Founded by engineer Hans Fricker (who also co-developed "Chronoswiss") in Biel/Bienne
First models with patent protection for the suspended case – sporty-technical
from 2016 (new foundation)
Acquisition by entrepreneur Raphael Granito (called "New Formex")
Online direct sales / Modern design / Swiss automatic movements (Sellita, COSC certification) / New serial number systems
today
Headquarters in Biel, Switzerland
Collections: Essence, Field, Diver, Reef, Pilot, Space Racer etc.
Serial numbers / Works numbers
Formex does not use classic “consecutive serial numbers” like historical manufacturers, but rather serial number groups per model series , usually engraved:
on the bottom of the case or the edge of the case (e.g. “S 02134”)
rarely on the movement itself — because almost all movements are based on Sellita (SW200/300) , ETA (2824/2892) or Chronometer-COSC master data.
Serial number orientation (from new foundations in 2016)
format
Meaning
Timeframe
S 00xxxx
Early new production (Essence Leggera, Pilot Chrono)
ca. 2016 – 2018
S 02xxxx / RFE####
Modernized series with COSC certificates
2019 – 2021
RFS#### / F#######
Current reference numbers (Reef Diver, Essence 41 / 39 mm)
from 2021
🔍 Note: Formex manages serial number ↔ year of manufacture internally – you can write to them directly, they will provide information (free of charge).
Works and thus directly derivable years
Product name
type
Production time / Use at Formex
ETA 2892-A2
Automatic (28,800 A/h)
First models 1999 – 2005
ETA 7750 / Valjoux Chronograph
Automatic Chronograph
2000 – 2010 (“4 Speed Chrono”)
Sellita SW200-1
Automatic 3-hand
Main model from 2017 (Essence, Diver series)
Sellita SW300-1
Flat automatic chronometer
from 2020 (COSC versions Reef/Essence)
Sellita SW1000 / SW200M
Compact calibers
from 2021 (Essence 39 mm)
→ Inside, the year the movement was built is almost identical to the year the watch was produced (max. ±1 year difference).
External dating characteristics
Design feature
Chronological context
Large cushion-shaped case, industrial design
~ 1999 – 2010 (“Formex 4Speed”, “Motorsport”)
Rotor-shaped logo, carbon fiber inlays
2000s
Hinged or suspension housing with "shock absorber"
all up to approximately 2015
New “F-Logo in circular form” + “Essence / Reef” designation
from 2017
Quick-release bracelet & COSC certificate visible through glass case back
