Latest Review
Ever since its introduction, the Formex Field Automatic has been a favorite of enthusiasts in search of a modern twist on the tried and true field watch. At the same time, it also felt a little like an outlier in the Formex collection. For a brand that has built a reputation on clever manufacturing innovations, the Field was remarkably simple and, for Formex, pretty subdued. That’s the nature, though, of a field watch, and at the end of the day, Formex’s version of it has always been a well made, if rudimentary, take on the genre. For the Field Automatic Gen 2, Formex has mostly stuck with what worked with the first Field, but upped the complexity of the dial and, as you’d expect, added some new colors to the collection.
Available in three colors (Ice Blue, Coho Salmon, and Basalt Grey), the new dial design adds considerable depth and texture to the experience of the Formex Field. Each dial is constructed from two parts, a center section with a sunburst finish and a sloped minute track that gives the dial what the brand refers to as a “saucer-like” profile. Adding to the perception of depth on the new dials is an hour track positioned between the minute track and central section with a contrasting smooth texture and recessed, stenciled, lume filled numerals. Formex’s stated goal here is to create a three dimensional effect, something that we don’t normally associate with the typically “flat” dials of most field watches.
The case is unchanged from the first generation Formex Field. It’s a 40mm, grade 2 titanium design. This titanium alloy was chosen specifically for the Field because of its ability to be finished with a sandblasting technique that provides for a tactical look but a soft feel. Formex says that their finish will develop a natural patina over time as it reacts with the individual skin chemistry of the owner. Because grade 2 titanium is significantly softer than grade 5, Formex hardens the case to 900 Vickers, three times harder than grade 5 titanium. The end result is a case that is materially every bit as robust (or more) than a comparable watch made from grade 5 titanium, but one that still offers a great deal of character and should wear well over time.
The Formex Field Gen 2 runs on the Sellita SW200 automatic movement, a caliber with 41 hours of power reserve when fully wound. The new version of the Field also debuts a new selection of nylon straps with Velcro fastening in black, blue, and khaki green. Leather straps will also be available, and these make use of the excellent Formex carbon fiber composite clasp with on-the-fly micro-adjustment.
The retail price for the Formex Field Gen 2 is $870 on a nylon strap, and $995 on leather. Pre-orders are open now, with deliveries expected in late June. Formex
