Formex - History, Models and Owners' Reviews

This watch arrives at a time when my watchmaking knowledge has greatly improved, and with what I consider a sufficient understanding of the main price points and models on the market. I was therefore able to specifically research brands to choose a model at a reasonable price, with the following features: COSC, colored dial, contrasting hands, small diameter/thickness, all steel. So I found Formex, a small brand. Initially, I was thinking of going for a classic blue dial, but then, in a smaller format, I saw this mother-of-pearl blue dial. I gave it a try, and it was a very pleasant surprise. It changes a lot depending on the light: sometimes dolphin gray, sometimes petrol blue, or even a more classic blue. The horizontal lines add contrast, sometimes visible, sometimes barely visible. The text written in white appears or disappears depending on the angle of the light. The hands are always clearly visible. The bracelet also feels excellent to wear. Its half-link extension adjustment can be done with one hand. The polished edges on the links (generally square) create a stunning disco ball effect. The case is simple, 10.25mm thick, which I consider good for a 3-hand watch with a date display. Especially since there's a spring mechanism, allowing for a bit of flexibility when bending the wrist. A rather gimmicky mechanism, in my opinion, and not very useful. Since this watch arrived, I've changed my wearing habits (previously one for winter, one for summer). It's about alternating between my three as much as possible, so as to never run out of power. A fun exercise in watch management, I understand the importance of power reserve. In short, a watch that I love to look at for its dial and hands.

My favorite micro-brand! Formex is known for its quality products, and this Reef 42mm is no exception. With a flawless construction, this diver does the job and even more! Its innovative interchangeable bezel system really makes it a must-have! Indeed, you just have to unclip the bezel, by hand, no tools needed and it only takes about ten seconds maximum, and you completely change the look of your watch. I would like to point out that it is extremely reliable, once in place it does not move at all. The design is perfect, the time is extremely readable, and the strap is very comfortable, of great quality too, and the buckle with micro adjustment is simply perfect. Water-resistant to 300 m, COSC-certified chronometer movement, this diver is truly of flawless quality, and this is surely the reason why Formex is a micro brand on the rise. Simply superb.

Admittedly, the title of this review is mocking, but Formex, a Swiss micro brand with a generic name, is not here to joke around. Their "Essence Leggera" model, which is the latest addition to my collection, includes components that we generally only find on much more expensive models. For 1650 euros, Formex delivers a chronometer movement and therefore COSC certified, embedded in a carbon fiber case that brings a remarkable lightness to the wearer. Although the diameter of the watch is announced at 41mm in the SPEC, the latter seems less big on the wrist (which is not to displease me). For this model, Formex offers a variety of colors for this model. I opted for the "electric blue" which I find particularly sublime. Finally, I took the NATO strap that equips the basic watch. It is possible to opt for a leather, nylon or rubber strap but these alternatives will cost you 140 euros more.