I’ll have to take your word for it mate. They’re both way outside of my price range. It is a stunning watch though. On a positive note, Casio America is finally selling the ABL 100 (edit) correction. It still is not. Balls… off to find one close to MSRP. Wish me luck…
As a former Omega Seamaster 300m NTTD owner, and still an Omega lover, I struggle with the skeleton hands which give poor contrast to the dial, especially on the NTTD. That formex looks lovely, hard to comment if it feels as well made without handling it. The real gap between premium brands and brands such as for ex is clearly narrowing. Ultimately, brand will continue to influence choice, as these are emotional decisions and people buy what they love. Not sure the specifications really matter.( power reserves? Accuracy?) looks like a fun watch you wont get bored of. (I find changing a strap often makes a watch feel fresh) never mind all the other stuff on this formex you can change.
I'm an Omega lover as well and own quite a few, incl Speedy, an SMP and several vintage models. But I also had to flip my NTTD since it just wasn't legible enough for the type of watch it is meant to be. Big Formex fan too - have a pilot Chrono (love the 7-link bracelet) and an Essence Forty Three COCAB Limited Edition (also a fabulous strap and clasp on that model.) 😀
I tend to agree on the packaging. My current most expensive watch is a Squale 1521, I paid a tick over £900 for, and the packaging of that watch beats the hell out of that Formex packaging. I also don’t care much for packaging but I definitely see your point.
Yeah, my $1100usd Longines beats it too but honestly, I really don't care at all about the box. As long as it keeps the watch safe and secure for shipping, I'm ok with it.
Have this is the 42 and LOVE it. Gets more wear than my Omega (and Monta, etc..), though less than my Rolex. Reminds me of a vintage Vacheron. Still need to get the rubber but the bracelet is so nice I have not felt the need.
I didn't think one could actually innovate on an obsolete technology, but Formex somehow managed to. I don't care for microbrands, but this watch is amazing. It should be a future icon.
I have a Seamaster, Datejust, and Submariner. Yet I always tend to find myself wearing the formex essence 39 a lot. Granted the bracelet doesn’t have that super luxurious feel of the Rolex’s or Omegas, however it’s super comfy and I love the dials! Throw the price point in aswell, they are a fantastic bit of kit with a lot going for them!
Good video, but I disagree. I purchased my Omega SM300 in green last week. It's banging. No regrets! Not sure it's the best comparison based on pricing, but I understand the principle. Keep up the good work.
I really love Formex…no knock to Zelos, but Firmex seems like a high end Zelos with their design style. I love their innovation, very refreshing that they forward think.
I must be the only one who hates the flange on the left side of the case. Everyone raves about the Reef--and I get it--but I just can't unsee that flange. It's like a 3rd arm.
Happy to see their watches getting attention on here. I want to see one in person but COSC certified and how well they look in video, for under $2k, man what is not to love. Would love to add a reef to my collection.
Thats one of the best looking best crafted watches ive seen in many years - I like the removable bezel idea, but the idea of possibly losing it is a serious concern, unless you wanted to change colors there wouldnt be any reason to even take it off.
Nice review ! As a diver, I would never buy a watch with a bezel that could detach that easily. If you're timing a dive and that bezel pops off, for any reason, you can no longer time your dive, plus, I would want a nice solid, tight bezel action, which that watch doesn't appear to have. Lot of great features and certainly a beautiful watch. Would also be nice to see a 44mm version and a display case back for my $2K
This seems like really good value for money - especially with that awesome bracelet. I just wish they had a more classic/vintage style design in their lineup.
Know these peel-off bezels from Tissot. Though well made, I tell you you WILL lose them. At this price point I'd rather get an Oris. Great review anyway Russ 🧡 Cheers!
Love the channel. Have a look at Hanhart . I know you love vintage inspired watches and their chronographs are from their 1950,s design . Small independent German brand with great heritage and much loved by the actor Steve McQueen the king of cool . Keep up the good work, All the best , Chris Gilling.
Well having handled around 30 Seamaster’s and had them on my wrist from titanium’s to 300 professionals ….. I respectfully disagree Formex can’t beat Seamaster’s history however the current Seamaster’s design is only as old as the 90’s ! That design does not do the Seamaster legacy justice in my book.
