
Hands On: Vero Airtanker Watch US Forest Service Edition
Rob Nudds gets hands on with an unusual watch, but one that he knows very well. Having taken it on an expedition in America he is confident in it's durability
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Selected Colour: Malachite Green/ Steel Bracelet
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The Formex Essence ThirtyNine combines elegance and engineering in equal measure. The distinctive angular case and crisp dial are instantly recognisable as part of the Formex portfolio and epitomise what the brand is known for – high-end precision manufacturing and uncompromising quality.
As with all Formex watches the Essence ThirtyNine is finished to the highest standard. The 100m water resistant case is made from brushed steel accented with hand-finished polished chamfers. The dial is available in multiple colours, including a dégredé finish, and the striking horizontal lines are individually CNC machined in order to achieve the sharpest angles. What’s more, the bevels of the hands and indices are polished to a mirror finish and are filled with BGW9 Super-LumiNova to ensure superb legibility.
The watch is powered by a Chronometer-certified Sellita SW200-1 automatic movement with a power reserve of 38 hours. This is Sellita’s highest grade movement, so it features a Glucydur balance wheel which is resistant to deformation, magnetic forces, and corrosion. It has also been COSC-certified, so it is accurate to -4/+6 seconds per day. The movement is embellished with thermally blued screws and Formex’s propriety skeletonized rotor, all visible through the sapphire crystal case back.
The Essence ThirtyNine also features some of Formex’s signature technical features. The watch uses their patented Case Suspension System which protects the watch’s movement and improves the comfort of the wearer. Meanwhile, the steel bracelet features both a quick-release system and a micro-adjustable clasp. Both of which can be done by hand.
About this watch
Limited to just 100 pieces per year, this Special Edition features a captivating green dial which is made from the precious stone malachite. The name is said to derive from the Ancient Greek word ‘malache’, which means mallow, as the stone closely resembles the color of the leaves of the mallow plant. Malachite’s spiritual meaning is one of transformation and is said to be the ‘Essence of Joy’. Without going too deep into its metaphysical properties, we feel that by just looking at the malachite’s swirls, rings and intricate marbling is rejuvenating and uplifting.
Movement
The Essence ThirtyNine is powered by Sellita's highest quality grade SW200-1 Swiss Made Automatic movement, beautifully decorated and wound by Formex's custom skeletonized rotor. Each one of these movements is certified by the COSC and undergoes the meticulous 15-day rate test to ensure extraordinary levels of mechanical accuracy and precision.
Dial
The distinctive, patterned coloration, in various shades and swirls from light green to almost black make every single dial a unique piece, non-identical to any other. Just like the other variations of the Essence lineup, the new dial is explicitly unisex. While looking at the dial for too long might feel hypnotic, a quick glance is enough to easily read time. Applied indices, deep-filled with Super-LumiNova® BGW9 and mirror-polished bevels provide legibility day and night.
Straps and Clasps
The stainless steel bracelet, which reflects the same flawless finishing of the Essence's case, has a hidden Micro-Extension. In addition, the steel bracelet can be changed without the use of any tools and in just a few seconds.
Strap Material Colour | Malachite Green/ Steel Bracelet |
---|---|
Watch Dial Colour | Green |
Watch Diameter | 39mm |
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