Affordable....But Not Cheap! The New Formex 'Field'

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A welcome addition to the Formex lineup and definitely sporting the company's DNA. Their cheapest model, but still considerably more expensive than the compatition. Is the brand strong enough to justify that premium? Cheers, Jody

[@TASCOM44]

Not seeing many people comment on the new lighting and camera- it looks fantastic. Huge improvement in quality

[@Skurtle]

Especially Jody looks so crisp now…

[@robertlindo8058]

I was thinking that myself. Very professional looking.

[@jameseisen9371]

Hey Jody check out Lorus and Pulsar..... Seiko's poor relations.

[@AlexanderB.]

As much as "Field" and "Reef" are uninspired names for their respective watches, "Essence" is a beautiful name for an amazing watch, still may favourite piece of this brand, preferably in the 39 mm version. I see watches from SWC (Bunker or Ark) or the RZE Resolute as competition for this watch.

[@TheBimmer74]

Great review Jody. My SWC bunker absolutely blows this watch away at half the price. The Bunker has 24 hour markers below the arabics (as any proper field watch should have), and it's lume is absolutely the best I have seen on any non tritium field watch with the exception of Lume-tec.

[@bifflee3603]

The swc bunker is an amazing watch

[@samsan3095]

Wish SWC would release a version in 38mm

[@garyboyle695]

Have you held the Former, if not how can you compare?

[@fredfour0]

@@garyboyle695 he's comparing the visuals and aesthetic. You can judge those with your eyes

[@deej9367]

@@samsan3095 I have the Hamilton field watch at 38mm and the SWC. The SWC wears better for me at 7.25 wrist so I guess it depends on your wrist size but it doesn't wear that big.

[@julianmuller9567]

This channel is really going places. Love the rising production quality and the increased depth of field, all while keeping the essentials the same, exactly how it's supposed to be. Best watch channel, no doubt.

[@jonathanlavery7279]

Just received my petrol blue field. So comfortable on the fabric strap what an amazing watch everything I thought it would and more. It sounds great to it's tick tock is interesting maybe the hardened case makes it sound like it does. Absolutely love it ! Fantastic service from Formex just great. I'm in love with this watch.

[@sabeaniebaby]

This is the first non-pilot field watch which has sparked any interest in me. Perhaps not this specific colour combination, but I love the style. Thanks for your review.

[@JasonTheWatchGuy]

Formex always impresses me but if I were to pick one up I think I'd have to go with the Essence, perfect all rounder!

[@Eric_Nielsen]

Got the Formex adjustable clasp 20mm, put it on my PAM682, figured out what length 12 o'clock strap fits me (85-90mm) and now LOVE IT. Like a combo of Panerai and Zenith in one sports watch.

[@datafoxy]

I am getting into watches and this looks to be a great watch to get. I like the numerals, very different and fun looking. It makes it stand out in the watches and the strap looks fantastic with the quick adjustment. I also appreciate the dial and strap colors availability.

[@nolanpick6906]

I got to see Formex watches at a local watch show recently and was really impressed! I personally like the numerals on the Field...looks like the were spray painted right on with a stencil!

[@namenotavailable11]

Formex is like the micro of Swiss watch brands. They're trying to walk a thin line between well known (heritage) Swiss brands and micro brands giving better value for the specs. Admittedly, this is pretty tough.

[@kobusvanrensburg4092]

"Plain Jane's" are growing on me more and more. I appreciate simple straightforward watches. And yes I do own a Flighty.

[@garethsigrist8714]

Awesome review as always Jody! I think there’s absolutely loads to like about Formex but at this sort of price the competition is pretty steep. Love how unique and individual their designs are!

[@davejarvis5279]

Hi jody great video as always loved the reef but this I'm afraid falls short for me I think the hamilton khaki is still king in the field watch category 👍

[@phil5611]

Jodi, the current prices for the Formex Field are $795/$945 with or without the leather strap and clasp. This still is not cheap but more palatable than the pricing you used. I would pay up for Formex compared to the lesser competition based on the unique innovative look, brand recognition and fun! Thank you for the review.

