Fortis

Founded in 1912 in Grenchen, Switzerland, by Walter Vogt, Fortis was built around a simple idea: producing robust, precise and genuinely functional mechanical watches. The brand distinguished itself early through innovation, notably by bringing one of the first automatic wristwatches into serial production in 1926.  Over the decades, Fortis has specialised in tool watches designed for aviation, exploration, space and demanding environments.  Within the marine universe, this philosophy is now embodied by the Marinemaster collection, conceived as a rugged adventure watch rather than a purely dress-oriented timepiece.  Fortis focuses on solid construction, strong legibility and materials suited to intensive use. The brand also maintains a strong culture of real-world testing, with its watches used in space missions as well as terrestrial and maritime expeditions.  In 2022, a Marinemaster notably accompanied the Helvetic Waves team during a transatlantic rowing crossing.  This approach strengthens Fortis’ credibility among enthusiasts of professional watches and instruments designed to operate beyond ordinary conditions.