Farer GMTvsFormex Reef GMT

The Farer GMT Automatic is praised for its vibrant, legible sea-green sunburst dial and well-proportioned 39.5mm, 10mm thin case. The Top Grade ETA 2893-2 movement offers hacking seconds and a 42-hour power reserve. Reviewers note the bronze crown, intended to develop patina, as a potentially unpopular design choice. Overall, reviewers consider the Farer GMT Automatic good value at its price point, highlighting the dial and case proportions as key strengths.

The Formex Reef GMT is widely praised for its unique porthole case shape, COSC-certified Sellita SW330-2 movement with good finishing, and comfortable quick-release bracelet with on-the-fly micro-adjustment. Reviewers note its robust construction, impressive specifications, and strong value proposition, with a slim 11.4mm profile accommodating 300m water resistance and an exhibition caseback. However, owners widely report the 53mm lug-to-lug span with male endlinks makes it too large for smaller wrists. Some find the bezel action stiff and potentially slippery, and a reviewer desired sharper finishing and edges, deeming the aesthetic too modernist. The GMT variant sacrifices a timing bezel unless swapped, and one owner notes sharp edges on the crown and crown guard. Overall, owners and reviewers highly rate the Formex Reef GMT for its exceptional value and well-executed features, particularly its bracelet system and COSC-certified movement.