11.2 mm on a 300 m watch! I am in! Have been wearing a Formex Essence for a couple years and it’s excellent. Long thought of getting an Oris… but that particular brand is not strong enough to overcome the quality and value of the Formex.
Impressive watch. The bracelet adjustments for sizing as well as the quick detach lugs is genius. The strap adjustments are excellent as well. The Sellita SW movement is a very good looking movement and it's accuracy just increases this watchs likeability. The dial is fantastic. With a bracelet and strap option as well as 2 bezel options, this watches price point is well worth it. I am liking everything about this watch including the name. In trying to explain it, I would just let the watch speak for itself. Really enjoyed this review. Thanks for sharing.
11:18 the Hemel looks bigger to me because of the way the bezel extends almost all the way to the edge. But yeah I’d like the Formex better at 40mm 9-3.
With the steel bezel and black leather strap it somehow gives me G-Shock MTG vibes but in much slimmer and overall less chunky case, which is very cool I think.
My Islander Republic GMT also features a Sellita SW330-2, not COSC certified, but runs at at +3 seconds per day. Best of all, it costs US$695. I simply cannot bring myself to look at other GMT watches.
I would be worried about banging my wrist up against something while I was out and losing that bezel. Great looking watch. Definitely better looking than the aquas imo.
I think they are great watches, but they put me in mind of German holidays, I am sure they would be great, but I’m still more likely to go to Italy or France instead. Watch brands with “ex” in them seem to do okay, at some point Rolex would have sounded clunky too. My problem is price, I’m just too tight to buy one
Interesting watch. I love the options, but I’d still go Oris I think. Actually looking at getting the Tissot seastar 2000 today. Mid month treat. Don’t tell the wife 😝
I own a Formex Reef (diver, not GMT) and also an Oris Divers 65 - the 40mm black dial with the funky Arabics. I love both of them, and they would make a perfect 2-watch collection for someone like me. I think Formex has techy vibes while Oris has, obviously, vintage vibes. History is clearly in Oris' favor, while value for money is nearly double or triple with Formex. Both brands are fantastic independent brands with lovely designs. That said, my next $1000+ watch is likely to be a Formex Essence 39 and not anything from Oris' catalog.
Hmm. This is the first Formex that really speaks to me design-wise. It just looks cool! I know they make fantastic watches with neat tech, but until now I haven't found anything that made me want one. With that said, I still go for the Oris :)
I just received my Formex Essence 39 one week ago, and therefore was thrilled to see you check the new Reef in your latest video. The build quality is beyond beautiful, and I am generally pleased. $1490.00 hurt, though. No doubt....
Very cool watch. Love the interchangeable bezel! The finishing looks great too. But, am I the only person that's just not interested in GMT complications? It's very much the rage at the moment, but it's just something I can't be bothered faffing around with.
From my perspective the Vanuatu looks quite a lot bigger. But that Formex is a cracker and apart from the polarizing name is very appealing. I think I'd spec it exactly the same way you did. Cheers!
i have the same one you do, plus the white gmt. Throw in several extra bezels and some straps and it's like having 6+ different watches. Adult horological Lego... excellent quality for sure.
Of course I’m gonna be on Team Oris, but the Formex is a very badass looking watch. I’m wondering though if the bezel has a chance of popping off and getting lost just from wearing it for daily tasks. Men are not the more graceful of the species you know…
Whilst I'm admittedly an Alpina fan, I do think the Seastrong pulls off the squared/winged case design the best. The Calanda edition is a more balanced take on this design, although the lume will be a bit poor because Alpina. The Gyre Edition with recycled plastic case is still the pick, just because its so light - about 90gms on a nato
Thanks Jody, I've been going back and forth with this GMT for quite a while. I have the Field with the Mahogany dial which I also quite like. Longines has no plans for a 40mm Spirit Zulu Time GMT so hopefully Formex does as you suggested.
I love Formex as a producer of amazingly engineered and designed watches with a ton of value for what you get. The lack of brand recognition is their own fault though. Sure watch nerds like us know of and appreciate the brand, but Je Public hasn't even heard of them. Timex, Citizen, Longines, Seiko and so many other brands have loud marketing and advertising programs. Formex-----Crickets. They have their watch game down, now they need to work on their marketing.