[@andrewbourn1513]

As someone who will die on the SWC value proposition hill, it seems like the Formex cost premium just isn't there for me. Especially when you consider the SWC ARK at $200. Granted you don't get an automatic movement but it's more legible, better lume, better AR, lighter and it's still Swiss made. The Bunker is also a sweet piece as you mentioned, if you can get over the logo. But hey, if you like the way it looks and the check clears, buy what gives you the fizz!

[@Ben_M_D]

Jody, please read this with no negative tone or intent. Your new camera is fantastic, but you either need to up the exposure or increase the lighting. Your last few videos have all had this problem. I keep feeling like you're in a darkened room, and I squint to try to see your face, better. The lighting in the past has been good, so I know you know how to do things. I also understand there is always a learning curve when switching to a new camera. Anyway, I figured you'd want to know. Keep up the great work!

[@richardshaw1968]

Before comment I went back and watched your SWC Bunker review and couldn’t really see where double the cost for the Formex makes it twice the watch. I’d go for the SWC and maybe a Seiko Cocktail time with a Duro for the beach….

[@SingleTrackMined]

An all-business intro for an all-business watch. Still, you managed to make me lol. Great review and if Formex was around half the cost I would be interested but...Cheers!

[@rafaelandreu]

Like the look with the new camera Jody! About the watch, it is almost almost perfect (for my taste)... but those numbers man, I'm not sure if I would risk the money to see if they eventually grow on me. No date and different numbers (or at least 9, 12, 3, 6) would be a killer. It is a very handsome watch anyway.

[@watchesandcaps2566]

I love this watch, but I'm also a bit of a Formex fanboy. Own both their previous models with the Reef being one of my most worn watches. Will be looking to add this to my collection in the near future. Was looking at the Orion Tesseract but they're sold out of the purple dial and this Formex will save me a couple thousand dollars.

[@tristandauod]

Cool piece, for sure! Yeah, blasted titanium does pick up dirt and oils from your hands pretty easily. It's because of the texture (rough, compared to a polished finish). Microscopic crevices trap the dirt/oils. I have a few knives with sand blasted or bead blasted titanium handle scales. You can just use an old toothbrush or cloth and some soapy water to clean it off.

[@tottenhamnole]

Big fan of Formex usually but this one just misses the mark for me. Thanks for the video, Jody!

[@StephanLinus]

My thoughts exactly. Waiting for a smaller version of the REEF. 😁

[@waynesellers4078]

Too big and too expensive

[@d2rufffalco459]

Dude I love this watch I have it in sage green it’s so light and has a different feel and look from any other field watch I have. Been wearing it since the 15 of February running +5 a day. I seen your review with the ceo of Formex and had to have it. All so I am so glad they did not put the 24 hrs markers since I am not in the military I would not mean to use military time it’s a waste of space on the dial. I looked at the bunker it’s ok if you want a Standard no thrills titanium watch the bunkers fine.

[@fredoakes7441]

I really like this but SWC makes a watch alot like this and it's less than half the price with a lume that blows your mind! Another FANTASTIC review Jody. You are the best Jody!!

[@Gary-li7ib]

I own a Formex Essence 39 in white and would highly recommend it. This one unfortunately doesn't really do it for me but definitely a fan of the brand

[@verykeen2please]

Formex are coming up with designs, features and comfort - that the BIG brands can only dream of - they are fast becoming one of my fav VFM brands

[@paulb9453]

The devil is definitely in the detail. From afar the field looks insipid, but your macro shots show how cool the font and face are. Great design and love the look. The sage colour looks washed out, it may be darker under normal light, and the case back is better than most. The straps look ok, thanks, I've never heard of Formex, you've widened my watch knowledge yet again.

