Who’s behind Formex?
Formex Watch SA, is an independent watch manufacturer based in Biel/Bienne, Switzerland. The enthusiast-based brand was founded in 1998 by Hans Peter Grädel and his Partners. They are the inventors of the patented case suspension system. In 2015 the company was taken over by Raphaël Granito, a young entrepreneur from Biel/Bienne, who changed the business model and transitioned the brand into the digital age. Granito combines his family's expertise in watchmaking with his love for high octane action sports.
What makes Formex Swiss-made watches special?
Formex is a family-run boutique watch manufacturer that resides at the nexus of innovative engineering and distinctive design. The founders' extensive experience designing, creating, and manufacturing intricate watch components for the Swiss high-end watch industry explains the features that were specifically built in and the materials that were selected to give each Formex its unmatched functionality, comfort, and durability. Along with the patented case suspension system, Formex was a pioneer in the addition of gradual micro-adjust clasps to steel bracelets and, in particular, leather and rubber straps. All of these bracelets and straps feature tool-free quick-release systems that enable changing straps (and even bezels) in a matter of seconds. Every Formex item is designed to be worn and cherished as a daily timepiece. Featuring some of the thinnest and lightest cases in the sports watch category, the best mechanical accuracy standards in the industry, and 100 meters or greater of water resistance.
Who do I contact if I have questions about the ordering process?
During our business hours, MO-FR 8AM-12PM / 2PM-5PM in Swiss timezone (GMT+2), you can reach us via the live chatbox on our website. If the chatbox is not live, you can reach us by sending us a message with the contact form.
What happens if a model is currently not available?
It sometimes happens that our models are sold out. If you are particularly interested in a watch model that is currently not available, please contact us, so we can inform you when it is back in stock or hold one for you.
How can I stay informed about special deals and new model releases?
As a watch manufacturer with a direct-to-consumer approach, we use the web as preferred channel to release our news. You can follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date and subscribe to our newsletter here.
What level of quality can I expect from FORMEX?
All Formex watches are tested for their robustness, functionality and waterproofness thoroughly. We only use the highest quality of materials, which are worked on with a high level of know-how and craftsmanship. All Formex models undergo a tough series of lab tests to simulate wear and tear before they get certified. All components are quality checked after every manufacturing step, before they make it into one of our watches. We offer a 3-year warranty on all Formex timepieces.
How do I buy a FORMEX watch?
Browse through our online store and pick your favorite model. You can indicate your wrist size (measure it with our wrist size measurement) and add your watch to the basket. Check your order and proceed to check out. If you have any questions about the ordering process, please contact us and we're happy to assist.
Where can I buy Formex watches and accessories?
A Formex watch can be bought directly on our online store or through a handful of carefully selected distributors.
Can I adapt the strap size myself?
Leather straps can’t be adapted in size and should be ordered by providing the correct wrist size.
Rubber straps can be adapted by removing the buckle and shortening the strap with a pair of scissors.
Titanium and stainless steel bracelets can be shortened or lengthened with the appropriate tools.
Can I change a FORMEX strap by myself?
Yes, all our watches are equipped with standard issue spring bars, which you can change on your own with the appropriate tool. The Motorsport model's straps are attached to the watch head by allen screws, for which you get tools when buying a watch. The Element and Essence model's straps feature the Quick Release system, allowing to change straps and bracelets without the use of any tools.
Do all straps and bracelets in the online store fit all watch models?
No. To find the strap that fits your Formex watch, go to Accessories and tap your model.
Can I add a note to the gift?
Yes, add what you want to write to the “order notes” section in the check-out page.
Can I have the watch sent to somebody else’s address?
Yes, just tick the box “shipping to a different address” and add the shipping address.
Can I order a FORMEX wrapped as a Gift?
Yes, please add a comment in the “order notes” section when completing your order and we will wrap the watch as a gift.
Is the credit card payment option safe?
Yes, none of your credit card data gets stored on our site. Security is handled by Stripe, PayPal and Klarna which are world-leading online payment providers.
What payment options are available?
VISA and MasterCard credit cards
PayPal
Bank transfer: If you choose to pay by bank transfer, your order will be shipped after the payment reaches our account. Please choose to carry any processing fees that your bank may charge or your payment will not arrive in full.
