🛒 WATCHES FEATURED (Non-Affiliate Product Links) Formex Field Automatic ➡ bit.ly/FormexField Formex Essence 39 Automatic ➡ bit.ly/FormexEssence39 Lorus Titanium Watch ➡ geni.us/lorusrg877cx9 Thanks to Formex for loaning the Field for this review. Formex maintained no creative control over this content.
Comparing this to Casio Oceanus is like comparing a bicycle to a space ship. But with the twist that bicycle is still almost double the cost of the spaceship... which is mind blowing.
To be frank I don't think this watch is made for people like me who watch this channel for budget high quality finds, I think it's made for more niche watch collectors who want an extremely unique, innovative field watch.
@@DM-rc4yuit’s a field watch. The specs of the thing that people call a field watch is unbelievably specific. The amount of stuff you can do before it starts being called a sports watch is remarkably low.
All the credit to Formex for the great innovations they’ve been coming out with. I love the Essence and Reef, but I’m not really into the design language of the Field either. I think the price is pretty reasonable, but the design doesn’t really do anything for me.
I picked up a Boldr Venture during a sale for $250. It's not as well spec'd but has a vaguely similar titanium case, is a bit smaller, is better looking IMO and does the job.
I own the RZE Valour 38, which is roughly half the price of this one, and i’m just not sure i’d be willing to up make that jump for this watch. I do prefer the new Formex logo compared to their old one though!
I have an two Formex watches, well made, comfortable. This new field watch is very close in looks and spec's to a Swiss Watch USA model, which sells out constantly. While getting the Formex wouldn't be a mistake, better off with SWUSA especially if living in North America. Both companies have good customer service and support.
Formex is good calue at any of their models. The Essence 39 is one of the most affordable cosc watches on the market. On top of that, they managed to come out with some original designs
Really wish this model came with a Power Reserve feature. I'm currently on my 3rd Automatic watch, and my 4th one WILL have that feature before I part with my money.
I'm not the biggest fan of the font used for the digits but I really like the overall design of the watch. Especially the matt gray metal. For my taste, it could also be a bit thinner but I think it's still nice
I bought a second hand black dial version as I wasn't willing to pay retail either. I really like it. Took it on hikes and it actually performs well - light, comfy, legible (without my readers), and not worried about scratching it. However, it does wear smaller than "41mm."
The $1300 Formex Essence looks like a $100 Casio Edifice! I like the look of the less expensive one, though no crown guard seems like a major oversight on a "field" watch.
Agreed! I wouldnt touch one with a 10ft barge pole! And they are WAY overpriced for what you are getting. Plus its just ugly I'd take a Hamiliton Khaki over this any day.
I don't really see the resemblance beyond an extremely squinty comparison... The Essence in the flesh looks and feels like a far more expensive watch than it is - the Casio, whilst very good for the price, is very clearly not in the same universe. Both are great value for their respective pricepoints - the Essence is a heck of a lot of watch.
Love everything about this watch. Looks like a different take on a field watch. Feels refreshing. Unfortunately it´s just too big for my wrist. Great video.
great watch in so many aspects . i will chose this over any non screw down crown hamilton khaki fields any day! which is way overhyped by many big name internet watch personalities
For that price - No. Especially as others have pointed out there are cheaper, more legible dials, out there. Also as we are entering a time when we will all be counting the pennies, I for one, could not justify it. Nor, would I put in on my Christmas wish list but thanks for the content though Ben. 👍
I do like fauxtina, but it is crap for legibility - got a Hamilton Murph a couple of weeks ago, I expected a nice big uncluttered dial to be easy to read, but it really isn't! So I do like this design but it's a pass for me. Excellent review as always, thank you Ben 👍🏻👍🏻
I do like the design, actually. Maybe it's the color scheme, but I have a soft spot for layered dials like this in general. The price puts it well out of reach for me, though, and it's not quartz. I've thought about picking up a Seiko 5 just to try out an automatic, but quartz is my preference.
I rather like the look of the watch overall. The font choice is commendable for being different if not truly legible. The price point is above what I want to spend for a real 'knock-about' field watch.