[@d2rufffalco459]

The watches have the fade out look to look like a old tractor that’s been weather in the soon and the mahogany look like a old color from a red wagon tha you loved as a kid. They put a lot of thought in design into the dial and the case I think I can see the DNA from their other watches from there line in the field.

[@brianmsahin]

It's a very nice watch and it reminds me of my student days when doing graduate work experience placement. One year, though I didn't ultimately specialise in construction, I remember we were using Formex concrete sealer to protect the structure from acids and alkaline substances! I wonder did the Formex designer have a connection with the construction industry! It's quite expensive though given the keen competition from other brands.

[@TheRealMafoo]

The color grading and style of your background in this video is awesome!

[@jeffone]

Date complications are for young eyes. They serve only to remind me of how my eyes have aged.

[@funkmon]

Solid new camera Jody, but I think you need to adjust your lighting or exposure. Your lights shining off the eyeglasses are jarring. I would expect if you increase your new exposure by one stop it would help, or maybe move the lights.

[@kyledriscollmusic]

gorgeous field watch, definitely got Boldr/RZE vibes which I ain't complaining about but with Boldr being cheaper I know where my money would go

[@krekmanski]

that blink in the beginning... flawless

[@bobyoutube4037]

Evening Jody, missed this mornings video, on it now at the end of the working day! Holiday blues!

[@waynesellers4078]

Is this a proto type because the lume on that hour hand looks wonky. I just can't see the value in this unless you really like the colours

[@zelphx]

Tricky way to add the missing six. Those colors rock.

[@wescobts]

I really like the numerals, love that it"s Ti

[@unknownriderinbound]

The only thing i don't like about this one is the way it popped up on EVERY watch channel at the same time. Just screams that Influencer Marketing Expense is a big chunk of the price they're asking us to pay.

[@glennpowell3444]

I saw through marketing crap years ago.If anything it just has the opposte effect and stears me well clear.Applies to any product.Yes I am a ludite with a wallet thats trained to hide if it needs to with technology offerings.I must be the only bloke on the planet that doesnt do Facebook because all people do is take a photo of what they are about to eat and think any buggar is interested?

[@meltdowngrfx969]

Great looking watch! I especially liked the dial color and numerals. Not quite sure about that leather strap color.

[@dalerichardson8842]

Can't agree Jodie, the Bunker is a nicer looking watch, and with the money left over you could get the Ark as well. Grea t review as always ! Love the look of the reef though !

[@dalerichardson8842]

Sorry if I spelt your name wrong ? Is it Jody or Jodie ?

[@glennpowell3444]

Hiya.The problem with field watches is that your first ever episode featured the humble casio mrw200.Arguably thats all you need in this class.Super legible.Super light.24 hour markings and day date and a rotating bezel.Super cheap and 100 metres w/r.The only issue are the straps which last~18 months a pop.The bottom line is if you want to get dirty and wet whats the point in wearing an expensive watch?

[@timEdoodz]

I know most viewers won't notice the new lens (camera??) but wow! I like the out of focus shots here Jody. Really taking it up a notch in addition to that new background setup!! Keep it up mate, appreciate the little things 👍

[@phobiax86]

Helloooooo. I enjoy that you have been "forced" to spread out your videos over the week 😃

[@stevefox8605]

Nice, but ditch the date & make it in steel (& correspondingly cheaper) & I'd be buying one for sure. Hate the pointless date complication on any 3 handers & just not into Ti & the whole lightweight thing just feels cheap ( yeah, I know that's stupid). Style wise looks great imho. Cheers mate 👍🏻👍🏻

[@Marko_Horvat]

Pointless? Maybe for you, but plenty of people use date function on a watch.

[@stevefox8605]

@@Marko_Horvat I'm sure most folks would at least like the option of date or no date - and companies would sell more as they'd appeal to a wider audience. Cheers mate 👍🏻

[@jamesblonde2271]

I like its tougher nd not shiny tho...

