Two years ago I met with Fortis at Baselworld for the first time. It was the time after ownership had just changed and a young team of highly spirited people led by Ampleforth-educated Maximilian Spitzy who is considered Fortis‘ changemaker had taken over to bring back Fortis to watchlovers and collectors alike. It was time for change. He reduced the model range from over 120 models to just under 50. He clearly structured the model lines into these four collections:
Cosmonautis Collection
Ever since their orbital baptism of fire aboard the space station MIR in 1994, FORTIS watches have been part of the standard equipment of all cosmonauts.
Aviatis Collection
Perfect legibility, saphire glass with antireflective coating on both sides and best pressure resistancy are the core elements of these models.
Terrestis Collection
Inspired by the elegant designs of the 1930s and 1940s the Terrestis Collection is an hommage to the early years of Fortis` pioneering spirit.
Aquatis Collection
The symbiosis of uncompromising functionality and award winning design can be found in the depths of the world`s seas.
The new leadership is embracing social media to build brand awareness and connect to the history of Fortis in space flight and aviation. And Fortis has a rich history which began in 1912. More about that in another blogpost.
The new Flieger Chronograph below is part of the Aviatis collection.
Flying is mankind’s biggest dream which became reality. And Fortis is supporting flying with this timepiece which possesses excellent readability and has the essential chronograph function for a pilot.
FORTIS has become the first choice for more than 60 flight squadrons – including the PC-7 Team of the Swiss Airforce, a famous aerobatics team, which is a true honor for Fortis and probing further that their watches are of excellent quality.
The new FORTIS Flieger Professional Chronograph (Pilot) reference the 705.21.11 is the worthy successor of the long-lasting model reference 597.11.11 FORTIS Flieger Classic Chronograph. Housed in a 43mm case you find a solid Valjoux 7750 chronograph movement which has proven for decades to be one of the most accurate and reliable chronograph movements.
The new crown on the new model is newly designed and is very grippy intending to mimic the FORTIS brand crown.
The orange chronograph seconds hand is delivering excellent readability and giving the face of the watch a wonderful colorful character. Collectors of vintage watches can go crazy over a red hand, or an orange hand, and here it really enhances the watch.
Citing the motto of Fortis, FORTIS has once again proven “Perfecting perfection”. It truly is possible to use history to write the future. And that is what Fortis is doing now. We believe that they are on the right road to success and connect to their successful past in the future.