Formex Essence Ceramica Skeleton COSC

Formex kicked off its 25th anniversary year with the electrifying launch of the Essence Ceramica Skeleton COSC in Midtown NYC. A milestone moment for the brand, the event brought together members of the Formex community, local watch enthusiasts and industry insiders for the unveiling of its latest breakthrough in ceramic watchmaking. CEO Raphael Granito took center stage to present the new collection, with the Essence Ceramica Skeleton COSC as the undeniable pièce de résistance. Attendees also had the opportunity to gain deeper insights into the innovation behind the timepiece through an engaging live discussion with Granito, highlighting the brand’s commitment to cutting-edge craftsmanship and design.

Priced at CHF 3,970 for the “Stradale” and CHF 4,150 for the “GT” edition, the Essence Ceramica Skeleton COSC redefines value in high-end watchmaking, combining sophisticated engineering, exceptional finishing, and innovative design – all realized in zirconium oxide ceramic. More than just an evolution, it’s a step change in engineering, durability, and design, paired with exceptional wearability and the naturally balanced comfort of ceramic. With a case seven times harder than steel, a COSC-certified skeletonized movement, and the industry’s first micro-adjustable ceramic clasp, it sets new benchmarks for ceramic timepieces—proving once again that Formex is at the forefront of innovation.

Our vision is to make exceptional watchmaking accessible. With the Essence Ceramica Skeleton COSC, we’re bringing over 40 years of my family’s expertise in ceramic watch components to a timepiece that seamlessly blends advanced materials, industry-leading finishing, and engineering innovation—while staying true to our commitment to exceptional value”, says Raphael Granito, CEO of Formex.

Mastering the Art and Engineering of Ceramic

The Essence Ceramica Skeleton COSC brings advanced ceramic expertise to the forefront with its sophisticated combination of vertical-brushed and diamond-polished finishes. Achieving such refined surface treatments in ceramic requires exceptional skill, specialized diamond tooling, and a profound understanding of the material. Thanks to its close connection with Dexel – a reference in the watchmaking industry and a leading expert in ceramic components, owned by the same family – Formex benefits from over 40 years of specialized expertise, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with this advanced material. Each case and bracelet component undergoes multiple finishing stages, resulting in a dynamic interplay of light that brings the ceramic to life – and gives the watch striking wrist presence.

Here, the Essence concept was re-engineered from the ground up to fully express the design and engineering possibilities of ceramic. Over 3 years went into developing this watch, optimizing every element to ensure performance, durability, and aesthetics:

• Brushed & Polished Ceramic: Unlike most ceramic watches that rely on a uniform sandblasted or fully polished finish, the Essence Ceramica Skeleton offers a dynamic interplay of textures, mirroring the aesthetic of Formex’s best selling stainless-steel models.

• Striking Architecture: The openworked dial, manufactured in-house by family-owned high-end Swiss dial maker Cadranor, features intricate brushed and polished elements over multiple tiers, creating depth and dramatic visual impact.

• Screw-Down Crown & Case Suspension System: The first Essence model to feature a screw-down crown, ensuring water resistance to 100m while maintaining Formex’s patented Case Suspension System.

The result? A watch that feels as exceptional as it looks – retaining its pristine, fresh-out-of-the-box appearance for a lifetime. Forever, actually.

Skeleton – Sculpted Transparency

Inside the Essence Ceramica, a COSC-certified movement ensures the top-tier chronometric performance to match. With ruthenium-plated and vertically brushed bridges, it is on full display through the front and back.

The openworked dial, produced in-house by Cadranor, is a feat of micro-engineering. Brushed and polished surfaces interact with the skeletonized movement and its components, underscoring its intricate architecture. Thoughtfully applied colored Super-LumiNova® accents enhance legibility without disruption, ensuring a seamless fusion of art and engineering. The result is a captivating balance of depth, visibility, and functionality.

The Essence Ceramica Skeleton COSC expresses this balance through four iterations, each with its own character and unique interplay of color and contrast:

• Ceramica Skeleton COSC - GT – A bold interpretation featuring a gear-inspired dial, complemented by rose gold hands and indices for warmth and refinement.

