Experience the pinnacle of dive watch innovation with Formex's latest forged carbon masterpiece.
The Evolution of Formex's Reef Series: A Foundation of Innovation
Established in Biel/Bienne and reinvigorated by Raphaël Granito in 2016, Formex has carved a niche for itself through precision engineering, ergonomically designed cases, and modular components. Initially recognized for its motorsport heritage and patented suspension systems, the brand has progressively defined its distinct identity with the successful Essence and Reef collections. These lines consistently deliver expertly crafted timepieces featuring compelling technical attributes at an attractive price point. The Reef collection, first launched in 2020, stands out for its robust 300-meter water-resistant dive watches, which boast interchangeable bezels and straps, all powered by movements certified by COSC. The more compact 39.5mm 'Baby Reef' series, introduced in 2023, has quickly become a highly desirable everyday diver within the brand's offerings.
Introducing the Reef 39.5 Forged Carbon: A Distinctive Aesthetic Leap
The latest iteration, the Reef 39.5 Forged Carbon, advances this legacy by introducing a fresh visual dimension. While carbon is frequently chosen for its lightweight properties and performance benefits, Formex highlights its unique visual and textural qualities in this new model. Both the dial and the bezel are crafted from forged carbon, a material meticulously produced by compressing short carbon fibers under intense heat and pressure. Integrating this material necessitated innovative design adjustments. The dial features a refined vertical brushing over a specially treated base, retaining the signature beveled date window at the 6 o'clock position with intricate layering. The fully functional, 120-click dive bezel showcases numerals precisely engraved using a femtosecond laser and meticulously filled with lume by hand.
Unwavering Technical Performance and Enduring Craftsmanship
Despite its refreshed aesthetics, the core technical specifications of the timepiece remain consistent with the established high standards of the series. The applied indices and hands, coated with Super-LumiNova, guarantee excellent legibility in diverse lighting conditions. The watch's case measures 39.5mm in diameter with a slim 11mm profile and a 45.5mm lug-to-lug distance, ensuring a comfortable and balanced fit. It features a robust stainless steel exterior complemented by a titanium inner container. A protective guard shields the screw-down crown, and the watch is fitted with a sapphire crystal featuring an anti-reflective coating. The solid caseback further enhances its durability. With a water resistance rating of 300 meters, this timepiece is engineered for serious aquatic adventures.
The Precision Heart: COSC-Certified Movement
At the core of this exceptional timepiece is the COSC-certified Sellita SW300-1 automatic movement. This high-performance caliber serves as a reliable alternative to the well-regarded ETA 2892, known for its precision and durability. Operating at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour, the Sellita SW300-1 ensures accurate timekeeping. It provides a substantial 56-hour power reserve, offering extended functionality without the need for frequent winding. This certified chronometer movement underpins the watch's commitment to precision and reliability, essential attributes for any high-quality dive watch.
Adaptability and Exclusivity: Customization and Availability
The inherent versatility of the Reef series remains a defining characteristic. The innovative interchangeable bezel system allows owners to easily swap the forged carbon insert for alternative ceramic or steel options, providing diverse aesthetic choices. Additionally, a selection of quick-release straps, available in steel, rubber, leather, or nylon, can be paired with Formex's signature fine-adjustment clasps. This modularity offers unparalleled adaptability for everyday wear and various activities. The Reef 39.5 Forged Carbon model is available starting from EUR 1,960 for versions with a strap and EUR 2,070 for those with a bracelet. An initial limited production run of only 100 pieces ensures its exclusivity. For comprehensive details or to personalize your own timepiece, further information can be found on the official Formex websit