At the end of the day omega is a household name that will always be desirable and associated with quality. Formex is an unknown brand to 99% of people and will never have the interest or desirability
Russell I considered the REEF 39mm, but went with the Essence 39mm in Degrade, brown dial. Absolutely stunning watch! I got it on the bracelet but opted also for their rubber strap which is incredible. The REEF is still on my radar.😎👍🏼
I'm liking the quick change bezels. Surely someone else thought of that before now. Looks way better in the rubber IMO. Box lets it down, I chuck em anyway and commit to the watch, not resale.
Gorgeous watch , I really do like it , I'd go for the 42mm , I think I prefer the stainless steel bezel. It's £2,225 for the watch and the stainless steel bezel. If I had the money, I think I would have this watch tbh, I really like the bronze dial.
Even as a space exploration and James Bond fan I just can’t connect with Omega, every time I try one on I find myself finding faults with the watches even though they look amazing. Can’t quite put my finger on it
One movement is, to modern standards, inaccurate; the other is slightly more or less inaccurate, depending. One is relatively easy to get serviced at a relatively low price; the other is not so much. Horses for courses, but ultimately depends which brand you want on your wrist.
Been watching your videos for a while now and was inspired to start a collection. Started with the MAMACOO, its specs for price and clean looks, now am looking for a dress watch to add.
I love the red Essence and have come close to buying a couple of times. As for the packaging; Formex do sell a 'Premium Wooden Watch Box' for AU $99 (about $60 US), so if cardboard keeps the watch price lower, that's a good thing.
Fabulous piece of engineering my only concern would be how long before that bezel gets loose on its attachment and then falls off or is knocked off ? But the finish and style looks brilliant and the dial well amazing!
I’ve been eyeballing Formex for some time now. This one is beautiful. I don’t know if you ever sell any of these, but I might be interested in it if you did.
A lot of watch, with a lot of features for a reasonable price. It’s a fair comparison to a Seamaster, but I don’t know if I’d go so far as better. We’d have to agree on a metric of ‘better’.
As always, great video. The watch is freakin beautiful but just a few minutes in before knowing it was interchangeable I thought "not keen on the overhang on the bezel".. I do like the ability to customize, I owned one in the past with that feature and it was fun but the bezel locked in place. I think that overhang would be a guarantee to lose at least one and might be a deal-breaker for me which is a shame cause I love the design besides.
Definitely a great looking piece. The thing I think that hurts this is the changing abilities! The reason many watch collectors as you know is the liove story that grows with the piece, the individual that wears it gives the watch it's soul.. The bezel looks, like you said, extremely light and way to easy to pop off.. For the money I don't really see it competitive with other quality pieces in the same price point . As always an excellent review and might I add such an amazing and refreshing watch review channel!! I just personally think that Formex has lowered the bar on this one and raised the coin, maybe to attract the Apple watch wearing sheep, lol. Smart, but not fooling the real watch fans! Cheers!!!
I’m afraid I can’t look past the fact that the wtws book was the mr pagani book! Im shocked 😅mwc 😂 looks like a lovely piece tbh I may look into the slightly bigger one tho cos I have a silly wrist size😖 22cm 🤦🏻
It’s on par to a Alexander Shorokhoff tbh same build quality it’s not that of an expensive watch in terms of what your getting, id buy this over a hublot any day. 👌😉👏
I think it looks pretty good and looks well built. I have seen the bigger version before, but definitely want to check this one out at Intersect in Austin this November. I would like to see a slightly narrower lug width, but overall it's pretty good. My main issue with Formex is the brand name sounds like an industrial product. The funny thing about that is after I heard of the brand 5+ years ago, I realized we were using a plastic product at work branded Formex. I don't know if they have related parent companies, but it just backed up my thoughts on the name. Am I the only one that gets that from the name?
This is actually a flipping good watch. It is not an inexpensive watch, by any means, but you get top notch quality and a high level of customization for the price. Well worth the money, IMO. I'd rather buy a Formex than a Rolex.
