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Which one should I get?

  • Monta Noble

    Votes: 33 39%

  • Formex Reef

    Votes: 51 61%
  • Total voters
    84

Monta Noble vs Formex Reef COSC

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formex formex reef monta monta noble
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12K views 58 replies 38 participants last post by  thewatchidiot  
#1 · (Edited)
Finally saved up enough money in my watch fund to get something nice under $2000USD. I’m currently the owner of a grand seiko SBGP001 and an Oceanus T200, looking to expand my collection with a nice automatic watch.

I‘m now heavily debating between the monta noble and the formex reef cosc.
On one hand the reef has a COSC certified movement with a better power reserve and a diver would really diversify my collection.
On the other hand the noble appears to be better finished and has a much more timeless and classy look, and I would love a display case back on my first automatic. But I’m also worried the 38.5mm watch would look a bit small on my 7.25 inch wrist, and it just seems a bit redundant given my current collection.

If I’m getting a one watch collection I would have gone monta. But with my current collection I really am struggling.

Can owners of both brands give me some opinion? What do you like or not like about them? How does the finishing compare? Much appreciated.
 
#5 ·
Monta would be my choice, which one do you like the best though?
 
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#9 ·
Neither. I'd keep saving until I could up the budget to $2500 or so, then I'd look at Longines (Spirit, Heritage Tuxedo, Legend Diver, etc. can all be had for under $2,500) or I'd even look to Oris (Big Crown models start at just a hair under $2k and go upwards depending on case material; or a Divers Sixty Five can be had starting at $2k and up depending on strap/bracelet/case material). Perhaps any of those could even be found for less on the secondary market if you're willing to go that route. I just think you could open your options up and find something that better compliments your GS that way.
 
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#24 ·
they're both great watches. I wouldn't get a dive watch just to diversify if you won't enjoy wearing it, but as a person who leans toward divers, over half my watches, I would get the Formex.

though you don't need an alternative - this Hamilton is not COSC and a larger (46mm case/51.3 mm between lug ends, vs. 42/47 for the Formex), but it's a good, accurate 80 hour ETA movement and costs quite a bit less $$. I also like the uniqueness of the crown guard. though i don't anticipate any watch purchases until later in '23, I have been thinking about it.

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#28 ·
Formex in my book, a lot of advanced engineering in the case, bracelets and buckles. Two other Formex suggestions; The Reef GMT, a bit more $$$ but you get a COSC GMT movement and less 'toolish' bezel/insert.

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Also look at the Essence Leggera

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#33 ·
Have never owned Monta so can't comment there, but have been blown away by Formex and own a Reef.

The Reef is really something special. Only 11.4mm thick, and has a "stealth diver" motif imho. Contemporary, somewhat gutsy design language no doubt, yet surprisingly elegant and versatile---sleek.

The bracelet is out of this world, one of the most comfortable, free-flowing, and impressive I've worn sub $5k---and as far as pure ergonomics, to me anyway, the best at any price point I've worn. (Only the finishing would set apart higher price tiers, and maybe the tolerances on construction when you start getting above $5k---but not the actual feel)

The sunburst dial is a lot more subtle and complex than I'd expect sub $2k, and understand the spraying is done by hand. Also the light play on the markers, and on the polished accents, punch way above their weight.

If you'd like an exhibition case back, you might consider the Reef GMT which does have one, but not the original Reef.

Highest compliment I can pay the Reef is that while a current gen Omega SMP300 and Speedy 3861 are my daily wears, there are long stretches of time where the Reef gets more wrist time than either of them.

Formex will always have a place in my collection, they've done something unique and special. And their CEO Raphael really has his heart in it, he'll actually correspond and genuinely wants to know what enthusiasts think.

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G
#38 ·
These are both really good watches - I like them both. But if you prefer a dressier sport watch, than a Formex Essence 39 is a great choice over the Reef. Other than style choice, the main discriminating feature of the Monta is its better SW-300 movement over the SW-200 in the Formex. However, the Monta has a much better adjustable clasp. It's really too bad that you couldn't combine the two watches together (the Monta Noble and the Formex Essence 39) - that would be an awesome watch!
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#40 ·
Formex Essence links are smaller allowing a better fit and 1 step tool less adjustment in a small butterfly clasp. While the Monta has more adjustability in the clasp that comes at the expense of size and larger Oyster style links. I find the Formex system overall better and more stylish. YMMV

And when it comes to strap clasps, Formex might have the best in the world. Period.
 
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