• Ceramica Skeleton COSC - Stradale – A more understated execution, with a clean, openworked dial, black hands and indices, and crisp white Super-LumiNova®, offering a bold yet balanced contrast.

• Ceramica Skeleton COSC - Stradale Viola – A distinctive variation of the Stradale, featuring the same black hands and indices, now paired with deep purple Super-LumiNova®, adding a subtle yet expressive touch.

• Ceramica Skeleton COSC - Stradale Blue – Another refined take on the Stradale, with black hands and indices offset by vibrant blue Super-LumiNova®, reinforcing its contemporary appeal

The Case: Precision Engineering, Added Protection, Perfect Fit

A defining feature of the Essence Ceramica is Formex’s patented Case Suspension System, designed to both protect the watch and ensure a perfect, naturally snug fit on the wrist – regardless of conditions or time of day. The system safeguards the mechanical movement by absorbing shocks and enhances comfort with four integrated springs, allowing the watch to dynamically adapt to wrist movements and even subtle wrist size changes due to temperature fluctuations throughout the day. To achieve this in ceramic, the system had to be meticulously re-engineered to maintain structural integrity within the ceramic construction. This breakthrough ensures optimal ergonomics, enhancing both durability and wearability without compromising the sleek design of the Essence Ceramica Skeleton COSC.

A World First: Formex’s Micro-Adjustable Ceramic Bracelet

Extending the same level of precision engineering beyond the case, the Essence Ceramica Skeleton COSC is fitted with a full-ceramic bracelet that mirrors the case’s meticulous finishing. Its brushed surfaces and diamond-polished bevels catch the light with every wrist movement, creating a dynamic interplay of reflections. A true breakthrough lies in the integration of Formex’s purpose-designed, patented micro-adjustable ceramic clasp—a world first—seamlessly incorporated into the ceramic bracelet. Unlike traditional metal clasps, which can be easily machined or even stamped, ceramic’s hardness makes such precision engineering extraordinarily challenging. Yet, Formex has not only succeeded in crafting a ceramic clasp that seamlessly matches the bracelet but has also integrated its patented micro-adjustment system. This groundbreaking mechanism, operating over a range of 5 mm in increments of 1.5mm, allows for fine-tuning the fit on the fly to expand or shorten the bracelet in both directions – for perfect comfort, while the watch is on the wrist, with the clasp closed, and without tools.

Engineered Versatility: Formex’s interchangeable bracelet/strap concept

In addition to additional flexibility in personalizing the fit for optimum comfort, Formex delivers more possibilities for customizing the look and feel to suit the circumstance. The built-in quick-release system allows you to switch from the ceramic bracelet to one of the fitted rubber or leather options – in seconds and tool-free. Each version features its own deployant buckle with Formex’s patented micro-adjustment system.

Why Ceramic? The Luxury of the Ultimate High-Tech Material

Beyond its unique aesthetic, ceramic delivers unrivalled performance:

• Scratch-proof: 7x harder than steel: 1200 Vickers (HV) vs 155 HV (steel) or ~145 HV (titanium)
• Fade-resistant: Completely impervious to UV exposure
• Hypoallergenic & non-porous: Safe for sensitive skin, with no risk of irritation
• Amagnetic: Shields the movement from magnetic interference
• Thermally adaptive: Doesn’t trap heat or cold like metal, ensuring consistent comfort on the wrist..

Ceramic consists of zirconium oxide, an abundant, naturally available material. Besides conserving precious resources, making a ceramic watch requires less energy and generates less waste compared to steel or titanium.

A Shared Connection with a Material Engineered for Extreme Performance

Ceramic is at the core of high-performance engineering, both on the track and on the wrist. In motorsport, ceramic components are used in carbon-ceramic brake discs that withstand extreme heat without fading, turbocharger turbine wheels that enhance engine efficiency under punishing conditions, and heat shields that protect critical components from thermal stress. This ability to thrive under extreme conditions while remaining lightweight, durable, and thermally stable has made ceramic indispensable in the world of racing.

