Take a look at our newest merchandise
Fortis is a model that’s continuously on the transfer. Within the final six months, we’ve got seen new variations of the Novonaut N-42, a brand new mannequin vary with the Vagabond V-40 GMT, and even new actions. For its newest releases, Fortis introduces two new Flieger fashions with black instances in two sizes. However the greatest information is that each one 4 watches are powered by the brand new Fortis manufacture Werk 7, which was developed with La Joux-Perret. I had an opportunity to realize some hands-on expertise with all 4 variants.
It most likely comes as no shock that the Novonaut N-42 is my favourite Fortis watch. I’ve spent fairly a little bit of time with the totally different chrome steel and titanium variants, and so they by no means fail to impress me. The fashionable model of the model’s well-known Cosmonauts Chronograph has taken a Fortis basic to nice new heights. However for this newest launch, we’ve got to shift focus to the model’s Flieger assortment. It’s a collection of recent pilot’s watches developed with the assistance of the Swiss Air Drive. The result’s a line of timepieces with excellent readability and a transparent give attention to practicality. This time, the model upped the usual for its Fliegers with the Werk 7. This contemporary motion marks the beginning of a brand new period for the Fortis Flieger assortment.
The small print of the brand new Fortis Flieger fashions
Let’s begin by briefly explaining the specs of those watches. All 4 have a black DLC-coated chrome steel case. The 2 bigger F-41 fashions measure 41mm in diameter, 12.5mm thick, and 52mm from lug to lug, whereas the smaller F-39 fashions are available in at 39mm large, 12.5mm thick, and 50mm lengthy. All 4 watches function a bidirectional 24-click DLC-coated bezel with a 12-hour scale in white to point one other time zone.
Two of the 4 variations — one in every dimension — home matte black dials with white numerals and markings. Every dial encompasses a black outer ring that holds the luminous Brix hour markers and minute monitor. Moreover, there are a couple of high-contrast particulars within the model’s signature fluor orange. As you’ll be able to see, all of the fashions function a date window at 3 o’clock displaying a black date disc with white printing.
Fortis additionally makes use of that configuration for its second pair of DLC Fliegers, which have moss-green dials. These dials function the identical black outer ring with the luminous hour markers and white printed minute monitor. Total, the black fashions are correctly stealthy, whereas the 2 inexperienced fashions have extra of a military really feel to them.
The brand new Fortis Werk 7 developed with La Joux-Perret
Contained in the case of all 4 watches, you’ll discover the model’s new Werk 7, German for “Caliber 7.” This motion is a step up from the earlier Sellita SW200-based UW-30 motion. Fortis teamed up with La Joux-Perret to develop the brand new Werk 7, which ups the ability reserve to 70 hours.
On prime of that, the brand new caliber provides variable-inertia regulation. This enables for small changes by transferring small weights on the steadiness wheel relatively than altering the size of the hairspring. Lastly, the brand new motion is tremendous sturdy. That is the results of the double fixation of the steadiness and its outsized bridge.
This new motion is seen by way of the sapphire window within the chrome steel case again. The caliber has obtained a gunmetal end and a personalized rotor along with structural enhancements for its robustness. Moreover, the brushed and blasted end completely fits the watch’s utilitarian look.
Talking of which, Fortis completes the 2 Mission Black fashions’ aesthetic with a black hybrid strap that includes a material higher and a rubber base. The straps on the Tactical Inexperienced fashions mix a brown-green cloth higher with a black base. Every of the 4 variations, no matter dimension, prices €4,100, which is a big enhance from the earlier Flieger choices. Nevertheless, the brand new caliber can be a big technological development, which justifies the worth enhance.
Sporting the brand new Fortis Flieger F-39 and F-41
As soon as on the wrist, all 4 fashions show to be comfy each day wearers regardless of their important lug-to-lug lengths. One factor that shortly stood out for me was that the 41mm variations have higher total proportions than the 39mm ones.
Visually, the 41mm fashions are extra balanced, so I gravitated towards these. Regardless of the seemingly daunting 52mm lug-to-lug, the Flieger F-41 variants put on very effectively on my 18.5cm (7.3″) wrist. That is partly as a result of the straps are tremendous comfy. They’re sturdy sufficient to steadiness the watch on the wrist whereas offering nice consolation and suppleness.
In nice Fortis custom, the watches are extraordinarily effectively constructed. They really feel tremendous strong on the wrist, and all the pieces is brilliantly engineered. A terrific instance is the bezels. If you flip them, you’ll be able to hear and really feel clearly outlined clicks.
That mixture of audible and tactile suggestions leaves an important impression each time. I’ve come to anticipate this from Fortis, however it’s all the time spectacular. There merely aren’t many manufacturers, not even on the elevated worth level, that provide this type of high quality.
Choosing a favourite Fortis Flieger mannequin
After spending a few days with all 4 new Fliegers, I favored the 41mm F-41 fashions. However if in case you have smaller wrists, the 39mm F-39 variations are those to take a look at. In terms of selecting a favourite total, I discovered I preferred the F-41 Tactical Inexperienced model the perfect. Visually, I discover it probably the most engaging and vigorous possibility.
However when you like dressing largely (or all) in black, the Mission Black fashions with orange particulars are nice choices as effectively. It does sound a bit simple to make it a matter of favor, regardless of these watches having been designed as instruments.
Then once more, let’s be sincere: the overwhelming majority of those Fortis Flieger watches will find yourself being each day wearers for individuals who won’t ever get within the cockpit of a fighter jet. In that context, then, the selection of a coloration is so simple as the one that matches your type higher.
However don’t be fooled as a result of all 4 fashions are greater than succesful pilot’s watches that, when put to the check, will undoubtedly carry out as much as the very best aviation requirements. These 4 Fliegers might be produced in a run of 100 items every, making them restricted editions that may shortly discover their technique to Fortis followers.
These 4 new watches are one other step ahead in Fortis’s unending journey of enchancment. It’s one thing that I significantly respect, and I can’t wait to see what’s subsequent.
For extra info on these watches, go to the official Fortis web site.
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