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Timepieces for Pilots, Engineers and Rocketeers
On the Frontiers of Watchmaking for 100 Years

Fortis WatchesFew watch companies are able to claim a full century of uninterrupted progress and innovation. Even fewer companies can say their watches are offered as standard equipment to astronauts. There’s only one company that can lay claim to inventing the first self-winding mechanical watch, and that company is Fortis Swiss Watches.

Fortis Watches celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2012, however, reflecting for too long on a century-gone-by might be unjust to a company so focused on the century at hand. Fortis, after all, recently surpassed 100,000 orbits of the earth taking part in manned space missions that began in 1994. This incredible fact is an exclamation point on how a small Swiss company from Grenchen went from local watchmaker to official supplier of interplanetary travelers.

Strength of Vision

Walter Vogt, Founder of the Fortis Watch CompanyThe evolution of Fortis began with the vision of its founder, Walter Vogt, whose first stroke of strategic shrewdness was locating his factory opposite the Grenchen train station, knowing full well it represented the lifeline of the modern economy. There he began commercial watch production in 1912. One-hundred years later, Fortis still resides at its original address.

Vogt renamed the company from Vogt & Git to Fortis in 1913. The word fortis means strong in Latin reflecting what Vogt understood would be required to operate a successful watch company — strength of foresight, strength to endure, and the strength to remain innovative yet affordable.

The World’s First Automatic Watch

John HarwoodVogt was a futurist and although wristwatches were gaining popularity in the early part of the 20th century, and business was brisk, Vogt was on the lookout for something truly special, something on which Fortis could hang its proverbial hat. The day Vogt was waiting for came in 1922 when he met English watchmaker and inventor John Harwood.

Harwood was also searching. He was looking for a Swiss watch company to support his idea of creating a self-winding wristwatch. Vogt embraced Harwood’s imagination and recognized in it an opportunity to move Fortis forward. In 1926, Fortis presented the legendary Harwood Automatic to an international audience at Baselworld, and so it began.

Harwood Prototype
Front View
Harwood Prototype
Back View
Harwood Prototypes on
Blueprint Background
Harwood Prototype - Front View

Harwood Prototype - Back View Harwood Prototypes on Blueprint Background

Innovation upon Innovation

Fortis solidified its reputation as a leader in technical innovation and producer of fine watches over the next several decades. It began manufacturing chronographs in 1937 and marketed novelties such as the Rolls and another Harwood invention, the Autorist, which utilized the movement of the strap to power the watch. Fortis introduced the first waterproof Swiss watches to the world in 1943 with their popular Fortissimo models, and during the quartz watch boom of the 1970s Fortis retooled its shop to meet the new demands through the introduction of its customizable Flipper model — an international hit.

Flying High in the 1980s

While Fortis would not set the first of its two altitude records until 1995 when Fortis chronographs were on the pilots’ wrists aboard a MiG-25PU that climbed to 100,000 feet, the ’80s were heady years for Fortis during which the brand soared. Fortis introduced its B-42 Flieger series and a new interpretation of decades-old pilot watches was born. Watches such as the current Flieger Automatic Chronograph are still among the most popular and recognizable in the Fortis hangars today. Models from the current Pilot Professional collection including the Day Date Automatic and B-42 Chronograph also offer exceptional quality at reasonable costs.

Advent of the Space Age

Fortis first appeared on the space scene in the early ’60s, when the durable Fortis Spacematic was chosen by astronauts in the U.S. Space Program to wear during training. In 1994 the first Fortis watch was worn in space. Chosen by Russia’s Star City Training Center, the Fortis Official Cosmonauts Chronograph became part of the official equipment issued to its astronauts. In 1997, the German Aerospace Centre selected Fortis chronographs for the German-Russian MIR 97 space mission.

One year later, Fortis patented the world’s first automatic chronograph alarm watch, inspired by the demands of the space specialists at Star City and realized by Swiss watchmaking prodigy Paul Gerber.

As part of its 2012 centennial celebrations, Fortis introduced its masterful F-43 Flieger Chronograph Alarm GMT Chronometer C.O.S.C. with dual power reserve, limited to 100 pieces worldwide. Not only is the watch the first of its kind in terms of complications, its Fortis proprietary movement represents a shift toward in-house production of more and more vital components.

The limited edition B-47 Mysterious Planets was also introduced at Baselworld 2012. The jump hour complication mixes high horology with the celestial theme with which Fortis is so widely associated.