Formex’s connection to motorsport runs deep – its very DNA is shaped by the relentless pursuit of speed, precision, and performance. The Essence Ceramica Skeleton COSC is the ultimate expression of this philosophy. Thanks to its exclusive access to Dexel's 40+ years of expertise in ceramic machining and finishing, Formex is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in watchmaking with this advanced material. The result is a timepiece inspired by motorsport-driven performance, executed with Swiss Made excellence, and offering a seamless fusion of durability, refinement, and all-day comfort..

Form Meets Function – Precision Without Compromise

In both motorsport and high-end watchmaking, precision is everything. Every fraction of a second, every finely tuned component, and every calculated design choice contributes to ultimate performance. The Essence Ceramica Skeleton COSC embodies this philosophy with a COSC-certified automatic movement, a guarantee of chronometric excellence that meets Switzerland’s most rigorous precision standards. Just as a race car’s engine is meticulously engineered to deliver peak performance under pressure, the Essence Ceramica Skeleton COSC operates within the strict tolerances that define true Swiss accuracy.

Its skeletonized movement takes this engineering ethos even further, exposing the curves and lines that define each component – just as in motorsport, where every contour and structure reveals the purity of purpose-driven design. Stripped of excess, revealing only what’s essential, the Essence Ceramica Skeleton COSC is a pure expression of performance-driven design, where form and function merge seamlessly in pursuit of perfection.

Transcending the Boundaries of Ceramic

The Essence Ceramica Skeleton COSC redefines what’s possible in ceramic watchmaking, breaking through the material’s traditional limitations with a level of machining and finishing previously thought unattainable – especially on such intricate components. This breakthrough mirrors the relentless innovation seen in high-performance motorsport, where mastery of ceramic has unlocked new heights of durability and precision. But Formex doesn’t stop at technical achievement; it’s also redefining value. Priced at CHF 3,970, this timepiece delivers craftsmanship and execution typically reserved for watches costing significantly more. The secret? Formex draws on over 40 years of ceramic expertise through Dexel, a family-owned enterprise renowned for its ceramic mastery. This unparalleled in-house experience allows Formex to deliver cutting-edge innovation and craftsmanship with a level of accessibility that truly shatters expectations.

Where others might compromise on functionality or finishing, Formex delivers a no-compromise timepiece with both high-end aesthetics and boundary-pushing technical innovation.

Availability

The Essence Ceramica Skeleton will be available for order beginning March 21, 2025, as a Limited edition of 88 pieces per version. Shipments are expected to commence in July 2025.

With the Essence Ceramica Skeleton, Formex doesn’t just join the high-end ceramic watch segment – it redefines it. This is more than just a timepiece; it's a statement of innovation, performance, and luxury without compromise. As Formex celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2025, the brand continues to push the boundaries of performance, precision, and innovation—hallmarks of its identity since day one. CEO Raphael Granito sums it up:

Performance is nothing without control. In motorsport, power means nothing if you can’t keep it on the road. The same applies to watchmaking—precision and innovation must be matched by perfect ergonomics. That’s why we developed our patented Case Suspension System and the world’s first micro-adjustable ceramic clasp, ensuring the Essence Ceramica Skeleton COSC doesn’t just perform—it fits and moves with you, effortlessly.”

With the excitement of the NYC launch setting the tone, Formex is keeping the momentum strong as it heads to Geneva for another major showcase. As the brand marks 25 years of relentless innovation, 2025 is shaping up to be a milestone year—one filled with groundbreaking releases, bold new ideas, and events that bring the Formex community together like never before.

About Formex

Founded in 2000 and proudly Swiss Made, Formex has relentlessly pushed the boundaries of high-performance watchmaking ever since. Operating independently from its Biel/Bienne headquarters, the brand was revitalized in 2016 under the leadership of Raphael Granito, whose family – owners of Dexel, a key component supplier, and Cadranor, a manufacturer of high-end dials for the Swiss watch industry – brought a new level of technical expertise and vertical integration to Formex.