Ben I've followed your channel from the early days including your other hair product channels, always look forward to any new posts, keep up the good work 👍
I'm assuming this is a "desk field watch" since they've obviously put form over function. Can't say I care for the sandwich dial, it looked better outside in the sun, but still, it's not great for reading at a glance. Also, IMO a field watch should have the 13-24 numbers inside of the main 1-12 ring. But then again who am I kidding, I don't sit at a desk so when I want a field watch I go with either a G-Shock or a Pro-Trek.
I'd love to see your take on a Pook Watch (Finnish microbrand) military watch "Torni II" with Miyota 8215 Movement, OR "Rokka" with Seiko VK64... or any other model btw, from this brand. They produce, in my view, good and personal looking watches at fairly reasonable prices in small patches. My personal favorite is actually "Nitrogen". It's funky and also cheapest model on top of that. Interesting brand that's quite a bit under the radar. In my perception at least. I found this brand only two days ago. I'd personally would love to see educated look and review here ;)
I have been able to handle a few watches from Formex and IMO their stand out tech is their clasp systems. Extremely well engineered and they work great.
Formex is an interesting company with interesting and innovate pieces but with this one, I'm just not quite sure. There are many similar options out there, the RZE, Boldr, etc., that are very similar and can be had for significantly less. The question is will this do anything different or bring you more joy than those to justify the money? In my opinion, no.
I love my Mahony dial field watch (great lume too) but had to spring for their nylon Velcro watch strap because I just couldn't get the right fit with their self-adjusting leather clasp.
good honest review. I think you are going to find a lot of Brands are going to be coming out with Cheaper watches. The Economy is slowing down dramatically, people will not spend as much anymore. Keep up the good work.
Good review. When it comes to field watches I always compare with the Hamilton Khaki Field auto 38mm which can be had for much less than this. As you say there are many others much cheaper which do the job. Nice watch shame about the price.
It looks like the people have spoken and Formex has priced themselves out of the market. Although I think they deserve a lot of credit for the design they came up with. I love what they did with the numerals on the dial.
I like the fields design. Just to Skater color theme. I’d love to see a more versatile color, I like the change but just to far. I do love the Formex reef GMT!
I think the model is fairly priced, especially if you get the clasp variant. Its amazing, innovative and a benchmark to which other microbrands should strive for.
Seems crazy expensive for a titanium field watch. And while many watch enthusiasts are drawn to mechanical movements, in a field watch designed for rugged use, a quartz movement will be far, far more durable, reliable, and affordable. Bertucci make some of the best affordable titanium field watches for a fraction of the price of this Formex.
As always a nice and informative video, Ben, thanks for that! I like the watch cause of its well considered detail solutions and the cool colorrange. And for a pure field watch its not so boring as a Hamilton Khaki! I am looking forward to your next videos, so go on 👍
Would you consider reviewing Seiko mod kits for quality (getting a premium look with some effort?), and smart watch (apple) cases which are supposed to give you a premium watch feel for a smartwatch? Both are such murky areas for newbies!
For me, a field watch has to be pretty special to command a price like this. The Vostok Komandirskie hand wind 211783 is out there as a rugged field beater with proper heritage after all. Only other field watch that has caught my eye is the Hamilton Khaki Field in bronze, that's a nice looker.
I agree with this. I think the most I'd be spending on a field watch any time soon is the titanium Bertucci A2T "Vintage" with sapphire and 200m of water resistance. Sure it's quartz for $220 regular MSRP, but I think on sale- it's a hell of a deal.
Nor keen on this one as it think it fails several of my specs for a field watch, and isn't good looking enough for dressier use. The dial is its main fail, as you can't see the time at a glance. It does.t have a secondary ring of GMT numbers. The faux antique lume, looks out of place and would look better/ be more visible in white. The hands are too similar and the hour hand needs to be beefed up to differentiate it. My preferred size for a field watch is between 36 - 38mm, at 41mm it is just too big. Would also like to see a better selection of straps available - NATO/rubber/tungsten bracelet. At £700 on Velcro, it's just not doing it for me. However, I love the Reef, and should they decide to make one in a 40mm case I'll snag one straight away.
