Formex Essence is the perfect GADA watch... AKA, why I love the Formex Essence 39, but still wouldn't buy one in a thousand years
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[Begin aside]
PSA: Do yourself a big favor right this very moment, and go to https://theescapementroom.com/ There you will find many articles written by fan favorites @DeeperRed @Porthole and @Aurelian. My god, I can't remember the last time I've laughed so hard. Their posts are eff'ing brilliant.
[End aside]
I recently met up with @Edge168n for drinks.
He brought along his Formex Essence 39, which he picked up after checking one out at Windup Watch Fair.
I was absolutely blown away!
I’ve never experienced a watch that comfortable on bracelet. The bracelet comes with a butterfly clasp, which I usually utterly hate. However, in this case, because the links are so small (they’re all like half links), you can get the perfect fit, such that the butterfly clasp rests on the underside of the wrist precisely where it should for maximum comfort. On top of that, it’s got this really cool hidden micro-extension.
And, finally, the piece de resistance - from their website…
SUSPENSION SYSTEM
Since the beginning of Formex in 1999, the patented Case Suspension System has been an integral part of every single Formex timepiece. Its two main functions are:
absorbs shocks to protect the mechanical movement from heavy impacts
adds to the comfort on the wrist by adapting to the wearer’s movements
Modeled with high-performance bikes and racing cars in mind, the Formex patented case suspension system works by integrating four springs between the upper and lower watch case. The result is the ultimate shock absorption system designed to protect the mechanical movement and deliver unparalleled comfort to the wearer.
This patented case suspension system brings form and function together for Formex Swiss watches. It’s functional, it’s state of the art engineering and it’s unquestionably unique - all in one watch.
Friends, unlike Public Enemy, you should believe the hype!
The suspension system adds that little extra play, such that you can wear the bracelet as tight as you like, and you’ll always get a perfectly comfortable fit. I can honestly say that I’ve never experienced a more comfortable bracelet.
When I think of GADA watches, what immediately comes to mind is the Omega Aqua Terra and the Rolex Oyster Perpetual. I’ve owned both, and I would say that the Essence's dial is as good as the Aqua Terra’s teak deck dial, better than the sunburst OP dial, but the indices are a step below those of the others. With regard to bracelet and comfort, the Essence wins hands down. And, then, when you consider that the AT costs $6k, the OP costs $6.4k, while the Essence will run you only $1.5k, there is no doubt whatsoever in my mind that I would choose the Essence over the others.
I now understand why Formex won @AllTheWatches’s micro brand tournament.
Formex really does deserve all the accolades and more. And, hey, @Edge168n, what were you saying about the Formex founders and how they make bracelets and dials for a bunch of big name brands?
@VictorAdameArt came over for dinner the other night, and he also got a chance to go hands on with @edge168n’s Essence. What did you think, man? At the time, you were telling me that you were impressed, no?
With all that said, though, I still would never buy one in a thousand years.
I hear you say…
I know, right? But, here’s the thing: I don’t want a GADA watch. Since I have decided to be a weirdo watch collector, I want highly specialized watches that can’t go anywhere and can’t do anything. I want a watch that is specialized for when I eat shrimp ceviche, and a different watch for when I’m eating octopus ceviche. And the problem with the Essence is that it’s too good at being the perfect GADA watch!
What about you? Do you actually want a GADA watch? Or are you happy to have a collection that includes that one watch specifically suited for when you’re trimming your toe nails, while another watch is the go-to when dusting your book shelves?
The Artist formerly known as @HotWatchChick69 and formerly-formerly @Omeganut
More from Mr.Dee.Bater
This is the most watch collector post I've ever read.
"This watch is TOO perfect and TOO versatile. I just don't know where I'd wear it."
We are all completely insane, each and every one of us.
Oh I loved the watch, the hard angular lines, the symmetry of the dial, it's all on point, however I already own a similar watch, a 44GS and mine has the edge (hehe) in my opinion by being a grab and go, GADA high-accuracy quartz. HOWEVER, doing more research on formex I saw they launched a limited edition with meteorite dial and that one is currently on my list.
I mean look at that thing.
This is the most watch collector post I've ever read.
"This watch is TOO perfect and TOO versatile. I just don't know where I'd wear it."
We are all completely insane, each and every one of us.
Oh I loved the watch, the hard angular lines, the symmetry of the dial, it's all on point, however I already own a similar watch, a 44GS and mine has the edge (hehe) in my opinion by being a grab and go, GADA high-accuracy quartz. HOWEVER, doing more research on formex I saw they launched a limited edition with meteorite dial and that one is currently on my list.
I mean look at that thing.
Problem is it would take away $1,500 that could go towards this...
