Formex Launches a Modern and Accessible Military Watch, the Field Automatic

Formex is a Swiss brand that we’ve covered on various occasions at MONOCHROME for the simple reason that the brand offers distinctive designs and rather impressive content at accessible prices. Following the Reef and the Essence models, respectively a diver and a casual-sporty model, the brand now enters the market for military-inspired watches. And although there are some classic design elements, as well as cool vintage touches, this new Formex Field Automatic 41mm collection retains the basics: modern, sharp design, and excellent content/price ratio.

Since Formex’s new ownership in 2016, the Swiss brand has focused on delivering great watches packed with content at fair prices. With the Reef and the Essence, and even though these two are slightly pricier than the watch you’ll see today, Formex managed to bring innovative case construction and chronometer-rated movements. The addition of the Formex Field Automatic answers the need to add a solid field-inspired model, with slightly simplified construction, but of course, at an even more accessible price.

The design of the Formex Field Automatic is based on the sharp and contemporary codes used by the brand. The case isn’t the same as the Essence but still retains the overall inspiration. Even though it is meant to be a robust model, the Field Automatic remains relatively compact with a 41mm diameter, a 46.6mm lug-to-lug and a restrained height of 10.6mm. The 150-metre water-resistant case is equipped with a solid caseback and a sapphire crystal, and most importantly, is made of resistant and lightweight titanium grade 2. On top of that, a special hardening treatment makes it scratch- and fingerprint-resistant.

You could expect a military-inspired watch to come with earthy-toned dials, and Formex complies. But not only, as the Formex Field Automatic 41mm will be offered in no fewer than six colours – Charcoal, Petrol Blue, Ash Grey, Mahogany Red, Ultra Violet or Sage Green dial. The numbers and markers are recessed, while the outer chapter section is curved upwards. All the elements, including the non-reflecting brushed hands, are covered with old-radium SLN for a cool vintage vibe and a bright yellowish-green emission at night.

Inside the Formex Field Automatic titanium case is a tried-and-tested movement, the automatic Sellita SW200-1. This solid, reliable and precise movement runs at 4Hz and stores 38 hours of energy when fully wound. And if it’s not a fancy in-house calibre, it is known for being dependable and easy to service.

As with the dials, the Formex Field Automatic comes with several strap options. There’s a nylon velcro strap, available in blue and black, adding a mere 5 grams to the case. The leather straps, available in five different colours, come with Formex’s carbon composite clasp with a fine-adjustment system to adjust the strap length in 5 micro steps over 7mm. All straps can be changed without the use of any tools.

Availability & Price

All the watches from the Formex Field Automatic 41mm collection are now available from the brand’s website. Prices are USD 795 / EUR 740 on a Nylon strap or USD 945 / EUR 895 on a leather strap with a carbon adjustable clasp. For more details and orders, please visit the dedicated page at formexwatch.com.