100m
50m

Crystal & Dial

5 specs
Crystal Shape
Flat
Domed
AR Coating
Inner
Yes
Dial Color
Black
Anthracite
Indices
Applied
Arabic
Lume
Super-LumiNova
None

Movement

1 specs
Caliber
Sellita SW200-1
11 1/2'''

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$1,850
$925
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