Every video I have seen regarding Formex watches has something to impress me. In this case it's the adjustability of the metal braclet and the deployant clasp on the leather strap.
What a great looking watch, and fabulous leather strap. I’d prefer the watch with or without the bezel. The graphics look very bold. Dare I say, more compelling than a Tudor diver for the money?
Jody, I'm pulling for Formex and have enjoyed several of their designs. This watch is to watches what a beige Toyota Camry is to cars. The Camry is recognized as a good choice, a reliable option composed of durable components and assembled with care. Generally, Camry owners can be satisfied knowing that though they paid more, they accomplished the goal of reliable day to day transportation - excitement be damned. At this price point, Formex would be wise to produce something for the heart, the eye, and the head. While I agree there is satisfaction in knowing I bought a thing of quality, if I'm the only person who knows it, it can be a deflating experience. I was a salesman in a previous era in my life. I was taught, " Son, you sell the sizzle, not the steak." I mention that here because this watch is a spec monster without the requisite sizzle.
It's a big boy alright, but looks to wear very well and maybe wears smaller than it's dimensions suggest, which is a sign of a great watch. As for the brand, I've no problem with it, like the new logo and their reputation of build quality and good components (the important stuff) great. And the name, to me it's good, no problem. I think people are putting too much weight on the name,especially when up against Oris and that to me is just because Oris has a long history and is more well known. I'd have a formex any day. Thanks for the reveiw.
Personally I don't care too much about brand...what I look for are features...Formex tick a lot of boxes BUT how I wish it has over 72 power reserve and True GMT, I would be all over it.👍
I like Formex. I have had my eye on them for awhile. I love their commitment to symmetry, although I don't care about a date complication. The problem with this watch is it is too 'busy'. All the unneeded details distract from quality and usefulness. So...nope for me on this one.
Oris is on my radar and so I was skeptical when you presented this as an alternative, but it looks really good. I noticed the date wheel matches the dial and I think I saw the bracelet has screwed links which is always nice. Lots to like here, I'm officially "Formex Curious"! 🙂
Morning jody, yeah I'm not sure which way I'd go, I'd like to think formex, but i love the original too on the day I'd go longines zulu in green and gold!
I wouldn't exchange my under 2k Ollech & Wajs p-104 for that Oris, not that I don't like the Oris or there's no value in it but it's definitely pricey if you don't love it unconditionally.
I'm going off the menu, and going with a Formex Essence. Never been the biggest fan of dive watches, and I'm still on the hunt for a GMT watch that does NOT look like a dive watch. (But, who am I kidding...I've never paid over about $600 for any watch, so my vote is null and void). 😁
Or for Max could give you the option to tell them how big your wrist is so the appropriate links can be included from the beginning even if it costs a little extra it's worth it
I think you are right on the Formex over the Oris. The design is a bit more original and the straps are what put it over the top for me. Look at the attention to detail in that bracelet. The micro adjust and the quick release use the same style push buttons. Does anyone else do that? This is also COSC, which I believe the Oris lacks.
From just the thumbnail I thought this was another inexpensive diver. But Jody has done a good job highlighting the quality. My main problem is that I find it hard paying > $1000 without a big name for resale purposes. Oris is well known, Formex not so much.
This looks like a very well made watch with great finishing, interesting design elements and some cool tech on display too. If they made this in a 39/40mm, I'd buy one almost immediately. You rarely see negative comments from Formex owners either. I think people but far too much emphasis on brands and cache in the watch world, I'd take this over an Oris all day long as it's has a lot more features that appeals to me
Short answer : Formex Formex love their Patek references. The dial of the 39 mm Essence is mightily inspired by a Lady Nautilus 7118 (not a bad inspiration, though) The Reef aesthetics just don’t click with me and it’s too big. I would also be worried about the removable bezel flying off when bumped into a door frame. But, knowing the build quality standards of Formex, it is Reef over Aquis for me.
Grew review Jody! If I was going for name/history I’d go with Oris but for the specs, interchangeability as well as what I like in terms of a dive watch, FORMEX hands down. I’ve been wanting a FORMEX Reef since I first saw you review one a couple of years ago.