[@James-dt7ky]

[@gharris4440]

That lume looked great. Was that the new camera at work? May pick up the lume a little better that the last one. Or I’m wrong and it’s still the old camera 😂

[@JustOneMoreWatch]

Old camera for the Lume mate!

[@flamingknight11]

Hey Jody, you should take a look at the Seiko metronome watch model no: Smw006a if you ever get the chance. It has quite a unique complication on a pretty attractive watch.

[@thegorn]

Super cool piece. Very casual.

[@juanmanueltabio1954]

Absolutely loving those post-déco numerals...

[@rayharrison6400]

Love the dial colour and numerals, very military. Not keen on titanium either as i prefer weight on my wrist. Clasp is superb too, but it makes needs a more fitting colour. Great review

[@daniel2946]

I think you can consider add some brightness to your light jody, its a bit dimmed

[@rava2107]

It would definitely be an option for around $600 but at around a $1000 it is hard to justify. Just to expensive !!

[@markwolfson2023]

You are back on track, with a great video/ watch

[@Brajin1]

Man this new camera is legit Jody!! Looking good sir. Formex is making big moves.

[@evilganome]

It's a beautiful watch, and I really want a Formex for my collection, but tempting as it is, I am going save a bit more and get an Essence 39. Which brings me to the question of the green dial versus the new white dial. Which would I wear more often.

[@Csibu89]

The blue dial one with the pale teal nylon would definitely be a stunner. That would be my choice, but not at this price. Make it in stainless steel all brushed or even beadblasted, and put a miyota 9series in it for half the price, with that nylon strap it would still be super light and just as useable.

[@saevans63]

Excellent review Jody. I really like this field watch. Formex have done a great job on this one.

[@colossusX1]

Great piece. Would have liked a 42 mm for my larger wrist, but understand why they picked this size.

[@harryalexander734]

Watch ok. Vid production >💯. Review 👍🏻. Thank you.

[@MetalMD7]

Saw Nick Shabazz' review some days ago. Nice watch, I like the purple dial one ⌚

[@hendolam5805]

I'm from India and it hurts when I try to convert dollar into Indian rupee because even 100$ is more than 7000K in Indian rupee..... And it's not a small amount being a student...... Hurts alot because SEIKO and G-SHOCK are my dream watch atleast to own 1 each ... 😭😭😭😭 Always a joy to watch ur blog

[@watchmewithwatches]

Loving the new lighting set up, very smart! Great review as always mate 👍

[@OwynDavies]

Videography looking sharp!

[@petercampbell3828]

Good honest review. I like the watch and I think that the size is just right for a "modern" field watch.

[@kevinbarnbrook4728]

SWC bunker of course beats this watch, and the lume is also better.

[@ryanthomas9306]

Nice vid. I’m newer to watches, but I noticed this vintage colored hands thing around lately. I honestly prefer my hands to lighter shade

[@hawkmickler4907]

I really do like the watch but the 38-hour power reserve is the biggest issue I have with my swc bunker

[@gavaldo358]

Was just looking at these watches yesterday, lovely pieces

[@mkphilly]

It's ALL about the look

[@istvantoth7431]

Awesome field watch. Is there a quartz version available?

[@peterfoskett]

Hi Jody, great review and the lighting is so much better in this one. The face colour looks better in the thumbnail.

[@TachiTekmo]

Very nice! I've always been an Alpinist truther, but Formex has some great innovations and new takes on staid categories. True, not as good lume as C³ SuperLuminova, but that's real Big-boy territory, there. Yeah, love my SWC to death! Best damned field watch under $500. But maybe I'll look at Formex, finally!

[@donnyboon2896]

Yes

[@matth8205]

Great review Jody 👌🏻 not for me this one I don’t like titanium and I think that “sandwich” dial looks just recessed and filled to me so not really a sandwich dial at all. Nice to have the 150m water resistance but I prefer the look of the Hamilton field watches or the Bunker looks like an absolute bargain if you like titanium! A shame really as the rest of the Formex range looks great!