Fortis Aviatis

Fortis continues to blaze the trail as a leader in the development and design of pilot watches. From its enduring F-43 Flieger to the chronographs worn by Russian MiG pilots when they broke the altitude record in the 1990s, Fortis remains synonymous with advanced aeronautics.

Fortis Aviatis Watch Collection - 635.10.91

In 2012 the brand introduced the Daybreaker – the world’s first and only automatic watch with an alarm, chronograph and GMT. And this year Fortis launched the Aeromaster Dawn and Dusk models – fresh interpretations of a decades-old design. Aviatis watches are legible and robust, with state-of-the-art automatic movements capable of withstanding the rigors of high-pressure environments. Today more than 60 flight squadrons worldwide choose Fortis Aviatis watches. Pilots trust them, and so should you.

Fortis Cosmonautis

Space was just another frontier for Fortis to conquer – and it did – starting in the 1960s. In the ’90s Fortis watches found a permanent place on the wrists of space travelers. Since then, Fortis Official Cosmonauts watches have made 100,000 plus orbits of the earth aboard the space station MIR.

Fortis Cosmonautis Watch Collection - 638.28.13

The crown jewel in the collection is the Official Cosmonauts Chronograph, having proven itself time and time again far above the earth’s atmosphere and here on earth, where its outstanding functionality and resilient, solid frame prove valuable in any conditions. The Fortis Cosmonautis collection continues to write itself into the record books, and into the heart and minds of astronauts and enthusiasts everywhere.

Fortis Aquatis

Before soaring into the worlds of flight and space travel, Fortis dominated the sea. It began with the release of the Fortissimo in 1943 – the first water-resistant watch. Other brands followed suit and water resistance quickly became an important and practical aspect of watch design.

Fortis Aquatis Watch Collection - 671.15.45

The most famous Fortis Aquatis watch is the Marinemaster, which originally appeared in the 1940s. Today, the revamped and reinforced Marinemaster series is the centerpiece of the Aquatis collection. These highly legible and durable sport watches are water resistant to 660 feet and feature unidirectional turning bezels. They also come in several color combinations, proving that tool watches can be both durable and stylish.

Fortis Terrestis

In space, in the sky and at sea, Fortis makes watches for people who are serious about life’s adventures. In 2015 Fortis added a fourth pillar – land – with the introduction of its new Terrestis collection. The look of these watches is inspired by Fortis watch designs of the 1930s and ’40s – designs that reveal the brand’s heritage in the most graceful way.

Fortis Terrestis Watch Collection - 19Fortis

But Terrestis watches aren’t merely nostalgic; models such as the Tycoon, Hedonist and 19Fortis prove that functionality, state-of-the-art mechanics and elegance need not be mutually exclusive. Terrestis watches are sophisticated, symmetrical and embrace watchmaking artistry with the inclusion of gold cases, patterned leathers and traditional decorations – because even an explorer needs a fine dress watch.

Edge of Imagination

The next frontier for Fortis may be the limits of imagination. Under the direction of Fortis Swiss Watches Director Max Peter, the brand continues to foster a true collaborative spirit, partnering with progressive companies such as Volkswagen to design the award-winning Spaceleader Chronograph and with artists such as Rolf Sachs, who created the 2012 limited edition Frisson watch in the Art Edition Collection. Limited to 999 pieces, the crystal on the Frisson appears frosted until it comes in contact with moisture and becomes clear.

The latest art watch from Fortis, known as the 2pi, is also the result of a successful partnership with Rolf Sachs. With a fascinating dial that is reminiscent of something you would see on a white board in math class, the 2pi by Rolf Sachs is every math lover’s dream. If you’re equally as passionate about math as you are about horology, this timepiece has your name on it.

Fortis watches have traveled a long way. The 100-year-old, family-owned company has done it with an ever-forward view to the future. Now, more than ever, Fortis has global appeal for collectors, enthusiasts and astronauts alike. Find a Fortis dealer near you and discover where Fortis can take you.

Gevril Group Agent for Fortis Watches

Gevril GroupGevril Group is an agent for Fortis Watches and the a Fortis watch maintenance and repair service center. Contact Miriam Tress, Fortis Brand Manager, by email or by calling 845-425-9882.