The quality of both watches is good but the size is a bit much for a small wrist with both and I really don't like the fitted straps with Oris so formex it would be for me
Very nice watch, Jody. It's amazing how much effort Formex put into their watches. With Oris trying to move up market (and price) with their in-house movements, I think Formex could eat their lunch. I agree that the brand name is a bit of a hindrance; it sounds a bit like Timex, which is a fine watchmaker, but not a luxury brand. Sadly, I think this is a bit large for my wrist. Thanks for the video.
Handsome watch indeed. It’s one I would question the price of however. It’s worth more than 90 percent of the microbrands out there by far but its not quite worth what its selling for IMO. id say Formex need to be 20 -25 percent lower than the market price of the oris you mentioned to be at the right price. However Formex might be happy to sell far fewer watches at a higher price so I guess thats just call for them to make. Nice review as always Mr M.
Formex has everything on paper that I would like to see in a watch. But the design to me is a bit cluttered and overdone, I personally would go for the Christopher Ward Aquitaine GMT or the Oris Aquis. The Aquitaine is now a grail that I'm saving up for. It's been a hard decision between the Aquitiane and the Formex Reef but I think it's what I'd be happier with.
Ooooohhhh, rather brave on your part, Jody, declaring the Formex "Reef" to be a "better option," than the Oris "Aquis." I like it!! No room for fear in this business, but I do think I hear the pitchforks and chants of "off with his head," from the Oris Fanboys....LMAO😅!!! Please do keep up the great work, in all seriousness though. All the best. Cheers....
The BLDR odyssey freediver has a somewhat similar look but at less than 50% of the cost. But, the Formex does have some really interesting features. The ability to change bezels easily for a different style and the ease at which one can change straps is awesome. I feel like you are seeing where the money is going (don't forget the COSC certification too). Still, this is an expensive watch. I, personally, have a hard time spending more than 500 dollars for a dive watch as there are just so many great options and even if I expand the budget to $1000, even more alternatives become available. The name or branding doesn't bother me one bit. Formex makes a hell of a great watch.
This Video came a little bit too soon for me to comment. In June I will be at a Community Meeting where I will be able to get my hand on the complete Formex Collection and in July, we visit Formex in Biel. Looking forward to it and maybe can tell you after that, what I think about them. Greets from Germany 👋🏻
For me Formex has the edge, the Aquis has always felt like a cold boring watch. Still waiting for Formex to make a 39/40mm Reef diver and have an option of a 1-12 dial so it can be used as a GMT with the extra bezel. They would have my cash then!
Hi Jody, I’ve got one of the first Essence models from the Kickstarter campaign. I opted for the non-chronometer version and paid under 400 Euros with a steel bracelet and a leather strap. My only complaints are the original size of 43mm and, of course, the logo. A 40/20 would be the perfect size for the Formex cases. And I would prefer the new logo without the name on the dial. Best regards, Claus
I rather like this one. Sadly it will be outside my watch budget in this life, perhaps next time around! I don't usually like watches to be this large, but the machining and case finish really caught my eye. The strap and bezel changes seem really well thought through, though I would most likely settle in on one combination and stay with it. Brand recognition at this price point becomes important, so Formex needs to build its cache and these need to be seen on peoples' wrists. Because of that, I am willing to wear one for a year and say clever things about it. They can send it to me and I won't even charge them to wear it.
I've personally never had an issue with the formex name or branding (even the old logo) I am actually much more put off by Oris. Their logo really cheapens the look of their watches sometimes. Something about "O R I S" in the same font my phone uses by default makes the brand feel like a new, flash-in-the-pan microbrand rather than the historic one that it is. Wouldn't stop me from buying a big crown, though.
11.2 mm on a 300 m watch! I am in! Have been wearing a Formex Essence for a couple years and it’s excellent. Long thought of getting an Oris… but that particular brand is not strong enough to overcome the quality and value of the Formex.
Impressive watch. The bracelet adjustments for sizing as well as the quick detach lugs is genius. The strap adjustments are excellent as well. The Sellita SW movement is a very good looking movement and it's accuracy just increases this watchs likeability. The dial is fantastic. With a bracelet and strap option as well as 2 bezel options, this watches price point is well worth it. I am liking everything about this watch including the name. In trying to explain it, I would just let the watch speak for itself. Really enjoyed this review. Thanks for sharing.
I went for this Formex over the Oris due to the colour way/ options to interchange. I went the rubber strap as well as the steel!
