Pre-owned Fortis watches

Founded in 1912 in Grenchen, Switzerland, by Walter Vogt, Fortis quickly established itself as a pioneer in mechanical watchmaking. In 1926, the brand made history by launching the first mass-produced automatic wristwatch: the Harwood. This innovative spirit, combined with an emphasis on durability and accuracy, became the hallmark of the brand. Despite the quartz crisis of the 1970s, Fortis remained committed to mechanical movements while developing professional-grade watches, especially for military personnel and pilots.

In the 1990s, Fortis took a decisive step by becoming the official supplier to the Russian space program ROSCOSMOS. The Official Cosmonauts models, tested in zero gravity aboard the Mir space station, were specifically designed to withstand the extreme conditions of space travel. This direction cemented Fortis' reputation as a brand synonymous with exploration. Collections like the Stratoliner, dedicated to high-altitude flights, and the iconic B-42, renowned among fans of rugged watches, further reinforced this positioning.

The Flieger series, introduced in 1987, represents another cornerstone of Fortis' identity. Inspired by aviation instruments, it stands out with exceptional readability, minimalist design, and functional efficiency. Widely adopted by pilots and military watch enthusiasts alike, these models underscore Fortis' deep connection to high-level aviation.

In 2017, after a challenging period, Fortis was revitalized thanks to the investment of Jupp Philipp. Under his leadership, Fortis returned to its roots, partnering with Kenissi to develop high-performance in-house movements, while reaffirming its image as an exceptional tool-watch brand. This revival came with a clear strategy: innovate without abandoning its heritage.

On the second-hand market, Fortis watches experience strong demand, particularly military or space-related chronographs. Their history, reliability, and association with significant explorations—both aerial and spatial—make them highly sought-after by collectors. Fortis occupies a distinctive position in watchmaking: an independent, authentic, and technical brand that bridges Swiss tradition and pioneering exploration.