I think Ben has found what he want in his watch fanatic journey. The man cant stop saying "Casio Oceanus" when talking about another watch. Ben remind me of my wife who cant stop talking about her boyfriend when she is talking to me.
Hi Ben, maybe you know about this watch or maybe you don't...most probably you do, but what do you think about Timex Expedition North® Titanium Automatic 41mm Eco-Friendly Leather Strap Watch Titanium case, 41mm and Titanium buckle. Saphire glass front and back?!? Not sure about back.... Automatic movement ( not sure which one) but apparently is hand winding and hacking as well, if it is Oauuu .... Eco leather strap....Nice 🙂 Water resistant 200m , screw down crown. And the price is Insane 329£, is this for real?!? I mean where else can find something similar for the price! This is Insane. Will love to share your opinion on this watch with us. Thanks.
It's a nice watch and looks well made and it is probably worth the money, but as you say at that price there are a lot of watches worthy of that kind of money.
I own and love the Formex Reef (owned it for about 2 years now), but this one doesn't do it for me. I'd rather pick up a Boldr for this style of watch.
If this was $399 ya maybe but still I wouldn't. It's an ungly looking watch. Longines VHP Quartz is about $700 which is a great value imo. Also Hamilton has other options. Seiko, Casio, Orient plz..
hey Ben! i was wondering if you could make a review video with your honest opinion on Helson sharkdiver brass version. i was looking to buy one but there isnt any decent and trustworthy reviews out there to check :D
Where can I find a strap like this nylon one? I’ve been looking for one like this for months, but all the ones I find have weird plastic end points that hold the springbar
I think there are better watches out there Cheaper RZE Valour 38 BOLDR Ventur Islander Mitchel Automatic Field Watch More Expensive Hamilton Khaki Field Auto
That clasp on the leather strap looks incredibly thick, seems like an over engineered solution to a problem that doesn’t really exist. Don’t really see why you’d spend nearly a grand on this when you can get a Hamilton for 350….
🛒 WATCHES FEATURED (Non-Affiliate Product Links)
Formex Field Automatic ➡ bit.ly/FormexField
Formex Essence 39 Automatic ➡ bit.ly/FormexEssence39
Lorus Titanium Watch ➡ geni.us/lorusrg877cx9
Thanks to Formex for loaning the Field for this review. Formex maintained no creative control over this content.
Comparing this to Casio Oceanus is like comparing a bicycle to a space ship. But with the twist that bicycle is still almost double the cost of the spaceship... which is mind blowing.
Haha, you had me in the first half
Casio is a league of its own. Nothing compares.
To be frank I don't think this watch is made for people like me who watch this channel for budget high quality finds, I think it's made for more niche watch collectors who want an extremely unique, innovative field watch.
If this is "extremely unique and innovative" then the bar is set very, very low.
@@DM-rc4yuit’s a field watch. The specs of the thing that people call a field watch is unbelievably specific. The amount of stuff you can do before it starts being called a sports watch is remarkably low.
All the credit to Formex for the great innovations they’ve been coming out with. I love the Essence and Reef, but I’m not really into the design language of the Field either. I think the price is pretty reasonable, but the design doesn’t really do anything for me.
I picked up a Boldr Venture during a sale for $250. It's not as well spec'd but has a vaguely similar titanium case, is a bit smaller, is better looking IMO and does the job.
That's a much, much better value tbh.
I prefer Boldr too
@@acomingextinction not really, their expedition with the same movement as the Formex is also priced the same.
thats better value honestly and gives the same vibe as this formex but for much better value ironically ben has reviewed that watch also llol
I own the RZE Valour 38, which is roughly half the price of this one, and i’m just not sure i’d be willing to up make that jump for this watch. I do prefer the new Formex logo compared to their old one though!
No comparison.
This is a stunner
I love this watch
The approach was to not make a boring Feild watch like the types of Hamilton
Great job Formex
I have an two Formex watches, well made, comfortable. This new field watch is very close in looks and spec's to a Swiss Watch USA model, which sells out constantly. While getting the Formex wouldn't be a mistake, better off with SWUSA especially if living in North America. Both companies have good customer service and support.
