Introducing the New Formex Essence 39

A Proven Design, Refined Where It Matters

Since its introduction in 2018, the Essence has embodied Formex’s approach to combining distinctive design with technical ingenuity and everyday comfort. Now, the independent Swiss brand brings three developments already proven elsewhere in the collection to its popular 39mm model. The Essence 39 mm Automatic COSC retains the characteristic architecture and proportions of the original, while gaining a screw-down crown, the new Sellita SW200-2 Power+  and a redesigned butterfly clasp with tool-free micro-adjustment. Two new dial colours, Alpine White and Radiant Bronze, join the signature blue of the collection.

65 Hours of Power Reserve and a Screw-Down Crown

Inside the 39mm stainless-steel case, water-resistant to 100 meters, beats the new Sellita SW200-2 Power+. The automatic movement delivers a power reserve of 65 hours while retaining a frequency of 4 Hz, or 28,800 vibrations per hour. It is officially certified as a chronometer by COSC, while the movement’s finishing can be viewed through the sapphire case back. The second technical update is the screw-down crown, originally introduced with the Essence Ceramica Skeleton. For the 39mm model, Formex adapted the construction to work with its patented Case Suspension System without altering the watch’s clean silhouette.

Fine Adjustment on the Wrist

Formex also brings its practical micro-adjustment system to the Essence 39. The butterfly clasp, first introduced with the Essence 41 mm Space Ghost Automatic COSC in 2025, allows the stainless-steel bracelet to be adjusted by 3-mm increments over a total range of 6 mm – directly on the wrist and without tools. The system is particularly useful on a metal bracelet, where changes in temperature, activity and movement can affect the fit throughout the day.

Alpine White and Radiant Bronze Join the Signature Blue

The Essence 39 Automatic COSC is available with three dial options. Alongside Formex’s signature blue, Alpine White features blued hands and hour markers for a crisp contrast, while Radiant Bronze, known from the Reef collection, introduces a warmer tone that subtly shifts with the light.

All three versions retain the Essence’s distinctive horizontally grooved dial. Each groove is individually CNC-machined into the surface, creating changing reflections as the watch moves. Faceted hands and applied hour markers complete the design and are filled with Superluminova BGW9 for low-light legibility. At 6 o’clock, the faceted date aperture is matched to the color of the dial.

The Formex Essence 39 mm Automatic COSC will be available from August 27, 2026. Prices start at $1,850 on a nylon, leather or rubber strap and $1,980 on the bracelet. First deliveries are scheduled for October 2026.