Aria Manufacture Chronometer

Description

It's been ten years since Raphaël Granito began orchestrating the strategy of the independent Biel/Bienne based watch brand Formex. Ten years, during which collectors and enthusiasts around the world witnessed an ambitious and client-centric vision quickly taking shape. First with distinctive designs, smart functional solutions and the introduction of innovative materials at competitive prices. Now the time has come to expand the brand's horological opus with a fresh take on both the design and heart of a modern wristwatch.

The new 40 mm Formex Aria Manufacture Chronometer marks the debut of the FX01 micro-rotor movement, engineered and manufactured by movement expert Horage and based on its K2 caliber architecture. Like Formex, Horage has built its reputation on innovation-driven engineering, making the partnership a natural fit between two independent Biel/Bienne neighbors located just six minutes apart and sharing a common philosophy of challenging convention through technical development.

Measuring just 2.9 mm in height, the COSC-certified manufacture caliber combines a full silicon regulating system, including hairspring, escape wheel and pallet fork, with several technical solutions. Among them is a flexible gear train pinion, produced using advanced LIGA technology, which eliminates backlash during time setting by maintaining constant tension throughout the gear train. The result is an exceptionally precise and responsive setting experience, where the minute hand immediately follows every movement of the crown. An ultra-efficient mainspring system increases winding efficiency by 55%, enabling a power reserve of 72 hours despite the movement's remarkably slim profile.

The Aria is housed in an ultra-thin Grade 5 titanium architecture with an integrated bracelet and organic lines, measuring just 6.9 mm in height and weighing only 78 grams including its titanium bracelet. Inspired by the way water, wind, and time gradually sculpt natural forms, the Aria combines flowing surfaces with sharp mechanical precision. Its case, bracelet, clasp and dial are the result of Formex's close vertical integration with its family-owned watch component manufacturing business specializing in the conceptualization, development and production of high-end watch components. Continuing Formex's long-standing focus on wearer comfort, the integrated bracelet features a patented micro-adjustment system that allows the bracelet to be extended by 3 mm on each side instantly, without opening the clasp or removing the watch from the wrist.

A lacquered dial, finished with a matte surface, transforms the passage of time into a sculptural landscape. Much like a basin carved into rock over centuries, each beveled index rests on a subtly raised platform while the surrounding surface falls away in a gentle concave curve, creating a remarkable sense of depth despite the watch's overall thinness. Every index interrupts the curvature with a subtle radial line, adding structure and visual tension to the otherwise fluid design. The dial's complex geometry, together with the seamless integration of case, bracelet and clasp, reflects Formex's ability to translate component manufacturing expertise into a cohesive watch design where engineering and aesthetics evolve in parallel.

The 100-piece Founders Edition was unveiled on May 29, 2026, and sold out within three days.

Supplied by the brand to the GPHG for its entry.