[@thenotanclan]

Nice watch but at the price? I’d buy a Hamilton Khaki Field Mechanical, a Seiko SKX and a Citizen Promaster Nighthawk - after shopping around for discounts you’d have a very authentic LAND / SEA / AIR collection for around the same money and 3 VERY solid watches

[@lukewalker1051]

Not my coloration or aesthetic but very nicely sized and proportioned. Thanks Jody. An ass for every seat as someone once wrote, just not mine in this case.

[@Ratchetfan321]

At a glance it looks just like a boldr

[@Blueprint349]

Did a quick check and I don’t think you did a review of the ‘Reef’, did you?

[@campshay19]

not sure if you intended it to be the 6th when filming it but it made my OCD happy

[@tkindschi]

Eventhough I understand the weight and utility benefits of a titanium case...I can't say I really like the look of blasted Ti. Looks very bland. And at the price, I think you may have to be a real Formex fan to pick this over one of the many other field watch options out there.

[@watchingbrief7072]

Love the initial stunned rabbit look “field”. Priceless!

[@JustOneMoreWatch]

They didn't try very hard, did they?

[@watchingbrief7072]

@@JustOneMoreWatch I’m waiting for that new micro brand called ‘Watch’. 😆

[@MrConraA]

Loving the upgrade in production ❤️ looks phenomenal mate

[@ThemysteriousMrP]

Nice review. There are so many outstanding field watches for cheaper than this one. Does it really do enough?

[@alanwright3172]

Loving the new video quality.............the watch not so much.🧐

[@mdavid7149]

Might be limiting myself but it's got to be Helm I'm waiting on mine now!! I saw a San Martin and compared the Namico as well but helms got the gauntlet

[@gopherproxy]

I was at least expecting a voice note feature on this piece, when I saw your tee 👻🚫! The "Ghost" would actually be a great name for it, anyway. And I ain't afraid of no host 😃🙃!

[@RestrictedHades]

The 9 o clock numeral looks like the boldr logo

[@TinBin-Craig]

looks ok... not a fan of the strap options and the price to high... rather get a hamiton or tissot for the price.... cheers

[@danielhristov6175]

Affordable indeed when compared to a Seiko Alpinist. (Considering what you get)

[@AudioFlat]

Hmm… I don’t know about this one. Visually, well there is understated and then there is dull.

[@Jdinaz]

Datejust 41 says it’s a 41 but measures at 39.7 as well. They must be sharing calipers with Rolex. I like the watch. I would prefer steel. This looks like zinc/pot metal. I think the pricing is a bit off.

[@pol5561]

Those blast finish cases looks like plastic,nice new camera set up though Joddy👌👌

[@LateCloser]

I love Field watches. I like Formex, especially that "Essence" watch. I do not like this watch at all, however. It's just "ugly" to me. Yeah, it's a "field" watch but that's not an excuse. First, I hate the date complication location. Looks fine when it's the "6th" of the month. How does it look on every other day of the month when you have a strange number between the 7 and 5? Not good, I'm guessing. Personally, I prefer there to not be a day or date complication on field watches. I don't like the font of the numbers. I don't like the track design on the edge. Not a single thing regarding it's appearance do I find attractive. I do like the size, thickness, weight, movement and straps. This is an easy pass for me. Happy to see more quality options in the sub 1k category, however. Great review Jody.

[@NATHANSFLETCHER]

Great review Jody as always! Not sure about this former however, looks a bit cheap? Maybe I missed it, but I would still would like to see you review the "Reef", thanks:)

[@mystikmeg]

I really like this, it’s quite unique

[@robertparker6141]

The green dial looks like the older Seiko Alpinist. But more expensive.

[@TheDesius]

it looks similar like the boldr venture and that one is only a third of the price I think 750$ would be a decent price but 1000$ seems too high

[@BlueGearReviews]

I just wished it had a Display Case Back

[@uneasevector3249]

Are those numerals from The Interchangeable World of the Micronauts?