Formex is good calue at any of their models. The Essence 39 is one of the most affordable cosc watches on the market. On top of that, they managed to come out with some original designs
Really wish this model came with a Power Reserve feature. I'm currently on my 3rd Automatic watch, and my 4th one WILL have that feature before I part with my money.
I'm not the biggest fan of the font used for the digits but I really like the overall design of the watch. Especially the matt gray metal. For my taste, it could also be a bit thinner but I think it's still nice
I bought a second hand black dial version as I wasn't willing to pay retail either. I really like it. Took it on hikes and it actually performs well - light, comfy, legible (without my readers), and not worried about scratching it. However, it does wear smaller than "41mm."
I love my Essence 39, and can confirm that it is very comfortable, but I can’t say that this Field does anything for me either… glad it exists though
The $1300 Formex Essence looks like a $100 Casio Edifice! I like the look of the less expensive one, though no crown guard seems like a major oversight on a "field" watch.
Agreed! I wouldnt touch one with a 10ft barge pole! And they are WAY overpriced for what you are getting. Plus its just ugly I'd take a Hamiliton Khaki over this any day.
I don't really see the resemblance beyond an extremely squinty comparison... The Essence in the flesh looks and feels like a far more expensive watch than it is - the Casio, whilst very good for the price, is very clearly not in the same universe.
Both are great value for their respective pricepoints - the Essence is a heck of a lot of watch.
Best watch channel. 0% hypocrisy.
I love it. Offer it without the patina lume and I'd own one.
Love everything about this watch. Looks like a different take on a field watch. Feels refreshing. Unfortunately it´s just too big for my wrist. Great video.
great watch in so many aspects . i will chose this over any non screw down crown hamilton khaki fields any day! which is way overhyped by many big name internet watch personalities
Day off? Hot coffee? New Ben video? Let me go get some toast. 😃
For that price - No. Especially as others have pointed out there are cheaper, more legible dials, out there. Also as we are entering a time when we will all be counting the pennies, I for one, could not justify it. Nor, would I put in on my Christmas wish list but thanks for the content though Ben. 👍
I do like fauxtina, but it is crap for legibility - got a Hamilton Murph a couple of weeks ago, I expected a nice big uncluttered dial to be easy to read, but it really isn't! So I do like this design but it's a pass for me.
Excellent review as always, thank you Ben 👍🏻👍🏻
I do like the design, actually. Maybe it's the color scheme, but I have a soft spot for layered dials like this in general. The price puts it well out of reach for me, though, and it's not quartz. I've thought about picking up a Seiko 5 just to try out an automatic, but quartz is my preference.
Your doing yourself a nasty by not trying a seiko snk..
I rather like the look of the watch overall. The font choice is commendable for being different if not truly legible. The price point is above what I want to spend for a real 'knock-about' field watch.
Interesting content. Keep up the good work on your channel. Regards, WR4K.
Ben I've followed your channel from the early days including your other hair product channels, always look forward to any new posts, keep up the good work 👍
Nice watch but similar to other field watches that have the same features but at lower cost (SWC bunker).
And they sell out regularly. Also less expensive.
I'm assuming this is a "desk field watch" since they've obviously put form over function. Can't say I care for the sandwich dial, it looked better outside in the sun, but still, it's not great for reading at a glance. Also, IMO a field watch should have the 13-24 numbers inside of the main 1-12 ring. But then again who am I kidding, I don't sit at a desk so when I want a field watch I go with either a G-Shock or a Pro-Trek.
I'd love to see your take on a Pook Watch (Finnish microbrand) military watch "Torni II" with Miyota 8215 Movement, OR "Rokka" with Seiko VK64... or any other model btw, from this brand. They produce, in my view, good and personal looking watches at fairly reasonable prices in small patches. My personal favorite is actually "Nitrogen". It's funky and also cheapest model on top of that. Interesting brand that's quite a bit under the radar. In my perception at least. I found this brand only two days ago. I'd personally would love to see educated look and review here ;)
Was just watching another video and was wondering why the prices were said in dollars and here's Ben explaining why! Top video as ever👍
i would love for you to review spinnaker! Their watches are amazing and at a great price range. i would like to hear what you have to say about them
The “perceived thickness” bit was a great gag! 😂
You should totally review the Casio aq800e
RZE will do for me instead, comfortably and economically. Also sleeker and less cluttered.