I feel like you’re constantly bashing omega whilst praising much cheaper and inferior watches. The fact that you’re making a video about a watch that won’t be that popular off the back of the seamaster name is quite frankly pitiful. Don’t go down this route, you can do better than this. The seamaster is worlds apart from this.
Formex is in a different league, but I don’t understand the bracelet decision: 22mm with almost no taper. I know it has its unique aesthetic, but it’s not flattering on the wrist at all. I would have bought one the day it came out, if not for the bulky bracelet.
What a watch! Formex are pretty much unbeatable for features and I love that they have their own style and unique look. Those macro shots are so good! The fine details of this Reef are really impressive! Fantastic show MWC!
Well if the lume was better it might be like my Seiko marinemaster 300. Honestly it's too bright, it hurts your eyes when it's first lumed up. I know first world problems. SEIKO POWER 🌊💪
The only real deal breaker for me would be the possibility of looking down at my wrist, seeing a missing bezel and not knowing where I lost it. At $150 for a replacement, yeah bit much. Otherwise, brilliant piece. Even the wife gives it a pass! 😎👍🏼😂
Formex isn’t in the same league as Omega.
Thats not to say it’s a bad watch…
Probably also helps that the latter doesn't sound like a floor cleaner
They are belting quality for the money and don't really copy anyone else's designs..👍👍
Just saw the video and orderd my third Omega Seamaster.
😂
Superb !
And I ordered a Megameal Seafood.
I ordered the Spicy Chicken combo with unsweetened tea.
I ordered your mom 😂
Formex was on the Timefest at Bordeaux last june and it was really pleasant to hold and try their watches !! Really ingenious their bracelet !! 🎉
I’ll have to take your word for it mate. They’re both way outside of my price range. It is a stunning watch though. On a positive note, Casio America is finally selling the ABL 100 (edit) correction. It still is not. Balls… off to find one close to MSRP. Wish me luck…
As a former Omega Seamaster 300m NTTD owner, and still an Omega lover, I struggle with the skeleton hands which give poor contrast to the dial, especially on the NTTD. That formex looks lovely, hard to comment if it feels as well made without handling it. The real gap between premium brands and brands such as for ex is clearly narrowing. Ultimately, brand will continue to influence choice, as these are emotional decisions and people buy what they love. Not sure the specifications really matter.( power reserves? Accuracy?) looks like a fun watch you wont get bored of. (I find changing a strap often makes a watch feel fresh) never mind all the other stuff on this formex you can change.
I'm an Omega lover as well and own quite a few, incl Speedy, an SMP and several vintage models. But I also had to flip my NTTD since it just wasn't legible enough for the type of watch it is meant to be. Big Formex fan too - have a pilot Chrono (love the 7-link bracelet) and an Essence Forty Three
COCAB Limited Edition (also a fabulous strap and clasp on that model.) 😀
I tend to agree on the packaging. My current most expensive watch is a Squale 1521, I paid a tick over £900 for, and the packaging of that watch beats the hell out of that Formex packaging. I also don’t care much for packaging but I definitely see your point.
Yeah, my $1100usd Longines beats it too but honestly, I really don't care at all about the box. As long as it keeps the watch safe and secure for shipping, I'm ok with it.
The copper dial is just magnificent 😍The build quality, the case and the changeable bezels 👍
Bronze Stu!!!!! It’s a beaut
@@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR Yikes, bronze, sorry 🙂
Have this is the 42 and LOVE it. Gets more wear than my Omega (and Monta, etc..), though less than my Rolex. Reminds me of a vintage Vacheron. Still need to get the rubber but the bracelet is so nice I have not felt the need.
I didn't think one could actually innovate on an obsolete technology, but Formex somehow managed to. I don't care for microbrands, but this watch is amazing. It should be a future icon.
I have a Seamaster, Datejust, and Submariner. Yet I always tend to find myself wearing the formex essence 39 a lot. Granted the bracelet doesn’t have that super luxurious feel of the Rolex’s or Omegas, however it’s super comfy and I love the dials! Throw the price point in aswell, they are a fantastic bit of kit with a lot going for them!
Good video, but I disagree. I purchased my Omega SM300 in green last week. It's banging. No regrets!
Not sure it's the best comparison based on pricing, but I understand the principle. Keep up the good work.
