Fortis Watches

The history of the brand is an illustrious one which makes used Fortis watches particularly desirable and collectible. The first key milestone came in 1926 when Fortis patented the Harwood Automatic. This was the result of Walter Vogt teaming up with the inventor of the automatic wristwatch, John Harwood.

The popular Fortis Harwood Automatic was the world’s first self-winding wristwatch and it was unveiled at Baselworld. In 1937, the company's 25th anniversary was marked in style as the brand released its first chronograph models. These included the Fortis Rolls and another John Harwood creation, The Autorist. This model was notable as the movement of the strap was used to power the watch. The 1940s was also a period of great innovation from Fortis as the brand released the Fortissimo, which were some of the world’s first waterproof wristwatches.

But it will always be Fortis’ link with the Russian Space Programme which makes second hand Fortis watches so appealing. Models such as the Fortis B-42 Marinemaster, Official Cosmonauts are sought after items. The Marinemaster is PVD Titanium coated and features a carbon fibre dial. The Fortis link to the Space Programmes began in 1962 with the introduction of the Spacematic automatic – the first Fortis timepiece that was created with a view to holding in extreme conditions and temperatures. The watch was tested by members of the US space mission.

Other used Fortis watches to look out for include the Flieger automatic collection. The Flieger Chronograph was awarded the accolade of European Aviation Watch of the Year.