Problem is it would take away $1,500 that could go towards this...
Exactly 🙂
All of my watches are "Go Nowhere, Do Nothing" (GNDN) watches.
Can I sit in a chair and look at a computer screen? ✔
Can I stand and say whatever comes into my head (which hopefully helps my client)? ✔
Can I talk on the phone?✔
Yea, that's about it. Most watches are wasted on me.
This the one with the cushion like actual cushion case ?!! I would love to have one!!
And NO I don’t want a GADA watch I want all watches muhahHahaha!! Ok I shouldn’t post while I’m buzz… ok carry on!!
Ohhh now I get CB’s avatar name hahahaa!!! @AllTheWatches damn it stupid!! See this is why. Need to drink more!! Opens up my mind yo!! Ok I’m out!!
All of my watches are "Go Nowhere, Do Nothing" (GNDN) watches.
Can I sit in a chair and look at a computer screen? ✔
Can I stand and say whatever comes into my head (which hopefully helps my client)? ✔
Can I talk on the phone?✔
Yea, that's about it. Most watches are wasted on me.
You know what I've found? The people I get along with most in life are the ones who live life without illusion.
When it comes to watches, it always blows me away when someone says something like, "I would get X, but it only has 200M WR. They need to get with the times and get it to 300M!"
What I love about you, sir, is that you are willing to fearlessly look at the universe and admit that it's all meaningless!
This the one with the cushion like actual cushion case ?!! I would love to have one!!
And NO I don’t want a GADA watch I want all watches muhahHahaha!! Ok I shouldn’t post while I’m buzz… ok carry on!!
Ohhh now I get CB’s avatar name hahahaa!!! @AllTheWatches damn it stupid!! See this is why. Need to drink more!! Opens up my mind yo!! Ok I’m out!!
This is the one with a semi cushion case. I mean, it's "cushion" in the sense that it's got that suspension system. Not cushion as in "case shape" like a Panerai!
You know what I've found? The people I get along with most in life are the ones who live life without illusion.
When it comes to watches, it always blows me away when someone says something like, "I would get X, but it only has 200M WR. They need to get with the times and get it to 300M!"
What I love about you, sir, is that you are willing to fearlessly look at the universe and admit that it's all meaningless!
I was deeply influenced by Charvaka. Because its writings have been suppressed or lost, it can mean what I want it to mean.
This is the one with a semi cushion case. I mean, it's "cushion" in the sense that it's got that suspension system. Not cushion as in "case shape" like a Panerai!
Yup that’s what I meant, they should call it… bouncy case or springy 🥳😜
At first I got excited cause I thought this was going to be another auction for a watch that has been on my list for a while now (since dropping $6k is not in the cards, responsibilities ya know). This is an absolute monster of a watch. Does stuff like sand or dust get stuck inside the suspension case?😂
At first I got excited cause I thought this was going to be another auction for a watch that has been on my list for a while now (since dropping $6k is not in the cards, responsibilities ya know). This is an absolute monster of a watch. Does stuff like sand or dust get stuck inside the suspension case?😂
Not that I've noticed! But, it's not my watch! I'm only borrowing it for a week or two from edge168n!
I've been interested in Formex for a while, but they don't quite have something in their catalogue that matches my preferred aesthetic yet. It's like they're always just a step away from something I'd buy!
I've been interested in Formex for a while, but they don't quite have something in their catalogue that matches my preferred aesthetic yet. It's like they're always just a step away from something I'd buy!
That's how I felt about GS... and then when the flood gates opened, they really opened!!!
I couldn't wear a Formex as it always sounded like a condom brand to me!
One of those brand where I hear the name and it's like... nope... not happening.
RHEC
Raise Hell and Eat Cornbread....🤏🏻😆🤙🏻
You know what I've found? The people I get along with most in life are the ones who live life without illusion.
When it comes to watches, it always blows me away when someone says something like, "I would get X, but it only has 200M WR. They need to get with the times and get it to 300M!"
What I love about you, sir, is that you are willing to fearlessly look at the universe and admit that it's all meaningless!
500m is the new 300m FYI....
I have owned the white dial 39 mm Essence for about two years now and can vouch that it is a fantastic watch.
Despite the fact that the suspension mecanism is almost useless if your wear your watch over the wristbone, unless you set for a super-tight bracelet..
It's slim, comfortable, it has no screw-down crown because it does not need one, which makes for an easy wind -up and the dial is inspired by a 7118/1A - NAUTILUS Patek Philippe, which cannot be bad.
the Formex bracelets and straps are excellent, the Essence is, along with my Scurfa Top Side Crew, a real treat for the wrist comfort-wise.