Love the look of those bezels wth the Matt and gloss finish .
I really love Formex…no knock to Zelos, but Firmex seems like a high end Zelos with their design style. I love their innovation, very refreshing that they forward think.
I must be the only one who hates the flange on the left side of the case. Everyone raves about the Reef--and I get it--but I just can't unsee that flange. It's like a 3rd arm.
FLANGE!!!!
@@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR lol! NGL, I was hoping your wife would take the piss out of the spare flange. She was rather subdued this week. Cheers, mate!
I’m about to order the essence 39 in white.
Happy to see their watches getting attention on here. I want to see one in person but COSC certified and how well they look in video, for under $2k, man what is not to love. Would love to add a reef to my collection.
For that price, I would rather buy a Longines Conquest in blue or light blue. The exchangeable bezel is interesting.
So I was going to pull the trigger on a sea master 300 after much thought and reviews. Now I am on the Formex site second guessing my choice.
Thats one of the best looking best crafted watches ive seen in many years - I like the removable bezel idea, but the idea of possibly losing it is a serious concern, unless you wanted to change colors there wouldnt be any reason to even take it off.
the case protects the bezel from catching on to any sort of edges, door handles etc. i abused my reef and the bezel never came off
Nice review ! As a diver, I would never buy a watch with a bezel that could detach that easily. If you're timing a dive and that bezel pops off, for any reason, you can no longer time your dive, plus, I would want a nice solid, tight bezel action, which that watch doesn't appear to have. Lot of great features and certainly a beautiful watch. Would also be nice to see a 44mm version and a display case back for my $2K
Mate, not a chance… Seamaster finishing is just too good, no comparison.
This seems like really good value for money - especially with that awesome bracelet. I just wish they had a more classic/vintage style design in their lineup.
Clicked this video because I like your reviews but it's way over my budget, so I wasn't even thinking about buying an Omega.
Know these peel-off bezels from Tissot. Though well made, I tell you you WILL lose them. At this price point I'd rather get an Oris. Great review anyway Russ 🧡 Cheers!
Formex is on the top of my 'To Buy' list. Love them.
I held these in the hand at Windup Watch Faire. They're quality and look class.
Love the channel. Have a look at Hanhart . I know you love vintage inspired watches and their chronographs are from their 1950,s design . Small independent German brand with great heritage and much loved by the actor Steve McQueen the king of cool . Keep up the good work,
All the best ,
Chris Gilling.
Seems the people who respond well to marketing dont agree with your real life, hands on opinion.... keep doing whet you do Sir. You do it well
“The squid mouth thing”😆🤣😁
Question. Are you allowed to slate the watch or do you need to show the video prior to release?
Yes of course and no . Formex see it when you do
@@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR then I’m in 😁
As a person who has owned a seamaster and a formex, there is absolutely no comparison. The Seamaster quality blows the formex out of the water.
Can you elaborate a little bit?
Well having handled around 30 Seamaster’s and had them on my wrist from titanium’s to 300 professionals ….. I respectfully disagree Formex can’t beat Seamaster’s history however the current Seamaster’s design is only as old as the 90’s ! That design does not do the Seamaster legacy justice in my book.
@@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR you guys should agree on one metric: quality, design, legacy ... build quality probably being the most objective.
At the end of the day omega is a household name that will always be desirable and associated with quality. Formex is an unknown brand to 99% of people and will never have the interest or desirability
Formex is making waves 🌊 I like almost every model that's pretty awesome
Russell I considered the REEF 39mm, but went with the Essence 39mm in Degrade, brown dial. Absolutely stunning watch! I got it on the bracelet but opted also for their rubber strap which is incredible. The REEF is still on my radar.😎👍🏼
Great video Russ. Keep up the good work.
I'm liking the quick change bezels. Surely someone else thought of that before now. Looks way better in the rubber IMO. Box lets it down, I chuck em anyway and commit to the watch, not resale.
Gorgeous watch , I really do like it , I'd go for the 42mm , I think I prefer the stainless steel bezel.
It's £2,225 for the watch and the stainless steel bezel.
If I had the money, I think I would have this watch tbh, I really like the bronze dial.