11:18 the Hemel looks bigger to me because of the way the bezel extends almost all the way to the edge. But yeah I’d like the Formex better at 40mm 9-3.
Here endeth the lesson! Great vid Jody. I watch a lot of watch videos. May have said it before but in my opinion you are THE BEST! Merci!
I opted for the Venezianico Nereide Tungsteno with blue dial. Wonderful watch, same specs and about € 1.000 left in my pocket.
Would be interesting to see this against a Christopher Ward C60 gmt to see where the extra £1000+ is on the formex…
I' really diggin the rugged look and brushed finish plus its priced well so thanks for doing a proper video Jody!
With the steel bezel and black leather strap it somehow gives me G-Shock MTG vibes but in much slimmer and overall less chunky case, which is very cool I think.
I plan on getting every bezel
My Islander Republic GMT also features a Sellita SW330-2, not COSC certified, but runs at at +3 seconds per day. Best of all, it costs US$695. I simply cannot bring myself to look at other GMT watches.
I would be worried about banging my wrist up against something while I was out and losing that bezel. Great looking watch. Definitely better looking than the aquas imo.
Formex build quality is genuinely impressive.
I think they are great watches, but they put me in mind of German holidays, I am sure they would be great, but I’m still more likely to go to Italy or France instead. Watch brands with “ex” in them seem to do okay, at some point Rolex would have sounded clunky too. My problem is price, I’m just too tight to buy one
Ten points for the holiday analogy! 🤣
@My Cancer Journey I’ve subscribed, hope you’re feeling better.
Interesting watch. I love the options, but I’d still go Oris I think. Actually looking at getting the Tissot seastar 2000 today. Mid month treat. Don’t tell the wife 😝
I got the Tissot Seastar 2000 last year. Ok, it’s not a GMT but I don‘t/didn’t want one. 🤣👍🏼😎
Tissot got a boring dial. Hell, all Tissot have a boring dials.
@@bigboiganiga8356 tried any of the PRX series? Some of those are beautiful for the money.
@@bigboiganiga8356 Tapisserie in green boring? Buy a Hublot🤣
@@bigboiganiga8356 You must really enjoy your “smart” watch. 🥱
I own a Formex Reef (diver, not GMT) and also an Oris Divers 65 - the 40mm black dial with the funky Arabics. I love both of them, and they would make a perfect 2-watch collection for someone like me.
I think Formex has techy vibes while Oris has, obviously, vintage vibes. History is clearly in Oris' favor, while value for money is nearly double or triple with Formex. Both brands are fantastic independent brands with lovely designs.
That said, my next $1000+ watch is likely to be a Formex Essence 39 and not anything from Oris' catalog.
If I had the money to spend, I would definitely pick this over any other Swiss brand.
The attention to detail is something I like very much.
Hmm. This is the first Formex that really speaks to me design-wise. It just looks cool! I know they make fantastic watches with neat tech, but until now I haven't found anything that made me want one. With that said, I still go for the Oris :)
I just received my Formex Essence 39 one week ago, and therefore was thrilled to see you check the new Reef in your latest video. The build quality is beyond beautiful, and I am generally pleased. $1490.00 hurt, though. No doubt....
This watch looks great! I would only mention that the SW330 movement is not a true GMT but rather a caller GMT. Thanks again for another great review!
Very cool watch. Love the interchangeable bezel! The finishing looks great too. But, am I the only person that's just not interested in GMT complications? It's very much the rage at the moment, but it's just something I can't be bothered faffing around with.
I prefer the Oris or the Mido GMT’s. And the Tudor GMT is fantastic!
I’d pick the Oris..but the Formex is a great watch
I own one and have zero regrets. It's a wonderfully designed and machined watch which looks like nothing else.
I'd go for the formex and I would pop a dive timing bezel on it if possible.
From my perspective the Vanuatu looks quite a lot bigger. But that Formex is a cracker and apart from the polarizing name is very appealing. I think I'd spec it exactly the same way you did. Cheers!
i have the same one you do, plus the white gmt. Throw in several extra bezels and some straps and it's like having 6+ different watches. Adult horological Lego... excellent quality for sure.
The real reason I got this
I like the formex but if I was in the market for this style I would probably go for the monta skyquest. Horses for courses!
