Refurbished Field Automatic Watch from Formex Presents an Elevated Sophistication, Maintaining Its Essential Tool-Watch Characteristics
In a noteworthy development, Swiss watchmaker Formex has unveiled the second generation of its Field Automatic watch, building upon the success of its debut model from 2022. This titanium tool watch, priced under $1,000, achieved popularity by striking a balance between utilitarian durability and Swiss mechanics, but fell short in visual sophistication compared to other offerings from the brand.
The 2nd-gen Field Automatic retains the elements that made the original a hit, while introducing enhancements to address the perceived shortcomings. Foremost among the changes is a redesigned dial, featuring a two-part architecture that lends depth and dimension, making the watch more visually engaging without compromising legibility. The new dial design includes a raised, sunburst-finished center and a sloped chapter ring, creating an intriguing play of light and visual depth.
In terms of color, the Field Automatic Gen 2 is available in three new hues - Ice Blue, Coho Salmon, and Basalt Grey. The blue and salmon variants sport black lume for increased contrast, while the Basalt Grey model sticks with traditional white Super-LumiNova. Although the case size has reduced from 41mm to 40mm, the watch retains its grade 2 titanium material, which undergoes Formex's proprietary hardening treatment to boost surface hardness by nearly three times.
The titanium housing, along with the watch's sandblasted finish, ensures durability and scratch resistance, while maintaining the material's lightweight, corrosion-resistant properties. The sandblasted finish, which develops a personalized natural patina over time, adds to the watch's rugged appeal. For the strap, buyers can choose between a nylon Velcro strap or a leather strap with a micro-adjustable carbon deployment clasp.
At the heart of the watch lies the Sellita SW200-1 automatic movement, providing the watch with a reliable mechanical foundation while keeping costs manageable. The water resistance stands at 150m, ensuring the Field Automatic can withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
First introduced as a motorsport-inspired brand in 1999 by the Grädel brothers, Formex expanded into military-inspired field watches in 2022 with the Field Automatic. Since then, the brand has prioritized technical innovation and accessible luxury, retaining its roots in advanced engineering.
Slated for pre-orders beginning today, the Formex Field Automatic Gen 2 has a price point similar to the Gen-1 versions, starting at $870 on the nylon Velcro strap and $995 on leather. Deliveries are expected by June.
[1] Formex - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) - Water Resistance and Titanium Hardeninghttps://formex-watches.com/pages/faq
[2] Worn & Wound - Formex Field Automatic 2nd Gen | An Affordable And Adventurous Swiss Field Watchhttps://wornandwound.com/review/formex-field-automatic-second-generation/
[3] Wristpick - Formex Field Automatic Series 2 – A Field Watch That Means Businesshttps://wristpick.com/review/formex-field-automatic-series-2-green
[4] Time and Tide Watches - Formex Field Automatic 2nd Generation Review | Time and Tide Watcheshttps://timeandtidewatches.com/review/formex-field-automatic-2nd-generation/
- The new Formex Field Automatic Gen 2, despite its reduced case size, maintains the durability and lightweight properties of its titanium housing, making it suitable for both sports and automotive activities.
- The automotive-inspired brand, Formex, showcases their latest watch, the Field Automatic Gen 2, which offers a visual upgrade with a redesigned dial that incorporates multiple layers for added depth and sophistication.
- As a nod to style and innovation, Formex's latest addition to their lineup, the Field Automatic Gen 2, boasts cutting-edge technology with the Sellita SW200-1 automatic movement, ensuring its reliability and affordability on par with modern motors and advanced engineering.