True to its name – FORMe EXtrême, ‘extreme shape’ in French – Formex was born on the racetrack and has evolved into a leader in precision engineering, ergonomic design, and innovative materials. Its signature patented Case Suspension System enhances both comfort and shock absorption, while exclusive interchangeable strap and clasp systems set new standards for adaptability and ease of wear.

With a hybrid distribution strategy and direct access to state-of-the-art development and manufacturing, Formex continues to redefine expectations, offering timepieces that combine cutting-edge craftsmanship, uncompromising quality, and true Swiss innovation – all at price points that translate into exceptional value.

Technical specifications

Formex Essence Ceramica Skeleton COSC Automatic 41mm

Reference: 0336.9.6051.410: Formex Essence Ceramica Skeleton COSC 41mm - GT

Reference: 0336.9.6011.410: Formex Essence Ceramica Skeleton COSC 41mm - Stradale

Reference: 0336.9.6027.410: Formex Essence Ceramica Skeleton COSC 41mm - Stradale Viola

Reference: 0336.9.6023.410: Formex Essence Ceramica Skeleton COSC 41mm - Stradale Blue

Limited edition of 88 pieces per version

Case

• Material: Scratch-resistant Zirconium Oxide Ceramic (Zr2), vertically brushed surfaces and diamond-polished bevels.
• Integrated and patented Case Suspension System with a titanium grade 2 container.
• Diameter: 41 mm
• Thickness: 11.2mm
• Lug-to-lug: 46.2 mm
• Lug width: 22mm
• Glass: Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with five layers of anti-reflective coating on the inside
• Case back: Zirconium Oxide Ceramic (Zr2) with sapphire crystal display window
• Water-resistant to 100 meters / 330 feet

Dial and hands

• Formex Essence Ceramica Skeleton COSC 41mm - GT:
• - Individually machined dial gears with a vertical brush finish and diamond-cut bevels
• - Grain-textured subdial
• - Rose-gold colored indices with a vertical brush finish and diamond-cut bevels, deep-filled with Super-LumiNova® BGW9 Grade A
• Formex Essence Ceramica Skeleton COSC 41mm - Stradale:
• - Subdial with a vertical brush finish
• - Gun-metal finished indices with vertical brush and diamond-cut bevels, deep-filled with Super-LumiNova® BGW9 Grade A
• - The Viola and Blue variants feature matching Super-LumiNova® X1 Grade A lume in their respective hues
• Hands: Vertical brush finish and diamond-cut polished bevels filled with Super-LumiNova® BGW9. The Viola and Blue variants feature matching Super-LumiNova® X1 Grade A lume in their respective hues

Movement

• Self-winding Swiss Made SW200-1 SC, skeletonized
• Frequency: 28’800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz)
• Number of jewels: 26
• Power reserve of 41 hours
• Officially certified by the COSC.
• Skeletonized rotor.

Functions/Indications

• Hours, minutes, seconds, date

Strap and buckle

• Zirconium Oxide Ceramic (Zr2) solid-link bracelet with vertical brush finish and diamond-polished bevels. Taper from 22mm to 20mm. Removable pin & tube links, tool provided.
• Ceramic clasp with the world’s first and patented micro-adjustment system that allows to adjust the bracelet length over 5 mm in 4 gradual increments of 1.25mm for unparalleled fit customization – within seconds, without the need for a tool. The fit is adjustable on the fly without the need to open the clasp or remove the watch from the wrist.
• Rubber, Nylon and Italian leather straps are available to purchase as add-ons. Those are mounted on Formex’s patented carbon fiber composite clasp with a gradual 7mm on-the-fly micro-adjustment system.
• All straps and the ceramic bracelet can be changed using a quick-release system, which does not require the use of tools.

MSRP

• CHF 4'150 / USD 4'390 / EUR 4'590 / GBP 3'850 - GT
• CHF 3'970 / USD 4'250 / EUR 4'450 / GBP 3'750 - Stradale

For more information, please visit formexwatch.com