Great video, i agree with your summary and what a lovely watch, tooly but very refined, the wings work for me and make it stand out from the crowd.
Amazing looking watch. I would pick it over the Oris.
Should add links in description saying "Where I got this shirt"
This one and the Enterprise D from the last video are great!
Of course I’m gonna be on Team Oris, but the Formex is a very badass looking watch. I’m wondering though if the bezel has a chance of popping off and getting lost just from wearing it for daily tasks. Men are not the more graceful of the species you know…
Whilst I'm admittedly an Alpina fan, I do think the Seastrong pulls off the squared/winged case design the best. The Calanda edition is a more balanced take on this design, although the lume will be a bit poor because Alpina. The Gyre Edition with recycled plastic case is still the pick, just because its so light - about 90gms on a nato
Thanks Jody, I've been going back and forth with this GMT for quite a while. I have the Field with the Mahogany dial which I also quite like. Longines has no plans for a 40mm Spirit Zulu Time GMT so hopefully Formex does as you suggested.
A bit expensive for me but a lovely watch no doubt. Love the band and bezel options really cool
I love the Reef, I’m not getting the GMT, but I am buying a reef in green, with green bezel soon.😎
I loved that one but went with white so all bezels worked
I love Formex as a producer of amazingly engineered and designed watches with a ton of value for what you get. The lack of brand recognition is their own fault though. Sure watch nerds like us know of and appreciate the brand, but Je Public hasn't even heard of them. Timex, Citizen, Longines, Seiko and so many other brands have loud marketing and advertising programs. Formex-----Crickets. They have their watch game down, now they need to work on their marketing.
Every video I have seen regarding Formex watches has something to impress me. In this case it's the adjustability of the metal braclet and the deployant clasp on the leather strap.
This is a hella cool watch, I had never even heard of formex, I personally love the design and colors the whole package really. It screams solid.
What a great looking watch, and fabulous leather strap. I’d prefer the watch with or without the bezel. The graphics look very bold. Dare I say, more compelling than a Tudor diver for the money?
Jody, I'm pulling for Formex and have enjoyed several of their designs. This watch is to watches what a beige Toyota Camry is to cars. The Camry is recognized as a good choice, a reliable option composed of durable components and assembled with care. Generally, Camry owners can be satisfied knowing that though they paid more, they accomplished the goal of reliable day to day transportation - excitement be damned. At this price point, Formex would be wise to produce something for the heart, the eye, and the head. While I agree there is satisfaction in knowing I bought a thing of quality, if I'm the only person who knows it, it can be a deflating experience. I was a salesman in a previous era in my life. I was taught, " Son, you sell the sizzle, not the steak." I mention that here because this watch is a spec monster without the requisite sizzle.
It's a big boy alright, but looks to wear very well and maybe wears smaller than it's dimensions suggest, which is a sign of a great watch. As for the brand, I've no problem with it, like the new logo and their reputation of build quality and good components (the important stuff) great. And the name, to me it's good, no problem. I think people are putting too much weight on the name,especially when up against Oris and that to me is just because Oris has a long history and is more well known. I'd have a formex any day. Thanks for the reveiw.
I got the white dial. I love it. Say what you want, never been so excited for a watch and bezels. Lol and I have a Rolex.
I’d go Oris if only between the 2, but I’d choose a Ball or even cheaper the Mido GMT before either the Formex or Oris at their prices.
Personally I don't care too much about brand...what I look for are features...Formex tick a lot of boxes BUT how I wish it has over 72 power reserve and True GMT, I would be all over it.👍
If it was smaller I would go for it. I like the look of it.
I like Formex. I have had my eye on them for awhile. I love their commitment to symmetry, although I don't care about a date complication.
The problem with this watch is it is too 'busy'. All the unneeded details distract from quality and usefulness. So...nope for me on this one.
I really like this watch! Well done Formex.
This is one of the most stylish bling watches I've seen.
Oris is on my radar and so I was skeptical when you presented this as an alternative, but it looks really good. I noticed the date wheel matches the dial and I think I saw the bracelet has screwed links which is always nice. Lots to like here, I'm officially "Formex Curious"! 🙂
I was too. Then I pulled the trigger and glad I did
@@jasonkusters5607 glad you're enjoying your new watch! what do you most like about it?