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Fortis Watch Articles and Collections

Fortis Aquatis Diver Watch Collection
Fortis Aviatis Watch Collection
Fortis Cosmonautis Watch Collection
Fortis Terrestis Watch Collection

Fortis 19Fortis Watch Collection
Fortis Aeromaster “Dawn” and “Dusk” Watch Collection
Fortis B-42 Flieger Automatic Watch Collection
Fortis B-42 Flieger Big Day Date Limited Edition Watch Collection
Fortis B-42 Flieger Black Cockpit GMT Watch Collection
Fortis B-42 Diver Watch Collection
Fortis B-42 Marinemaster Watch Collection
Fortis B-42 Pilot Professional Chronograph Watch Collection
Fortis B-42 Stratoliner Chronograph Watch Collection
Fortis B-47 Calculator Watch Collection
Fortis B-47 Mysterious Planets Limited Edition Watch Collection
Fortis Blue Horizon Limited Edition Watch Collection
Fortis Daybreaker Watch Collection
Fortis F-43 Jumping Hours Watch Collection
Fortis F-43 Recon Watch Collection
Fortis Flieger Cockpit Watch Collection
Fortis Hedonist Watch Collection
Fortis Marinemaster Watch Collection
Fortis Mattern Art Edition Watch Collection
Fortis Monolith Watch Collection
Fortis Official Cosmonauts Chronograph Watch Collection
Fortis Official Cosmonauts GMT Watch Collection
Fortis Orchestra Watch Collection
Fortis PC-7 Team Watch Collection
Fortis Spacematic Bilingual Watch Collection
Fortis Spaceleader Chronograph Watch Collection
Fortis Spacematic Classic Watch Collection
Fortis Spacematic Pilot Professional Watch Collection
Fortis Square Chronograph Men’s Watch Collection
Fortis Tycoon Watch Collection

Fortis 595.10.31 WI Edition Winner Automatic Watch
Fortis 595.11.82 Si 29 Unisex Limited Edition “Frisson” Art Watch by Rolf Sachs
Fortis 595.22.41 L.01 Men’s Pilot Professional Day Date Watch
Fortis 597.11.11 L.01 Men’s Flieger Automatic Chronograph
Fortis 597.11.11 L08 Men’s Fleiger Automatic Chronograph Aviator Watch
Fortis 597.20.71.M Flieger Automatic Stainless Steel Chronograph
Fortis 597.20.92 M Flieger Chronograph
Fortis 621.10.12 M Lady Flieger Watch
Fortis 623.10.41 L.01 Spacematic Limited Edition Watch
Fortis 623.10.42 N.11 Spacematic Day/Date Watch
Fortis 623.10.51 SI.01 Spacematic Black-Red Day/Date Watch
Fortis 623.10.52 M Spacematic White-Red Day/Date Watch
Fortis 624.22.11 M Spacematic GMT Pilot Watch
Fortis 635.10.11 L.08 Men’s B-42 Pilot Professional Black Dial Chronograph Aviator Watch
Fortis 635.10.11.M B-42 Men’s Pilot Professional Black Dial Chronograph Aviator Watch
Fortis 638.28.13 L.13 B-42 Black Mars 500 Chronograph
Fortis 645.10.11 L.01 B-42 Men’s Pilot Professional Day/Date Black Dial Watch
Fortis 647.10.11 M Men’s B-42 Official Cosmonauts Day/Date Aeronautic Black Dial Watch
Fortis 647.27.11 M B-42 Official Cosmonauts Titan Day/Date Watch
Fortis 647.28.71 L.01 B-42 Marinemaster Black Automatic Date Watch
Fortis 647.28.81 K Men’s Limited Edition 2012 B-42 Black Black Automatic Day Date Watch
Fortis 655.18.12 Men’s Nocturnal Watch
Fortis 656.18.81.K B-42 Flieger Automatic Black Dial Chronograph
Fortis 657.18.11 L Men’s 01 B-42 Flieger Black Chronograph Alarm 2nd in Chrono Award 2010
Fortis 659.27.92 Andora Emotions Art Chronograph Available in Limited Quantity
Fortis 659.27.92 Limited Art Edition Andora Emotions Chronograph Watch
Fortis 660.27.11 M B-42 Titanium Official Cosmonauts Alarm Chronograph
Fortis 2012 661.20.31 K Men’s Spaceleader Limited Edition Chronograph Watch by VolkswagenDesign
Fortis 665.13.19 L.01 Men’s B-42 Stratoliner 100th Anniversary Limited Edition Black Dial Chronograph
Fortis 670.10.41 KE B-42 Men’s Marinemaster Limited Edition Army Emblem Day/Date Black Dial Watch
Fortis 671.10.41 K Men’s B-42 Marinemaster Automatic Chronograph Watch
Fortis 671.24.14 K Men’s B-42 Marinemaster Chronograph Yellow Watch
Fortis 674.20.15 Si05 Men’s 100th Anniversary B-47 Worldtimer Limited Edition Rotating Dial Watch
Fortis 675.18.81 K Men’s B-47 100th Anniversary Limited Edition 2012 Big Black Day/Date Watch
Fortis 675.18.81 K Men’s B-47 New Limited Edition 2012 Big Black Day/Date Luxury Swiss Watch
Fortis 700.10.81 L.01 F-43 Flieger Big Day Date Watch
Fortis 701.10.81.K F-43 Flieger Limited Edition Chronograph
Fortis 703.20.92 LC05 Men’s F-43 Flieger Limited Edition Chronograph Alarm GMT
Fortis 710.10.37 M Men’s F-43 Jumping Hour Watch
Fortis 800.20.80 L.01 Men’s Marinemaster Vintage Chronograph Watch
Fortis 800.20.85 L.01 Marinemaster Limited Edition Vintage Watch
Fortis 100th Anniversary Marinemaster Chronograph Retro Edition
Fortis 2π Watch by Rolf Sachs