I have been able to handle a few watches from Formex and IMO their stand out tech is their clasp systems. Extremely well engineered and they work great.
I actually really like this one . Especially the type face and colours. It’s a bit bladerunner logo-ish
I gave this watch serious consideration. In the end I went with a Damasko DS30.
You did good!
Formex is an interesting company with interesting and innovate pieces but with this one, I'm just not quite sure. There are many similar options out there, the RZE, Boldr, etc., that are very similar and can be had for significantly less. The question is will this do anything different or bring you more joy than those to justify the money? In my opinion, no.
I love my Mahony dial field watch (great lume too) but had to spring for their nylon Velcro watch strap because I just couldn't get the right fit with their self-adjusting leather clasp.
good honest review. I think you are going to find a lot of Brands are going to be coming out with Cheaper watches. The Economy is slowing down dramatically, people will not spend as much anymore. Keep up the good work.
Good review. When it comes to field watches I always compare with the Hamilton Khaki Field auto 38mm which can be had for much less than this. As you say there are many others much cheaper which do the job. Nice watch shame about the price.
great video. lots of info. thank you.
I could have sworn I watched a review you made of the Formex Essence...
I LOVE how this thing looks. Different strokes
I understand the appeal of titanium, but personally if I'm shelling out for a watch I want to feel it on my wrist.
It looks like the people have spoken and Formex has priced themselves out of the market. Although I think they deserve a lot of credit for the design they came up with. I love what they did with the numerals on the dial.
I like it. I think it has a luxurious look
I like the fields design. Just to Skater color theme. I’d love to see a more versatile color, I like the change but just to far. I do love the Formex reef GMT!
It does look good. But I agree. At the price I think there are better value options out there.
This video is a way for Ben to showcase his growing wealth over the years. Humble flex.
I want a minimum of 70 hours power reserve. 42 hours is not enough. Silicon spring.
I think the model is fairly priced, especially if you get the clasp variant. Its amazing, innovative and a benchmark to which other microbrands should strive for.
That buckle is genius. I need one of those.
Seems crazy expensive for a titanium field watch. And while many watch enthusiasts are drawn to mechanical movements, in a field watch designed for rugged use, a quartz movement will be far, far more durable, reliable, and affordable. Bertucci make some of the best affordable titanium field watches for a fraction of the price of this Formex.
I do like the look of it and I like the numbers, but I won't be paying £800 and odd for a field watch anytime soon.
I think the purple one is the best pick since there aren’t many purple watches on the market
Hello, great review - but have you forgot the LUT/color grading on your footage? The color looks washed out compared to the screenshots
As always a nice and informative video, Ben, thanks for that! I like the watch cause of its well considered detail solutions and the cool colorrange. And for a pure field watch its not so boring as a Hamilton Khaki! I am looking forward to your next videos, so go on 👍
Would you consider reviewing Seiko mod kits for quality (getting a premium look with some effort?), and smart watch (apple) cases which are supposed to give you a premium watch feel for a smartwatch? Both are such murky areas for newbies!
Hello, not sure if this is the rate place to post this. What are you opininion on Code 41 and the Mecascape? Gimmick or real quality?
It really brings the Boldr Venture to mind for me.
Formex is not a cheap Charlie option, but for quality, function and design are top notch
For me, a field watch has to be pretty special to command a price like this. The Vostok Komandirskie hand wind 211783 is out there as a rugged field beater with proper heritage after all. Only other field watch that has caught my eye is the Hamilton Khaki Field in bronze, that's a nice looker.
I agree with this. I think the most I'd be spending on a field watch any time soon is the titanium Bertucci A2T "Vintage" with sapphire and 200m of water resistance. Sure it's quartz for $220 regular MSRP, but I think on sale- it's a hell of a deal.
