Back in March of this year Formex introduced their first Essence Ceramica model, a dramatic addition to their signature collection with a ceramic case and skeleton dial. Now they’re expanding the collection with a quartet of closed dial options with the Essence Ceramica COSC Automatic 41mm. Same full ceramic construction, now with new dials and a new movement.
Starting with the case, it measures 41mm in diameter in black ceramic with vertically brushed finishing across the flat bezel and polished edges. Ceramic is a popular high-end case material due to its impressive scratch resistance, being seven times harder than steel. It works well for the Essence’s combination of sweeping lines and angular facets, heightening the industrial vibe of the piece.
Obviously, the key aspect of this new collection is that the ceramic case has been paired with a closed dial display for the first time. It features the signature horizontal engraved lines seen across the rest of the collection in a choice of white, blue, dégradé (gradient brown) or gamaret (wine). Normally when there’s a selection of colours like this, there’s at least one dud, but I actually like each of these for their own reasons. The white contrasts nicely with the black ceramic case while the blue is one of the signature colours of the Essence range, the dégradé stands out for its gradient while the gamaret is my personal favourite for its richness.
Below the surface of those dials, and visible through the exhibition caseback, is the Soprod Newton P092 with 44-hour power reserve. Its use here is a marker of the beginning of a new partnership between Formex and Soprod as they join Sellita as one of the brand’s official movement providers. Each movement is COSC chronometer certified but not satisfied with that, they also undergo additional testing by Chronofiable Laboratoire Dubois to ensure reliability under an even wider range of conditions, including advanced aging, temperature and shock.
Priced at £2,990 it sits in that mid-range luxury sports watch bracket occupied by the likes of Oris 400 models and the Tag Heuer Carrera. Specs-wise is stands up to that competition very favourably thanks to its chronometer status and ceramic case. This collection makes it feel like the Essence Ceramica has properly arrived at last in a form that everyone can enjoy.
Price and Specs:
More details at Formex.
