Formex Takes to the Skies with a Practical GMT Pilot’s Watch

Formex introduces the Stratos UTC 41mm, a watch that exemplifies the brand’s innovative spirit, bringing fresh ideas to the world of mechanical watches. This pilot’s watch features an advanced GMT complication, which the Biel/Bienne-based family company refers to as a “True-GMT Function.” Powered by the reliable ETA 2892 automatic movement, it also incorporates a bespoke Dubois-Dépraz module.

The standout feature of the Stratos UTC 41mm is its innovative GMT functionality, allowing adjustments not via the crown, but through recessed pushers on the case side. These buttons enable one-hour increments in both directions for seamless time zone changes.

Formex has meticulously crafted the 316L stainless steel case, which measures 41mm in diameter and is water-resistant to 10 bar. The case finish is a thoughtful combination of brushed surfaces, hand-polished bevels, and machine-precision sandblasted recesses, inspired by supersonic aircraft designs. The sandblasted sections softly diffuse light, creating a sleek side profile that contrasts elegantly with the rest of the case. This design continues onto the pushers, which blend smoothly into the aerodynamic profile, accented with polished bevels. The screw-down crown is decorated with a brushed logo on a sandblasted background. The bidirectional 48-click stainless steel bezel, which allows the setting of a third time zone, is laser-engraved and filled with colored resin. This technique produces a smooth surface where the numerals remain level with the bezel, preserving the strength of the stainless steel.

The dial, crafted by Formex’s dial manufacture in the Swiss Jura Mountains, is available in blue, green, and gray and the complexity of the case finish and the attention to detail. A radiant sunburst finish emanates from the center, meeting a stepped, grained hour track and a date sub dial at 6 o’clock. The 24-hour ring on the minute track features a circular brushed texture, while the applied Formex logo at 12 o’clock and the day/night indicator at 9 o’clock add depth. The hand-painted numerals at 3, 6, 9, and 12 o’clock are filled with Super-LumiNova BGW9 and are alternated with applied indices.

The self-winding movement can be admired through the exhibition case back, which, like the dial, is protected by sapphire crystal. A customized, partially skeletonized rotor serves as the visual highlight of the intricately decorated caliber.

The Stratos UTC 41mm is available with a stainless steel bracelet featuring a butterfly clasp and a hidden 4mm micro-extension for $$3,990 or with a leather strap for $3,850. International shipping, 30-day free returns, and 3-year international warranty are included. Taxes and duties for shipping addresses within the U.S. are also included.

The watch is now available for pre-order, with delivery expected in late November 2024.

To learn more, visit Formex, here.