@@michaelredding6219 love the bezel change, but really love how comfortably it wears
Morning jody, yeah I'm not sure which way I'd go, I'd like to think formex, but i love the original too on the day I'd go longines zulu in green and gold!
It's a very nice watch, smart of them to give the option of 3 timezones!
Hey Jody: Such a great looking watch but any danger of the bezel popping off you think?
Oris Whale shark, hands down no contest.
I wouldn't exchange my under 2k Ollech & Wajs p-104 for that Oris, not that I don't like the Oris or there's no value in it but it's definitely pricey if you don't love it unconditionally.
I was looking at oris and mido but I’m glad I got this one. Comfortable, fun, looks great, and butter smooth
I'm going off the menu, and going with a Formex Essence. Never been the biggest fan of dive watches, and I'm still on the hunt for a GMT watch that does NOT look like a dive watch. (But, who am I kidding...I've never paid over about $600 for any watch, so my vote is null and void). 😁
Nice Seiko Samurai case homage!
Or for Max could give you the option to tell them how big your wrist is so the appropriate links can be included from the beginning even if it costs a little extra it's worth it
I like it, good colour choices too Jody. I think this is my favourite watch from a washing powder manufacturer ever in fact.
Formex sounds like an industrial adhesive. Do like the watch though.
Love the Grogu t shirt!
I think you are right on the Formex over the Oris. The design is a bit more original and the straps are what put it over the top for me. Look at the attention to detail in that bracelet. The micro adjust and the quick release use the same style push buttons. Does anyone else do that?
This is also COSC, which I believe the Oris lacks.
Forget the watch…
The T-Shirt!!!!!! 👌👌
Whats the brand of those pink shorts around 10 mins in? They look really good!
Ahahha! French Connection!
Nice watch. Agree with your brand analysis and consequently would go with the Oris
From just the thumbnail I thought this was another inexpensive diver. But Jody has done a good job highlighting the quality. My main problem is that I find it hard paying > $1000 without a big name for resale purposes. Oris is well known, Formex not so much.
Nice watch, I have the same black/gilt/metal. Maybe a little big, but you can have all, do we?
This looks like a very well made watch with great finishing, interesting design elements and some cool tech on display too. If they made this in a 39/40mm, I'd buy one almost immediately. You rarely see negative comments from Formex owners either.
I think people but far too much emphasis on brands and cache in the watch world, I'd take this over an Oris all day long as it's has a lot more features that appeals to me
I tried on a Formex Essence at a watch show & it’s stunning!! It’s a shame there are no retail outlets to try them out
I love the look of this one. A seriously nice looking watch.
Short answer : Formex
Formex love their Patek references. The dial of the 39 mm Essence is mightily inspired by a Lady Nautilus 7118 (not a bad inspiration, though)
The Reef aesthetics just don’t click with me and it’s too big. I would also be worried about the removable bezel flying off when bumped into a door frame.
But, knowing the build quality standards of Formex, it is Reef over Aquis for me.
Grew review Jody! If I was going for name/history I’d go with Oris but for the specs, interchangeability as well as what I like in terms of a dive watch, FORMEX hands down. I’ve been wanting a FORMEX Reef since I first saw you review one a couple of years ago.
I feel in love with the GMT. Can’t wait for more bezels and straps
The quality of both watches is good but the size is a bit much for a small wrist with both and I really don't like the fitted straps with Oris so formex it would be for me
Yes. It’s a phenomenal watch for the money.
It’s a looker for sure. I personally don’t get the grief everyone gives formex for the name. Awesome stuff as always Jody
Very nice watch, Jody. It's amazing how much effort Formex put into their watches.
With Oris trying to move up market (and price) with their in-house movements, I think Formex could eat their lunch.
I agree that the brand name is a bit of a hindrance; it sounds a bit like Timex, which is a fine watchmaker, but not a luxury brand.
Sadly, I think this is a bit large for my wrist. Thanks for the video.
It sounds like Rolex too though.
Handsome watch indeed. It’s one I would question the price of however. It’s worth more than 90 percent of the microbrands out there by far but its not quite worth what its selling for IMO. id say Formex need to be 20 -25 percent lower than the market price of the oris you mentioned to be at the right price. However Formex might be happy to sell far fewer watches at a higher price so I guess thats just call for them to make. Nice review as always Mr M.
is this a True GMT or a caller GMT. Looks very good.