Too GADA ? Maybe, but I have more specialized watches, such as #semperadhuc
I'm not exactly sure what is GADA within my collection. Is a Cartier roadster GADA?
A Grand Seiko SLGA007 (Lake Suwa)?
I have not tried on the 43mm, but obviously like the 41mm. If you like the larger ones, let the freak flag fly Brian. :-)
Any idea how the Essence 39 wears on a 6 inch wrist? The specs look interesting but I have no way to try it on without buying it first.
I have a 6.75" wrist, and it fits like a glove. The bracelet articulates so well, and conforms so well to the wrist that I would think that it would work great for 6" wrist too - also, keep in mind that each link is effectively a half-link, so you get so much better articulation!
But, I may not be the best judge of these things - I prefer very large watches. I have a bunch of 44mm watches and consider anything below 40mm to be watches for toddlers!
Lug-to-lug, the Essence 39 is only 45mm! The lugs curve downward. And, finally, if there's any hesitancy, you can always get it on strap, and strap will also help it to wear smaller.
I had just found out about this watch not long ago. It is the most ME watch I've ever seen. It instantly became my Grail. I had yet to buy a Grail and started saving. Unfortunately I've gotten extremely sick. Even though it's not a super expensive watch , with every spare penny going to doctors, hospital or pharmacies there's no way I'll get it now. This health issue is permanent. I'm 50 but only a couple years into watch collecting so it sucks I'll never own one but I find happiness in the fact that so many of my fellow collectors have gotten theirs and love it. This is an amazing post. One of the best of read on here. Watch collectors are some of the craziest people in the planet and I'm all for it. I truly don't know how much longer I'll be on here but you guys give me smiles daily and I love you for that! LOVE THE FORMEX ESSENCE!
I had just found out about this watch not long ago. It is the most ME watch I've ever seen. It instantly became my Grail. I had yet to buy a Grail and started saving. Unfortunately I've gotten extremely sick. Even though it's not a super expensive watch , with every spare penny going to doctors, hospital or pharmacies there's no way I'll get it now. This health issue is permanent. I'm 50 but only a couple years into watch collecting so it sucks I'll never own one but I find happiness in the fact that so many of my fellow collectors have gotten theirs and love it. This is an amazing post. One of the best of read on here. Watch collectors are some of the craziest people in the planet and I'm all for it. I truly don't know how much longer I'll be on here but you guys give me smiles daily and I love you for that! LOVE THE FORMEX ESSENCE!
I’m sorry to hear of your health issues. I’m glad that the lunatic ramblings here in WC are bringing you smiles!
This is the most watch collector post I've ever read.
"This watch is TOO perfect and TOO versatile. I just don't know where I'd wear it."
We are all completely insane, each and every one of us.
I understand Mr. D.B.'s thinking. I've seen the question asked "What Rolex do I wear with a t-shirt and jeans?" My answer would be "None."
I also think he's having a little fun here, but just a little.
Yeah, when I listen to my wife talking about crocheting...
... and all the intricacies associated with that hobby, I'm like...
Pot, kettle, all that.
Weird, but . . . interesting. People who don't collect anything are not interesting. People who are collectors are in fact interesting. It doesn't even matter what they collect.
I understand Mr. D.B.'s thinking. I've seen the question asked "What Rolex do I wear with a t-shirt and jeans?" My answer would be "None."
I also think he's having a little fun here, but just a little.
You don't need to defend his honor. He's not worth it! 😉
I am very certainly just poking fun at @Mr.Dee.Bater not the least because 1) we are IRL friends and 2) it's my watch he's complaining about.
You don't need to defend his honor. He's not worth it! 😉
I am very certainly just poking fun at @Mr.Dee.Bater not the least because 1) we are IRL friends and 2) it's my watch he's complaining about.
If anything, it's convinced me to get the Essence Leggera 43. Carbon fiber composite case!!! 50g! I can't wait!!!
Oh I loved the watch, the hard angular lines, the symmetry of the dial, it's all on point, however I already own a similar watch, a 44GS and mine has the edge (hehe) in my opinion by being a grab and go, GADA high-accuracy quartz. HOWEVER, doing more research on formex I saw they launched a limited edition with meteorite dial and that one is currently on my list.
I mean look at that thing.
You were looking at the meteorite, which is amazing but for me it's the Malachite. If I was gonna get a watch from Formex, how could it not be this? (I say that but I like a number of their colourways 😆)
But like the meteorite, it was a special edition and they'll probably never make a second round! Sad times 😞
Just got the green dialed Essence 39 and I agree it’s a brilliant watch. Not sure I get the issue with GADA watches I’ve got eight that I’d consider GADAs with number nine on the way.
A watch I can wear at anytime doesn’t mean I’ve got to wear it all the time.