Awesome video 😊I'm very lucky to own both,no comparison for me,❤
Don't make laugh.
Formex certainly know what they're doing, and the alignment with Dexel further enhances them.
A very compelling offering! I certainly don’t need it, but I sure want it. Thanks for the terrific review.
Eh, that hypothetical $10k Omega would have a propriety Omega co-axial METAS-certified movement, not a COSC-certified Sellita SW200.
They bought that movement remember my friend! They are a huge brand for sure
Even as a space exploration and James Bond fan I just can’t connect with Omega, every time I try one on I find myself finding faults with the watches even though they look amazing. Can’t quite put my finger on it
One movement is, to modern standards, inaccurate; the other is slightly more or less inaccurate, depending.
One is relatively easy to get serviced at a relatively low price; the other is not so much.
Horses for courses, but ultimately depends which brand you want on your wrist.
I love the look and it sounds like a great fit. One for the future….
Been watching your videos for a while now and was inspired to start a collection. Started with the MAMACOO, its specs for price and clean looks, now am looking for a dress watch to add.
I love the red Essence and have come close to buying a couple of times. As for the packaging; Formex do sell a 'Premium Wooden Watch Box' for AU $99 (about $60 US), so if cardboard keeps the watch price lower, that's a good thing.
I dunno about the packaging issue, it looks very like that supplied by Tudor with their watches and it seems to work fine for them.
Elements of Oris Aquis in the face? I think its gorgeous, I'd wear it.
The interchangeable band design reminds me of smartwatch bands. Impressive background of their company. Great review as always.
Oris and Formex are two brands I want. But there is no way I'd go diving with the REEF after seeing how easily the watch dissembles.
Oh, yes, Formex is going places.
Thanks for sharing this one. Another great show!
Fabulous piece of engineering my only concern would be how long before that bezel gets loose on its attachment and then falls off or is knocked off ? But the finish and style looks brilliant and the dial well amazing!
I’ve been eyeballing Formex for some time now. This one is beautiful. I don’t know if you ever sell any of these, but I might be interested in it if you did.
Give it a white dial, black bezel as shown, black rubber strap as shown, No date and you have a winner for under 2000.😊
A lot of watch, with a lot of features for a reasonable price. It’s a fair comparison to a Seamaster, but I don’t know if I’d go so far as better. We’d have to agree on a metric of ‘better’.
Modular watches are supercool. MintEvolutive released a couple different lines of watches that let you swap out the bezels. Great concept
This is the first Formex I've seen that I really liked.
I definitely see a formex in my future! They really make a stunning watch.
As always, great video. The watch is freakin beautiful but just a few minutes in before knowing it was interchangeable I thought "not keen on the overhang on the bezel".. I do like the ability to customize, I owned one in the past with that feature and it was fun but the bezel locked in place. I think that overhang would be a guarantee to lose at least one and might be a deal-breaker for me which is a shame cause I love the design besides.
cant help but think of oris aquis when i see this watch.
Definitely a great looking piece. The thing I think that hurts this is the changing abilities! The reason many watch collectors as you know is the liove story that grows with the piece, the individual that wears it gives the watch it's soul.. The bezel looks, like you said, extremely light and way to easy to pop off.. For the money I don't really see it competitive with other quality pieces in the same price point . As always an excellent review and might I add such an amazing and refreshing watch review channel!! I just personally think that Formex has lowered the bar on this one and raised the coin, maybe to attract the Apple watch wearing sheep, lol. Smart, but not fooling the real watch fans! Cheers!!!
Good review of a very nice watch. Visually makes me think of Yacht-Master. Nice.
Nice watch, but the thickness of the lugs/bracelet puts me off slightly. A more tapered bracelet would help persuade me, though.
Wow this sounds like a serious proposition. I was ready to brush it off before watching but it does seem like really good value for money !
I’m afraid I can’t look past the fact that the wtws book was the mr pagani book! Im shocked 😅mwc 😂 looks like a lovely piece tbh I may look into the slightly bigger one tho cos I have a silly wrist size😖 22cm 🤦🏻
Thank you my friend!
