If Fortis is known for anything, it's for their robust and functional watches, as well as their long-standing connection to aviation and space exploration. In this respect, one standout collection, created in 1987, is the Flieger. Designed as a true tool for pilots, this enduring collection was radically updated last year with the introduction of the 'redefined' Flieger. Don't look for vintage inspiration; in the new collection, performance, reliability, and functionality are key. Following the inaugural black models of 2020, the brand has enriched its collection with even more technically appealing editions - the new Fortis Flieger F-39 and F-41 Midnight Blue models with hours and date.
While the name 'Flieger' often brings to mind pilot watches inspired by the 1940s, that is not what Fortis aimed to create. Far from it. This new collection, presented last year, redefines the concept, bringing it into the 21st century while remaining true to its core idea. These are still proper tools designed for use and abuse, with functionality being the priority. They are purpose-driven watches with a specific mission. The collection comprises a chronograph, a GMT model, and a pair of models with date and time functions. All share the same overall design and functionality, aside from the complications. Initially launched with black dials, this widely acclaimed collection now includes a blue dial, first appearing on the Flieger F-39 and F-41, the simplest, more purpose-driven versions.
Putting the new dial aside, we return to the basics of the collection, where two different diameters are offered by the brand. A good point, the case can be ordered either in 39mm or 41mm to adapt to any morphology or taste. The case, made of matte recycled stainless steel, has an angular, blocky shape that leaves no doubt about its tool watch vocation. Robust and reliable, it even has a water resistance of 200m thanks to the screwed crown and case back, which is rare in pilot watches. The dial is protected by a sapphire crystal with a highly effective anti-reflective coating on both sides.
As you might have guessed from the name, the Fortis Flieger is a true pilot's watch. This is reflected in its features. First, the dial is framed by a bidirectional bezel with a 12-hour scale, which can serve as a timer or dual time indicator. The bezel is easy to operate thanks to its high-raised coin-shaped profile and has 24 clicks. But that's not all. The updated Fortis Flieger F-39 and F-41 (and all other watches in the collection) come with two unique functions. The first is called 'Synchroline.' It is also in orange and applied in the range from 55 to 05 seconds. Its purpose is to allow pilots to synchronize when flying in a squadron; with a range of +/-5 seconds, each pilot can adjust to their teammates when setting the watch. The second function is called 'BRIXTRACK' and concerns the hour markers. They are not applied in the classic way but are luminous bricks applied to the circular matte dial.
The novelty of this year is the dial color. Previously available only in black, the two models with hours and date can now be ordered dressed in Midnight Blue with a vertical matte pattern. The hour and minute hands are also updated: now they are in matte dark blue, with generous use of white Super-LumiNova at the center. All tracks and markers also remain white, providing excellent contrast day and night, and giving the watch a modern technical look. Finally, numerous orange accents are placed across the dial, including on the second hand, which is made using Berlac Fluor technology. The date is also framed in orange, and the 13th day of the month is also done in Berlac Fluor orange.
These new blue editions of the Fortis Flieger F-39 and F-41 are worn on an Indigo Aviator Strap made of grey-blue natural cowhide leather with olive tanning, obtained through environmentally friendly production, and fastened with a buckle made of recycled stainless steel. Additionally, the steel block bracelet used on the black models can be purchased as an accessory from the brand's online store (priced at 450 Swiss francs). Beneath the screwed and engraved massive steel case back lies the well-known, reliable automatic movement, the Fortis UW-30 caliber, based on the Sellita SW 200-1. It beats at a frequency of 4 Hz and maintains a power reserve of up to 38 hours.
AVAILABILITY AND PRICE
The new Fortis Flieger F-39 and F-41 Midnight Blue are now available for order in the online boutique. The price for both models is 1,950 Swiss francs.
For more detailed information or to place an order, visit www.fortis-swiss.com.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS – FORTIS FLIEGER F-39 AND F-41 MIDNIGHT BLUE
Case: 39mm or 41mm diameter – recycled stainless steel case, matte – bidirectional 12-hour GMT bezel (24 clicks) – screw-down crown – double A/R coated sapphire crystal on both sides – water resistance 200m
Dial: vertically matte blue (for F-41 and F-39) – sword-shaped hands in blue with Super-LumiNova X1 coating – luminous BRIXTRACK markers – orange SYNCHROLINE – orange stop-seconds hand Berlac Fluor
Movement: Fortis UW-30 caliber (base Sellita SW 200-1) – automatic – 26 jewels – power reserve 38h – 28,800 vibrations per hour – hours, minutes, seconds, and date
Strap: Grey-blue leather, natural cowhide leather with environmentally friendly olive tanning – stainless steel buckle
Stainless steel bracelet with adjustable Slide Clasp also available in the online store as an accessory.
References: F4220011 – 39mm, F4220013 – 41mm
Availability: Now available in the brand's online boutique
Price: 1,950 Swiss francs (for both diameters). Steel bracelet offered for CHF 450