our-story
Our Story
Formex Swiss Made Watches, established in 1999, is an independent family-owned watch manufacturer based in Biel/Bienne - known as the cradle of Swiss watchmaking. With our roots in high-end watch manufacturing, we develop and produce watches that meet the highest quality standards in the industry, and equip them with unique engineered features to add more functionality and comfort. Through an innovative distribution model, Formex offers an affordable luxury watchmaking experience for those who appreciate fine timepieces and exceptional craftsmanship. But what’s our story?
Where We Come From
The Formex history goes back 20 years when two Swiss brothers, both watchmakers and enthusiasts alike, wanted to combine their passion for watches with their love for motorsports.
"Formex = forme extrème, French for ‘extreme shape’"
Inspired by the engineering and mechanics of high performance racing cars and bikes, the two brothers developed the brand’s signature patented Case Suspension System. This cushion-like system protects the watch’s movement and considerably adds to the comfort on the wrist, while giving every Formex a very distinctive, robust and sporty look.
Where we are going
Over the following fifteen years, Formex launched over forty collections of modern timepieces, all featuring the patented Case Suspension System. The brand became widely recognized among aficionados of extraordinarily designed sports watches.
"An innovative distribution model, paired with our strong ties to high-end manufacturing, allows us to offer a top-notch Swiss luxury watch at a unique price point. "
In 2016, Formex opted out of traditional brick and mortar sales and introduced a new distribution model, based on a direct-to-consumer approach. We refrain from expensive marketing campaigns or celebrity endorsements and invest the money where it matters most; the product development and engineering, the materials and the craftsmanship.
We Practice What We Preach
CEO Raphael Granito embodies the brand’s passion for speed, precision, mechanics and adrenaline. From an early age, he spent his school holidays working in his father’s watch component company. He learned the conception, development and production of elaborate timepieces from some of the most renowned brands in the industry.
"Breaking boundaries, taking risks and testing limits was always a part of Formex. Our timepieces have everything it takes to become the most faithful partner on your own adventures."
Today, Raphael is a watch aficionado, downhill skater, car racer, snowboarder, freediver, surfer, skydiver and paraglider. With adventure in his heart and technical expertise in his mind, Raphael transitioned the successful Formex brand into the new age of online business.
Swiss Made
All our watches are designed, developed, and assembled in-house at our headquarters in Biel-Bienne, Switzerland, and meet the current, more strict Swiss Made requirement, which entered into force in January 2017. Every single piece undergoes a variety of quality and functionality controls, before making it to your wrist.
Free Express Delivery
All watch prices already include free shipping worldwide. As soon as we have processed your order, you will receive a tracking number to follow your package. Expect your watch within 2 business days within Europe, or within 3 business days for overseas orders.
Secure Payment
Formex is dedicated to online payment security. We do not store any of your payment information. The following methods of payment are available: VISA, Mastercard, AMEX, ApplePay, PayPal & Bank Transfer
3-Year Warranty
We back our watches with a 3-Year international warranty. In the rare case of a malfunction or a movement defect, you can contact us and send your watch back free of charge and we’ll repair it for you within 2 weeks.