Formex Reef 39.5 Forged Carbon: A New Dive Watch Aesthetic

Formex has expanded its Reef 39.5 collection with a new iteration featuring a forged carbon dial and bezel insert. This latest model prioritizes visual appeal, showcasing the unique texture and pattern of forged carbon, rather than focusing on weight reduction [The Calibrated Wrist]. The Reef 39.5 Forged Carbon builds upon the foundation of the Reef collection, known for its robust 300m dive watch capabilities and interchangeable bezels and straps [Monochrome Watches].

Forged Carbon Construction and Design

The defining characteristic of this new Reef 39.5 is the use of forged carbon for both the dial and the bezel. Forged carbon is created by compressing short carbon fibers under heat and pressure, resulting in a distinctive, irregular pattern that varies with each piece [Monochrome Watches]. Formex emphasizes the material’s visual and tactile qualities, offering a more organic aesthetic compared to traditional materials like ceramic or steel [The Calibrated Wrist].

The dial is mounted on a brass base for stability, preserving the signature bevelled date window at the 6 o’clock position. The 120-click dive bezel features numerals engraved using a femtosecond laser and filled with Super-LumiNova for enhanced legibility [Monochrome Watches].

Technical Specifications and Features

Beyond the aesthetic changes, the Reef 39.5 Forged Carbon retains the core technical specifications of the Reef 39.5 series. Key features include:

• Case Size: 39.5mm diameter, 11mm thickness, 45.5mm lug-to-lug [Formex Watch]
• Water Resistance: 300m [Formex Watch]
• Movement: COSC-certified Sellita SW300-1 automatic movement with a 56-hour power reserve [The Calibrated Wrist]
• Case Material: Stainless steel exterior with a titanium container
• Crystal: Sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating
• Bezel: Fully functional, 120-click dive bezel
• Indices and Hands: Applied indices and hands with Super-LumiNova

The watch also maintains the Reef collection’s interchangeable bezel system and quick-release strap options, allowing for customization.

Availability and Debut

The Formex Reef 39.5 Forged Carbon will make its debut at Chronopolis, an independent watch gathering in Geneva from April 14–18, 2026, alongside Watches and Wonders [The Calibrated Wrist]. Further details are available on the Formex website [Formex Watch].