Fortis Introduces Four Flieger Models Powered By The New Manufacture Werk 7

Fortis is a brand that is constantly on the move. In the last six months, we have seen new versions of the Novonaut N-42, a new model range with the Vagabond V-40 GMT, and even new movements. For its latest releases, Fortis introduces two new Flieger models with black cases in two sizes. But the biggest news is that all four watches are powered by the new Fortis manufacture Werk 7, which was developed with La Joux-Perret. I had a chance to gain some hands-on experience with all four variants.

It probably comes as no surprise that the Novonaut N-42 is my favorite Fortis watch. I have spent quite a bit of time with the different stainless steel and titanium variants, and they never fail to impress me. The modern version of the brand’s famous Cosmonauts Chronograph has taken a Fortis classic to great new heights. But for this latest release, we have to shift focus to the brand’s Flieger collection. It’s a series of modern pilot’s watches developed with the help of the Swiss Air Force. The result is a line of timepieces with superb readability and a clear focus on practicality. This time, the brand upped the standard for its Fliegers with the Werk 7. This modern movement marks the start of a new era for the Fortis Flieger collection.

The details of the new Fortis Flieger models

Let’s start by briefly explaining the specs of these watches. All four have a black DLC-coated stainless steel case. The two larger F-41 models measure 41mm in diameter, 12.5mm thick, and 52mm from lug to lug, while the smaller F-39 models come in at 39mm wide, 12.5mm thick, and 50mm long. All four watches feature a bidirectional 24-click DLC-coated bezel with a 12-hour scale in white to indicate another time zone.

Two of the four versions — one in each size — house matte black dials with white numerals and markings. Each dial features a black outer ring that holds the luminous Brix hour markers and minute track. Additionally, there are a few high-contrast details in the brand’s signature fluor orange. As you can see, all the models feature a date window at 3 o’clock displaying a black date disc with white printing.

Fortis also uses that configuration for its second pair of DLC Fliegers, which have moss-green dials. These dials feature the same black outer ring with the luminous hour markers and white printed minute track. Overall, the black models are properly stealthy, whereas the two green models have more of an army feel to them.

The new Fortis Werk 7 developed with La Joux-Perret

Inside the case of all four watches, you will find the brand’s new Werk 7, German for “Caliber 7.” This movement is a step up from the previous Sellita SW200-based UW-30 movement. Fortis teamed up with La Joux-Perret to develop the new Werk 7, which ups the power reserve to 70 hours.

On top of that, the new caliber offers variable-inertia regulation. This allows for small adjustments by moving small weights on the balance wheel rather than changing the length of the hairspring. Lastly, the new movement is super robust. This is the result of the double fixation of the balance and its oversized bridge.

This new movement is visible through the sapphire window in the stainless steel case back. The caliber has received a gunmetal finish and a customized rotor in addition to structural improvements for its robustness. Additionally, the brushed and blasted finish perfectly suits the watch’s utilitarian look.

Speaking of which, Fortis completes the two Mission Black models’ aesthetic with a black hybrid strap featuring a fabric upper and a rubber base. The straps on the Tactical Green models combine a brown-green fabric upper with a black base. Each of the four versions, regardless of size, costs €4,100, which is a significant increase from the previous Flieger offerings. However, the new caliber is also a significant technological advancement, which justifies the price increase.

Wearing the new Fortis Flieger F-39 and F-41

Once on the wrist, all four models prove to be comfortable daily wearers despite their significant lug-to-lug lengths. One thing that quickly stood out for me was that the 41mm versions have better overall proportions than the 39mm ones.

Visually, the 41mm models are more balanced, so I gravitated toward those. Despite the seemingly daunting 52mm lug-to-lug, the Flieger F-41 variants wear very well on my 18.5cm (7.3″) wrist. This is partly because the straps are super comfortable. They are sturdy enough to balance the watch on the wrist while providing great comfort and flexibility.

In great Fortis tradition, the watches are extremely well built. They feel super solid on the wrist, and everything is brilliantly engineered. A great example is the bezels. When you turn them, you can hear and feel clearly defined clicks.

That combination of audible and tactile feedback leaves a great impression every time. I have come to expect this from Fortis, but it is always impressive. There simply aren’t many brands, not even at the increased price point, that offer this kind of quality.

Picking a favorite Fortis Flieger model

After spending a couple of days with all four new Fliegers, I favored the 41mm F-41 models. But if you have smaller wrists, the 39mm F-39 versions are the ones to check out. When it comes to picking a favorite overall, I found I liked the F-41 Tactical Green version the best. Visually, I find it the most attractive and lively option.

But if you like dressing mostly (or all) in black, the Mission Black models with orange details are great options as well. It does sound a bit easy to make it a matter of style, despite these watches having been designed as tools.

Then again, let’s be honest: the overwhelming majority of these Fortis Flieger watches will end up being daily wearers for people who will never get in the cockpit of a fighter jet. In that context, then, the choice of a color is as simple as the one that fits your style better.

But don’t be fooled because all four models are more than capable pilot’s watches that, when put to the test, will undoubtedly perform up to the highest aviation standards. These four Fliegers will be produced in a run of 100 pieces each, making them limited editions that will quickly find their way to Fortis fans.

These four new watches are another step forward in Fortis’s never-ending journey of improvement. It’s something that I greatly respect, and I can’t wait to see what is next.

For more information on these watches, visit the official Fortis website.

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