Formex’s field watch takes to the skies with new Formex AirField 40mm Automatic
Andrew O'Connor- Formex turns its field watch into a pilot’s watch with the new AirField 40mm Automatic model.
- With a pilot’s watch-inspired dial and hand set, the AirField features the new Sellita SW200-2 Power+ and a hardened titanium case.
- Available in four different colours, the Formex AirField 40mm Automatic is available for pre-order now, with deliveries starting at the end of October 2026.
Formex’s recently released Aria really swung for the fences. With its well-finished integrated bracelet, movement in partnership with Horage, and ultra-thin construction, it was a big step forward for the brand. That being said, Formex is likely best known amongst watch enthusiasts for its clever case and clasp engineering, and great value for the money.
Formex’s higher-end offerings are still a great value, but the reality of higher costs that come with improved fit and finish and premium materials becomes apparent very quickly. For its latest release, Formex has switched directions again, focusing on producing a more widely accessible timepiece based on its Field watch series. Rugged and versatile, Formex saw its Field model as a great platform to continue aiming for the skies, releasing the new Formex AirField Automatic.
For those familiar with the Formex Field series, the new AirField models keep the case largely the same. The 40mm wide grade 2 titanium case measures 10.5mm thick, 48mm lug-to-lug, has a 20mm lug width, and weighs a featherlight 54 grams for the case alone.
The case is treated with a hardness coating, increasing surface hardness to 900 Vickers, which is about five times harder than conventional stainless steel. The case is water-resistant to 150 metres, and the solid caseback features an engraving of a radial aeroplane engine.
Like any good pilot’s watch, the Formex AirField is designed to be as legible as possible. With broad pilot’s watch hands, printed Arabic numerals, and a printed orientation triangle synonymous with pilot’s watches, the AirField looks the part while still feeling distinctly Formex. At six o’clock is a bevelled date window with a colour-matched date wheel. Speaking of colour, the AirField comes in four colours: Desert Sand, Horizon Blue, Jet Black, and Tarmac Grey. The blacked-out hands and indices of the Desert Sand model have Grade A Super-LumiNova, while the other models use Grade A BGW9 Super-LumiNova. The seconds hand also features an aeroplane counterbalance, in case there was any doubt about the AirField’s aviation focus.
Powering the Formex AirField is the Sellita SW200-2 Power+, a recently released upgraded version of the SW200. With 26 jewels and operating at 28,800 bph, the SW200-2 Power+ features an improved power reserve of 65 hours. This increase from the original SW200’s 41-hour power reserve is a welcome improvement for those who cycle through a larger collection, or who take their watch off over the weekend.
Formex provides two strap material options for the AirField. The first is Formex’s nylon strap with a Velcro closure. With its use of elastic and a water-resistant construction, the nylon strap makes for a lightweight, rugged, and comfortable strap option.
For those who prefer a more traditional material, Formex also offers leather straps paired with the brand’s carbon-fibre deployant clasp, which offers 7mm of incremental micro-adjustment and can be adjusted without removing the watch from the wrist.
Formex AirField 40mm Automatic pricing and availability.
The Formex AirField 40mm Automatic is available for pre-order now from the Time+Tide Studios in London and New York, with shipping expected to start at the end of October 2026. Price: CHF 830 (nylon strap)/CHF 970 (leather strap)
| Brand | Formex |
| Model | AirField 40 Automatic |
| Case Dimensions | 40mm (D) x 10.5mm (T) x 48mm (LTL) |
| Case Material | Grade 2 titanium, hardened |
| Water Resistance | 150 metres |
| Crystal(s) | Sapphire front, anti-reflective coating |
| Dial | Desert Sand, Horizon Blue, Jet Black and Tarmac Grey |
| Bracelet | Nylon with Velcro closure, or leather strap, carbon-fibre deployant clasp |
| Movement | Sellita SW200-2 Power+, automatic |
| Power Reserve | 65 hours |
| Functions | Hours, minutes, seconds, date |
| Availability | Pre-order available now, shipping at the end of October 2026 |
| Price | CHF 830 (nylon strap)/CHF 970 (leather strap) |