Fortis has consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation and durability. Founded in 1912 by Walter Vogt in Grenchen, Switzerland,
Fortis quickly established itself as a pioneer in the industry. One of their earliest achievements was the production of the world's first automatic wristwatch in collaboration with John Harwood in 1926, a groundbreaking innovation that revolutionized the way people interacted with time. This spirit of innovation has been a driving force behind the brand's philosophy, leading them to create watches that are not only precise and reliable but also capable of withstanding extreme conditions. This long standing excellence has brought us to the future of the brand's watchmaking prowess.
Fortis has a strong connection to aviation and space exploration. In 1994, the brand became the official supplier of watches to the Russian Federal Space Agency, Roscosmos. Fortis watches have since been worn by cosmonauts on numerous space missions, including missions to the Mir space station and the International Space Station. This partnership highlights the brand's commitment to creating watches that can perform flawlessly in the most demanding environments, far beyond the typical conditions experienced on Earth. The brand takes its name after the Latin word "Fortis" meaning Strong.
Courtesy of Fortis
The Novonaut N-42 Titanium Legacy Edition is a direct reflection of Fortis's dedication to toughness and technical precision. This chronograph is constructed from lightweight yet incredibly robust titanium, a material known for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio. The 42mm case diameter provides a substantial presence on the wrist without feeling cumbersome, while the 15mm thickness conveys a sense of solidity and durability. The titanium case back features ultra-engraving, adding a unique visual element to the watch. These watches go through all sorts of extensive testing that helps them earn their ratings.
The matte black dial of the Novonaut N-42 serves as a perfect backdrop for the applied Lumicast®X1 numerals. These numerals, along with the Superluminova®X1 coating on the hands, ensure exceptional legibility in low-light conditions. The use of 3N gold plating on the hour, minute, sweep second, and counter hands adds a touch of warmth and contrast to the dial, enhancing its visual appeal. The 3N gold plating really helps with legibility. The combination of black, gold, and bright luminescence creates a harmonious and functional design.
At the heart of the Novonaut N-42 beats the space-tested Werk 17 manufacture caliber. This automatic movement is a column-wheel chronograph, a feature typically found in high-end chronographs that offers a smoother and more precise operation of the chronograph functions. With a 60-hour power reserve, the watch can be left unworn for over two days and still maintain accurate timekeeping. The Werk 17 is performance-certified, ensuring its reliability and precision under extreme conditions. This certification speaks to the watch's ability to withstand the rigors of space travel, making it a trustworthy companion for any adventure.
Courtesy of Fortis
The watch features a screw-down crown with a triple gasket system, contributing to its impressive 200-meter water resistance. This level of water resistance makes the Novonaut N-42 suitable for a variety of water activities, from swimming to diving. The quickset pushers allow for easy adjustment of the chronograph functions, while the performance FKM gaskets ensure a tight seal against water and dust. The watch's durability is not limited to space.
The sapphire crystal, with anti-reflective coating on both sides, provides superior scratch resistance and enhances the clarity of the dial. This double-sided coating minimizes glare, making it easy to read the time in various lighting conditions. The thoughtful application of anti-reflective treatment is a detail that watch enthusiasts appreciate, as it improves both the functionality and aesthetics of the timepiece.
The Novonaut N-42 Titanium Legacy Edition is fitted with a block bracelet made of titanium, matching the case material. This bracelet is not only strong and lightweight but also features a slide clasp with an integrated micro-adjustment system. This allows the wearer to fine-tune the bracelet's fit for optimal comfort, even over a flight suit or wetsuit. The screw pin system used for mounting the bracelet ensures a secure connection to the case. The Block Bracelet is a great metal option and provides excellent comfort.
Courtesy of Fortis
The Fortis Novonaut N-42 Titanium Legacy Edition pays homage to its predecessors while embracing modern materials and technology. The use of titanium for both the case and bracelet results in a watch that is both incredibly strong and surprisingly light. This makes the watch comfortable to wear for extended periods, whether on Earth or in the challenging environment of space.
The Novonaut N-42 is more than just a visually appealing watch; it's a testament to Fortis's commitment to functionality. The matte black ceramic bezel, with its Super-Luminova®X1 markings, is not only scratch-resistant but also provides excellent legibility in low-light conditions. This feature is particularly useful for astronauts and pilots who often operate in dimly lit environments.
The overall design of the Novonaut N-42 is both purposeful and refined. The combination of matte black surfaces, gold-plated hands, and luminous accents creates a watch that is easy to read and visually striking. The attention to detail, from the ultra-engraving on the case back to the micro-adjustment system on the bracelet, demonstrates Fortis's dedication to creating a watch that is as practical as it is aesthetically pleasing.
Courtesy of Fortis
The supplied packaging, known as the Alpha Box, includes a 5-year warranty, a performance certificate, and a user manual. Additionally, Fortis provides a reversible screwdriver for changing the bracelet or strap and a mirror tool for adjusting the bracelet length. This comprehensive package ensures that owners have everything they need to maintain and enjoy their watch for years to come. It's always nice having the tools you need to adjust a bracelet.
The Novonaut N-42 Titanium Legacy Edition represents a continuation of Fortis's legacy of creating robust and reliable timepieces for professionals and adventurers. The watch's design, materials, and movement all reflect a commitment to performance and durability. It's a watch that can withstand the rigors of space travel, extreme environments, and everyday wear.
The space-tested Werk 17 movement is a significant aspect of the Novonaut N-42's appeal. This caliber is not just a reliable timekeeper; it's a testament to Fortis's engineering prowess and its commitment to pushing the boundaries of watchmaking. The column-wheel chronograph mechanism, in particular, is a hallmark of high-end watchmaking, offering a superior level of precision and feel compared to traditional chronograph movements.
Courtesy of Fortis
The attention to detail in the Novonaut N-42 extends to its smallest components. The performance FKM gaskets, for example, are designed to withstand extreme temperatures and pressures, ensuring that the watch remains sealed and protected in even the most challenging conditions. These small but significant details demonstrate Fortis's commitment to creating a watch that is truly built to last.
The Fortis Novonaut N-42 Titanium Legacy Edition, with the reference number F2040017, is priced at 5,360.00 USD. This price excludes local taxes but includes duties. The Novonaut N-42 is a robust, well-made timepiece from Fortis.
Case: 42mm Diameter. Titanium. 200m Water Resistance. Titanium Case Back with Ultra-Engraving. 51mm Lug to Lug. 15mm Height. 88gr Watch Head Weight. Screw-Down Crown with Triple Gasket System. Quickset Pushers. Performance FKM Gaskets. Sapphire Crystal with Anti-Reflective Coating on Both Sides.
Movement: Space-Tested Automatic Manufacture Calibre Werk 17. Column Wheel Chronograph. Day-Date Complication. 60 Hour Power Reserve. Chronometer Regulation.
Dial: Matte Black. Applied Lumicast®X1 Numerals. Superluminova®X1 with Blue Glow. 3N Gold Plated Hour, Minute, and Sweep Second Hand with Superluminova®X1. 3N Gold Plated Counter Hands with Superluminova®X1.
Strap: Block Bracelet. Titanium Material. Titanium Slide Clasp with Integrated Microadjustment-System. Screw Pin System Mounting.
Price: 5,360.00 USD (Local Taxes Excluded, Duties Included)
Reference Number: F2040017
Notes: Tested in space. Features a ceramic bezel with Super-Luminova®X1. Supplied with Alpha Box, 5-Year Warranty, Performance Certificate, User Manual, Reversible Screwdriver, and Mirror Tool.