@@THEMADWATCHCOLLECTOR I absolutely love your content and delivery,makes you a first to view of my subs keep up the excellent work dude👊🏻
A free Formex, I’m so jealous 😂. Seriously I love them, I’ll buy one one day, I’ve got other fish to fry first.😎
It’s on par to a Alexander Shorokhoff tbh same build quality it’s not that of an expensive watch in terms of what your getting, id buy this over a hublot any day. 👌😉👏
Brilliant review. Thank you.
I think it looks pretty good and looks well built. I have seen the bigger version before, but definitely want to check this one out at Intersect in Austin this November. I would like to see a slightly narrower lug width, but overall it's pretty good. My main issue with Formex is the brand name sounds like an industrial product. The funny thing about that is after I heard of the brand 5+ years ago, I realized we were using a plastic product at work branded Formex. I don't know if they have related parent companies, but it just backed up my thoughts on the name. Am I the only one that gets that from the name?
Russell. Who do you recommend for a good quality leather watch strap please.
I tell you what Russel you’ve had a right touch there.
Fantastic review, and you’ve put Formed on my radar, great potted history, and really stunning watch. Rolex? Formex? Sound similar?
@@paulb9453
At least it's not Polex, Bolex, or Rdex.
The "-ex" should have been a no-starter.
What a beauty! Definitely going to save up for one.
I do like the essence range, especially the aventurine dial and the cool grey version that they have on pre-order.
Fantastic review and great watch microbrand too. Very nice 🔥
this reminds me of a grand seiko evolution gmt..great watch. what's your opinion on the new Tudor pelagos cycling edition?
This is actually a flipping good watch. It is not an inexpensive watch, by any means, but you get top notch quality and a high level of customization for the price. Well worth the money, IMO. I'd rather buy a Formex than a Rolex.
That dial is stunning
Few people know that Formex was originally a brand created for the Central American market....
What I would like to know is how the Formex compares to the CW Dartmouth 2...
Love that dial
Personally, i prefer the Essence 39, but a lovely looking dial.
I feel like you’re constantly bashing omega whilst praising much cheaper and inferior watches. The fact that you’re making a video about a watch that won’t be that popular off the back of the seamaster name is quite frankly pitiful. Don’t go down this route, you can do better than this. The seamaster is worlds apart from this.
Formex is in a different league, but I don’t understand the bracelet decision: 22mm with almost no taper. I know it has its unique aesthetic, but it’s not flattering on the wrist at all. I would have bought one the day it came out, if not for the bulky bracelet.
Would love to see a lume flux challenge with a Ball watch! Those tritium tubes would be a 9 or 10 for sure 😊
Yer see I would have it in a flash, if it had a case suspension system. Too right I’m joking… but joshing aside I still prefer the essence. 😉
Great looking watch and quite innovative. But a 300M diver with an easily removable bezel? Not sure if I like that.
What a watch! Formex are pretty much unbeatable for features and I love that they have their own style and unique look. Those macro shots are so good! The fine details of this Reef are really impressive!
Fantastic show MWC!
While I think their name is the epitome of generic… They are starting to win me over with quality and features enthusiast like
Yowza! What a watch. What a watch.
Great review, great watch. The only thing is that the hour hand could be a bit longer
That is a beautiful watch!
Beautiful watch.
oh noooo, I can’t un-see the squid-mouth now😂!!
Beautiful watch but I’d be afraid if I bumped the bezel it would fall off and be lost if I didn’t notice.
One of the best modern watches there is. Period.
🤡
This watch gets a bronze award!
Well if the lume was better it might be like my Seiko marinemaster 300. Honestly it's too bright, it hurts your eyes when it's first lumed up. I know first world problems.
SEIKO POWER 🌊💪
The first bezelholic/bezel monster?
If only there wasn’t the side hump this would have been a stunner in my opinion
The only real deal breaker for me would be the possibility of looking down at my wrist, seeing a missing bezel and not knowing where I lost it. At $150 for a replacement, yeah bit much. Otherwise, brilliant piece. Even the wife gives it a pass! 😎👍🏼😂
Good video. But the minute hand needs to be longer
This watch for me is what the omega is for you, nice but i dont want one.
I'll stick with the seamaster.