Payment by installments: more information to follow
Can I pick up my order at your offices?
Most certainly! We’d love to have a chat with you and offer you a coffee, just mention it in the order notes. You can visit us Monday through Friday during office hours. If you would like to come and check out our collections, please call us ahead to make an appointment.
What happens if I’m not home when my shipment arrives?
In Switzerland: The mail man will leave a collection slip in your mailbox, which you can use to pick up your package at your local post office the next day.
International: UPS will leave a slip in your mail box with contact information. You can contact them to set a new delivery time or change your delivery address.
Can I track my shipment?
As soon as we ship your order, you will get an E-mail with your tracking information.
Is my shipment covered by insurance?
Yes, all shipments are insured for the full value by our courier service.
Do I have to pay additional taxes and duties when receiving a FORMEX watch?
This depends on the shipping destination. Please contact us by Email at info@formexwatch.com or through our LIVE chat to check if you would need to consider additional taxes and duties for your order. Thank you.
Do I have to pay for shipping?
At Formex we ship all our watches for free, world- wide, no exceptions.
Accessories with a shopping cart value of less than 200 CHF cannot be shipped for free internationally and will have additional shipping cost.
I ordered the wrong watch/accessory. What now?
If we haven’t processed your order yet, you can use your Formex account to cancel your order and change it. You can also contact us in the live chat.
Can I return my watch?
Yes, you have 30 days to send your watch back. However, for an exchange or full refund, the watch must be unworn, which means there can’t be any signs of wear and it has to be in its original packaging with all manuals and warranty cards. Send us an e-mail at support@formexwatch.com and we'll send you a return label and instructions. Please do not return your watch by creating your own shipping label as we won't be able to refund shipping costs and taxes/duties that may apply to your return. Watches that show signs of wear will be returned to you and no refund will be issued.
Can I return my strap/clasp/other accessories?
All accessories are consumables and are not eligible for free returns. If you opt to return accessories separately from your watch order, kindly be informed that you will bear the responsibility for the return shipping expenses. To streamline the process and facilitate accurate Swiss customs declaration, please reach out to us via email at support@formexwatch.com . We will provide you with a pre-paid shipping label for your convenience. Please note that the shipping costs incurred during the initial shipment and the return shipment, along with any applicable taxes and duties, will be deducted from your refund amount.
When can I return a watch and expect a full refund?
The watch can’t be worn, which means there can’t be any signs of wear and it should be in its original packaging with all manuals and warranty cards.
Can I return my watch if I want to change order modalities?
If your order has not been shipped, you can cancel your order and place it again. However, if you would like to return your watch to change an order modality, such as change of payment method or similar, shipping cost will be deducted from your refund.
What happens to my payment after I send the watch back?
After we checked your watch for any signs of usage, we will refund your amount paid to the same initial payment method.
Where should I send my watch for repairs?
Before sending your watch in, please get in touch with us. We'll provide you with the details of a Formex certified watchmaker who can assist you. Please be aware that taxes and duties may apply depending on the country you're shipping from. You can request reimbursement at your country's customs office. To do this, you'll typically need to provide the tracking numbers for both shipments. We suggest keeping them readily available.
What’s covered by the Warranty?
Our warranty covers defects or malfunctions, such as manufacturing defects or movement malfunctions, that occur without external influence.
In such a case, you can return the watch and we repair or replace it free of charge.
How do I take care of my FORMEX correctly?
You can wear your watch in any situation. However, if you wear it in salt water or in a dusty environment, it’s best to rinse it off with fresh water afterwards to keep it nice and shiny. In general, the best way to clean your Formex is with a soft cloth and warm water. Don’t use any chemical products. To clean in between the case suspension, crown and pushers as well as in between the links of a titanium bracelet, simply use a smooth toothbrush. To clean your leather band, moisten a cotton cloth with warm water, add one drop of moisturizing liquid hand soap and create suds. Gently wipe the watch band, then remove the soap residue, lay it in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and apply some neutral leather conditioner once it’s completely dry.
How often should a quartz watch be serviced?
A quartz watch needs a battery change about every second year. This can easily be done by a watchmaker near you, or you can send it to us.
How often should a mechanical watch be serviced?
We advise to send your watch in every 5 years for a service. We will check your FORMEX and contact you to let you know what needs be done and how much it will cost.