@@gentensworld yeah, a field watch should be a good daily. something tough that you don't mind getting visibly worn. it's not a dress watch
Nor keen on this one as it think it fails several of my specs for a field watch, and isn't good looking enough for dressier use. The dial is its main fail, as you can't see the time at a glance. It does.t have a secondary ring of GMT numbers. The faux antique lume, looks out of place and would look better/ be more visible in white. The hands are too similar and the hour hand needs to be beefed up to differentiate it. My preferred size for a field watch is between 36 - 38mm, at 41mm it is just too big.
Would also like to see a better selection of straps available - NATO/rubber/tungsten bracelet. At £700 on Velcro, it's just not doing it for me. However, I love the Reef, and should they decide to make one in a 40mm case I'll snag one straight away.
I think Ben has found what he want in his watch fanatic journey. The man cant stop saying "Casio Oceanus" when talking about another watch. Ben remind me of my wife who cant stop talking about her boyfriend when she is talking to me.
today i was thinking that i wont buy a watch online from a store before i visit the official site of the brand first, to confirm its dimensions. lol
Hi Ben, maybe you know about this watch or maybe you don't...most probably you do, but what do you think about Timex Expedition North® Titanium Automatic 41mm Eco-Friendly Leather Strap Watch
Titanium case, 41mm and Titanium buckle.
Saphire glass front and back?!? Not sure about back....
Automatic movement ( not sure which one) but apparently is hand winding and hacking as well, if it is Oauuu ....
Eco leather strap....Nice 🙂
Water resistant 200m , screw down crown.
And the price is Insane 329£, is this for real?!? I mean where else can find something similar for the price! This is Insane. Will love to share your opinion on this watch with us. Thanks.
It's a nice watch and looks well made and it is probably worth the money, but as you say at that price there are a lot of watches worthy of that kind of money.
Thank you for all of your videos that you did.
No reason to get this when SWC offers the Bunker.
they should make one in stainless steel and bring the price down a bit more
I own and love the Formex Reef (owned it for about 2 years now), but this one doesn't do it for me. I'd rather pick up a Boldr for this style of watch.
If this was $399 ya maybe but still I wouldn't. It's an ungly looking watch. Longines VHP Quartz is about $700 which is a great value imo. Also Hamilton has other options. Seiko, Casio, Orient plz..
I want the purple one.
why are you comparing it with quartz watches? just wondering.
hey Ben! i was wondering if you could make a review video with your honest opinion on Helson sharkdiver brass version. i was looking to buy one but there isnt any decent and trustworthy reviews out there to check :D
Seiko baby alpinist is around the same price. It isn't titanium but as a daily watch I'd say ot is a MUCH nicer watch
A little expensive perhaps (?)
Especially a Bulova Hack for half the price or even a Hamilton. They may not be titanium, but does really matter?
So basically the same as the SWC Bunker watch, but for twice the price.
So what's a good brand orient,seiko,citizen,cassio?
Another solid review
Ben have you seen the nieuw casio release, and can you make a review?
This or khaki field titanium? Pls advise
It's a nice dial, and an interesting case, but I don't think it's worth almost £800. I'd either go for something cheaper, or more expensive.
THANKS for the work
Ben, please review the Lilienthal chronograph watch
It sucks that the Hamilton exists cause that’s obviously the way better cheaper option
Where can I find a strap like this nylon one? I’ve been looking for one like this for months, but all the ones I find have weird plastic end points that hold the springbar
Solid info
Panerai use the sandwich dial
I love the reef, the essence is OK but I just don't get this watch.
I think there are better watches out there
Cheaper
RZE Valour 38
BOLDR Ventur
Islander Mitchel Automatic Field Watch
More Expensive
Hamilton Khaki Field Auto
Please review timex essex ave thin
Field watch $1000.....there are lots of good field watch. Hamilton, Bulova,seiko
Timex are good. RZE,
Can anyone on here tell me if undone watches worth the price or a waste of money? Trying to find my first watch
boldr be a better buy !
Still waiting on the Spaghetti Scameti review.
Way too expensive for what it is.
That clasp on the leather strap looks incredibly thick, seems like an over engineered solution to a problem that doesn’t really exist. Don’t really see why you’d spend nearly a grand on this when you can get a Hamilton for 350….
I actually really like this one but at the same time I don't think we can describe it as affordable...definitely more affordable however