by Brent Robillard
A modern pilot watch
When the Stratos showed up earlier this week, I was admittedly excited. In many respects, this is a watch built for me. I own the REEF and we recently had the Essence 39 in for review. Like all Formex watches, the Stratos UTC is robust, “toolish,” and functional, yet there is also a hint of elevated finishing and style. In particular, the Formex Stratos UTC represents a compelling blend of modern pilot watch design and practical GMT functionality. Formex has long been known for delivering well-engineered timepieces at competitive price points, and the Stratos continues that tradition. With its distinctive “true” GMT complication, and an intuitive design, the Stratos is a watch that feels tailor-made for travelers and aviation enthusiasts alike.
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Key Features of the Formex Stratos UTC Automatic True Pilot
Case Construction, Materials, and Dimensions
The Stratos UTC features a multi-layered stainless-steel case with a mix of brushed surfaces, polished bevels, and sandblasted cutouts that add depth and dimension to its design. At 41mm in diameter, 47mm lug-to-lug, and just under 12mm thick, the case is well-proportioned, offering a substantial presence without feeling bulky. Formex’s design language ensures that their watches wear smaller than their on-paper dimensions suggest, and the Stratos is no exception. The case subtly builds towards the bezel in a series of diminishing planes, visually slimming the watch and enhancing its overall ergonomics.
Weighing in at approximately 90 grams on the leather strap, the Stratos is notably light for its category, making it comfortable for all-day wear. Water resistance is rated at 100 meters (10 ATM), adding a layer of reassurance for everyday use and light aquatic activities.
Bezel, Dial, and Crystal
The Stratos features a bidirectional 24-hour rotating bezel, a functional touch that enhances its utility as a pilot’s watch and allows the wearer to track a third time zone, if necessary. The action is smooth and precise, with just the right amount of resistance to prevent accidental adjustments.
The True Pilot Grey dial is well-executed, with a clean layout that balances functionality and aesthetics. Applied indices, a day/night indicator at 9 o’clock, and a bright orange GMT hand provide clear legibility at a glance. Formex has also integrated a subtle date complication that comes off like a small seconds dial at first blush and remains unobtrusive while adding to the watch’s overall practicality.
The sector-style layout–with its mix of sunray brushing and pebbled texture–feels well-balanced and the colour scheme is harmonious.
The Stratos uses a sapphire crystal with anti-reflective (AR) coating on both sides. The result is excellent visibility in various lighting conditions, reducing glare while enhancing contrast and clarity. The lume is also well-applied to the hands, indices, and numerals, ensuring readability in low-light situations.
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Movement and GMT Functionality
At the heart of the Stratos UTC is the Swiss-made ETA 2892 automatic movement equipped with a true GMT complication, thanks to its Dubois-Dépraz custom module . Unlike a caller GMT where the 24-hour hand is independently adjustable, the Stratos allows for quick, one-hour jumps of the local hour hand via pushers on the left side of the case. This eliminates the need to manipulate the crown, making time zone adjustments significantly more convenient while maintaining the watch’s water resistance.
The movement also includes a quick-set date function, which is decoupled from the main crown, and the day/night indicator provides an additional layer of timekeeping clarity. This user-friendly approach to a true GMT makes the Stratos a standout in its category.
Strap and Wearability
While Formex offers a stainless-steel bracelet with a patented micro-adjustment system, our review model came on the leather strap with a deployant clasp. The leather strap feels like a natural pairing for the Stratos, complementing its rugged yet refined aesthetic. The clasp features Formex’s signature tool-free adjustment system, allowing for a customized fit on the fly.
On the wrist, the Stratos feels secure yet restrained. The combination of its lightweight build, well-balanced case design, and ergonomic lugs makes for a watch that disappears on the wrist, even during extended wear.
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Specs
| Case | 316L Stainless Steel 41mm Diameter 47mm Lug to Lug 20mm Lug width 11.8mm Thick Display Screw Down Case Back & Crown 24-Hour Bezel 100m Water Resistance |
| Dial & Crystal | Sapphire Crystal Sunray Sector Dial Applied Markers Customized Syringe Handset Small Seconds Super-LumiNova |
| Movement | ETA 2892 Regulated to +/- 7 sec/day Dubois-Dépraz Custom Module for Quick-set of Local Hour /w Pushers 21 Jewels 28 800vph 42-Hours Power Reserve |
| Strap | Leather Strap /w Deployant Clasp |
Formex Stratos UTC Automatic True Pilot
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Final Thoughts
Prior to the release of the Essence Ceramica, the Formex Stratos was the most expensive watch produced by Formex; however, I am always struck by how competitively they are priced given the specifications. The Formex Stratos UTC True Pilot Grey embodies the brand’s vision of a modern pilot’s watch—robust, highly functional, and thoughtfully designed. Its true GMT functionality, intuitive pusher system, and elevated finishing make it a standout option for those seeking a travel-ready timepiece with a distinct personality. Formex continues to impress with its ability to deliver high-spec watches at competitive prices, and the Stratos is exactly that. Whether on leather or the steel bracelet, it’s a timepiece that delivers both practicality and style in equal measure.
Pricing & Availability
The Formex Stratos UTC retails for $3990USD ($4990CAD). Please visit the website for more details.
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Brent Robillard is a writer, educator, craftsman, and watch enthusiast. He is the author of four novels. You can follow him on Instagram.
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This is my kind of watch.
It’s a great piece