Compare it to the Zelos Thresher GMT. I have that in green and gold. Talk about chunky!
Formex has everything on paper that I would like to see in a watch. But the design to me is a bit cluttered and overdone, I personally would go for the Christopher Ward Aquitaine GMT or the Oris Aquis. The Aquitaine is now a grail that I'm saving up for.
It's been a hard decision between the Aquitiane and the Formex Reef but I think it's what I'd be happier with.
Ooooohhhh, rather brave on your part, Jody, declaring the Formex "Reef" to be a "better option," than the Oris "Aquis." I like it!! No room for fear in this business, but I do think I hear the pitchforks and chants of "off with his head," from the Oris Fanboys....LMAO😅!!! Please do keep up the great work, in all seriousness though. All the best. Cheers....
Fan of Formex and this brand is growing stronger .Great watch and the price are 👍
I do like Formex's Aqua Terra alternative. It's not as attractive as the Omega, but the price difference is nice 😆
Should call this one the transformex
If this was available in 40mm I would buy it tomorrow. Great video - many thanks
I dig the Formex’s G-Shock vibe 😏
As an owner of a Glycine Combat Sub, I can attest to how nice a larger watch can sit snug when it's thin and has lugs that are downturned.
Jody seems to like Formex, and they sound good, but they just don't pique my interest, I'd prefer an Oris !
The BLDR odyssey freediver has a somewhat similar look but at less than 50% of the cost. But, the Formex does have some really interesting features. The ability to change bezels easily for a different style and the ease at which one can change straps is awesome. I feel like you are seeing where the money is going (don't forget the COSC certification too).
Still, this is an expensive watch. I, personally, have a hard time spending more than 500 dollars for a dive watch as there are just so many great options and even if I expand the budget to $1000, even more alternatives become available.
The name or branding doesn't bother me one bit. Formex makes a hell of a great watch.
Grogu!
This Video came a little bit too soon for me to comment. In June I will be at a Community Meeting where I will be able to get my hand on the complete Formex Collection and in July, we visit Formex in Biel. Looking forward to it and maybe can tell you after that, what I think about them. Greets from Germany 👋🏻
I'd chose the Longines Zulu GMT personally
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Same, in the newly released 39 mm size.
@@TheInsicor didn't know it was out, might go have a look
I would prefer any GMT watch to this one. It looks terrible. Vostok GMT looks way cooler.
For me Formex has the edge, the Aquis has always felt like a cold boring watch. Still waiting for Formex to make a 39/40mm Reef diver and have an option of a 1-12 dial so it can be used as a GMT with the extra bezel. They would have my cash then!
Oris all day !
I just bought one. Arrives tomorrow. I’ll let you know
It came. Love it more
Lol, I now have 5 bezels and 4 straps! 20 different looks. I can’t express how much I love this watch.
Hi Jody,
I’ve got one of the first Essence models from the Kickstarter campaign. I opted for the non-chronometer version and paid under 400 Euros with a steel bracelet and a leather strap. My only complaints are the original size of 43mm and, of course, the logo. A 40/20 would be the perfect size for the Formex cases. And I would prefer the new logo without the name on the dial.
Best regards,
Claus
Jamie, please review the Duzu DW-D2! They're out of Perth.
I rather like this one. Sadly it will be outside my watch budget in this life, perhaps next time around!
I don't usually like watches to be this large, but the machining and case finish really caught my eye. The strap and bezel changes seem really well thought through, though I would most likely settle in on one combination and stay with it.
Brand recognition at this price point becomes important, so Formex needs to build its cache and these need to be seen on peoples' wrists. Because of that, I am willing to wear one for a year and say clever things about it. They can send it to me and I won't even charge them to wear it.
The name is to industrial,( metal racking),oris has more class.good video as always.
I really appreciate the engineering that goes into Formex watches, always felt the aquis looks a bit too stubby. Formex for me all day long
Yes
This truly is an awesome watch.
I've personally never had an issue with the formex name or branding (even the old logo)
I am actually much more put off by Oris. Their logo really cheapens the look of their watches sometimes.
Something about "O R I S" in the same font my phone uses by default makes the brand feel like a new, flash-in-the-pan microbrand rather than the historic one that it is.
Wouldn't stop me from buying a big crown, though.