Bad Break for Josh Hurley and the Fortis Watch Team at Mid Ohio
Colors of Spring/Summer 2015 Men’s Fashion and Watches
Enthusiastic Las Vegas Buyers Applaud Gevril Group’s Luxury and Fashion Watch Marketing Concept
Fashion and Watch Color Trends for Fall 2015
Father’s Day 2014: Give Dad the Gift of Time
Fortis 100 Years Book
Fortis — 100 Years of Variety and Quality
Fortis 18K Gold Timepieces from the New Terrestis Collection
Fortis 328th Tactical Airlift Squadron Watch
Fortis Aeromaster Basel 2016 Preview
Fortis Announces Zero-G Space Art Contest Winner
Fortis B-47 Big Black Watch Wins Good Design Award
Fortis Basel 2015 Preview
Fortis Celebrates 50 Years Since Russian Cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin Became the First Human in Space
Fortis Classic Cosmonauts Chronograph Launched in Basel 2016
Fortis Climbs to New Heights With Fred North
Fortis Hungarian Air Force Squadron Watches
Fortis in Basel 2015 “Face the New”
Fortis Presents DLR Limited Edition 2011 Calendar to Gevril Group
Fortis Private Label Squadron Watch Program Update
Fortis Private Label Squadron Watches
Fortis Private Label Watch Business Expands to North America
Fortis Receives Congratulations From Space
Fortis Space Watches
Fortis Spacematic Limited Edition 2012 Day/Date Automatic Luxury Swiss Watches
Fortis Sponsors Swiss Air Force PC-7 Aerobatics Team
Fortis Squadron Watches of the 321 Lechfeld Tigers
Fortis USMC Aerial Refueler Transport 352 Squadron Watches
Fortis VP-40 “Laging Handa” Patron Squadron Forty Watch
Fortis Watches 1912-2012 Retrospective
Fortis Watches 2011 Basel Collage
Fortis Watches Advertised on London Taxi Cabs
Fortis Watches at the Dorint Hotel Basel March 8-12, 2012
Fortis Watches Continue to Amaze at Couture Show
Fortis Watches in Basel
Fortis Watches in Space Since 1994
Fortis Watches Invitation to Basel 2013
Fortis Watches Supporting Josh Hurley at Homestead Miami Grand Prix
Fortis Zero-G Space Art Contest
From Grenchen into Space – 100 Years of Fortis
Gevril Group Official U.S., Canada and Caribbean Fortis Watch Repair Marks 15 Years of Service
Harrison Ford Chooses the Fortis Official Cosmonauts Chronograph Watch for Ender’s Game
Joe and Shemar Celebrate at TCA Press Tour Party
Joe Mantegna Catches Criminals with Fortis
Josh Hurley Looking to Repeat 2009 Win at Barber Motorsports Park
Josh Hurley to Debut New Fortis Watches Audi S4 at Mid Ohio
Josh Hurley to Pilot Fortis Watches MkVI Gti World Challenge Debut at Petit Le Mans Road Atlanta
Participants Declare First Watch Fair on Facebook an Unqualified Success
ShopHQ Introduces Exciting New Way to Buy Luxury Timepieces
Russian Space Agency Roscomos Marks 50 Years Since Yuri Gagarin Become First Human in Space
Swiss Watches and Space Technology
Take a Ride with Josh Hurley Courtesy of Fortis Watches
The Fortis Squadron Watch Program
The Rolf Sachs and Fortis Watch Collaboration
Tough Break in the Homestead Miami Grand Prix for Josh Hurley
Watch Journal Showcases Julien Bigen’s Fortis and Rolex

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