Formex Essence Owner Review : Soothing, modest and readable

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.