Formex has been making waves on our blog for quite a while now, and for good reason. Having evolved from an independent brand into a highly respected name in the watch community, they’re known for pushing the boundaries of engineering and design. With their latest release, the Stratos UTC Automatic 41mm, Formex once again proves their knack for innovation, creating what may just be the ultimate travel watch. Equipped with a jump-set true GMT complication, this timepiece offers both functionality and style in one polished package.
Formex has taken a modern approach to the classic pilot’s watch with the Stratos UTC, which features the most user-friendly GMT complication on the market today. Powered by the reliable ETA 2892 movement, Formex has paired it with a custom module designed by the renowned Dubois-Dépraz, a company celebrated for their precision complications that are found in luxury brands like Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet. This combination ensures that the Stratos delivers smooth, efficient time zone changes—a must for frequent travelers.
What sets the Stratos apart is its effortless time adjustment. Instead of fiddling with a crown, local time can be changed via pushers on the case, moving the hour hand forward or backward by one-hour increments. It’s a straightforward solution that doesn’t require stopping the movement or taking the watch off your wrist—perfect for those quick time zone jumps while you’re on the go. The pushers provide a crisp, satisfying mechanical feedback that gives off the same feeling as a high-quality chronograph. Another notable feature is that when the local time crosses midnight, the date adjusts automatically, either forward or backward.
The inclusion of a day/night indicator and a quick-set date function makes the Stratos even more practical. These elements, combined with its sleek design, make it an ideal companion for anyone who juggles multiple time zones or just appreciates high-end craftsmanship in their everyday wear.
Sleek Design with a Pilot’s Heritage
Formex has built the Stratos in their signature style—a stainless-steel case that blends brushed surfaces, polished bevels, and sandblasted cutouts for a layered, dynamic look. Inspired by the aerodynamic designs of supersonic jets, the multi-faceted case balances ruggedness with elegance. The pushers align seamlessly with the aerodynamic profile, adding both function and aesthetic appeal.
The dial reflects the same attention to detail. Created in the Jura mountains by Formex’s own dial atelier, it features a radiant sunray finish at the center, with a grainé-finished hour track and a 24-hour scale along the chapter ring. This intricate dial is enhanced by hand-painted numerals at 3, 6, 9, and 12, filled with Swiss Super-LumiNova BGW9 for a bright, long-lasting glow in low-light conditions. Formex’s signature syringe hands—featuring brushed and diamond-cut edges—add to the precision and readability of the watch. The watch is topped with a sapphire crystal that has an anti-reflective coating, ensuring optimal clarity at all times.
For those looking to track a third time zone, the bi-directional 48-click bezel offers the ability to quickly reference home time. Laser-engraved and filled with colored resin, the bezel maintains a sleek surface, and the numerals stay flush with the steel, keeping both form and function intact.
Anchored in UTC (Coordinated Universal Time), the Stratos embraces the global time standard used in aviation, ensuring accuracy and reliability in international travel—whether for frequent flyers or those who appreciate the finer points of watchmaking.
Everyday Comfort and Durability
Formex is known for prioritizing comfort alongside cutting-edge design, and the Stratos UTC continues this tradition. With curved lugs that conform to the natural shape of the wrist, the Stratos provides a perfect fit, especially when paired with the short, articulated links of the stainless-steel bracelet. Borrowing from their bestselling Essence line, the bracelet also features a butterfly clasp with a hidden micro-extension, adding an extra 4mm of room for those moments when you need a little more space.
For those who prefer a leather strap, the Stratos comes with an Italian calfskin option, equipped with Formex’s patented Carbon Fiber Composite Folding Clasp. This system allows for quick, on-the-go adjustments, so you can always achieve the perfect fit without needing any tools.
Pre-Order Now for November Delivery
The Stratos UTC 41mm Automatic is available for pre-order now at the Formex Online Boutique and select retailers. Prices start at $3,850 for the leather strap version and $3,990 for the solid-link stainless-steel bracelet. All prices include shipping, taxes, and duties for the US, UK, Australia, New Zealand, Switzerland, and most countries within the European Union.
Formex CEO Raphael Granito shared his excitement about the Stratos’ launch: “We’ve built a reputation for pioneering case and clasp systems, and with the Stratos, we wanted to take on a GMT complication that’s not just rare, but truly useful for travelers. We think this watch strikes the perfect balance between innovation, comfort, and practicality.”
For more information or to grab yours, check out Formex below. See you soon!
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