Fortis Novonaut

Fortis Novonaut N-42: up to the stars

Founded in 1912 in the Swiss town of Grenchen, Maison Fortis can be mentioned in the same breath as big names in the watch industry such as Longines and is characterized above all by modern tool watches that do not let their wearers down even under the toughest conditions. In addition to classics such as the Aeromaster or the Pilot Classic from the Sky collection, the watches in the Space series are also very popular. This series also includes the Fortis Novonaut N-42, a chronograph that can look back on a long history and is in the tradition of the Official Cosmonauts Chronograph, better known as the legendary space watch. The Fortis brand has been closely associated with space travel since 1962 – from 1994 to 2003, the Official Cosmonauts Chronograph accompanied astronauts on their missions to the MIR and ISS space stations and proved that the timepiece did not lose any of its precision and functionality even in space. Are you also interested in an N-42, for example in the Legacy Edition or the First Edition? As a certified specialist dealer for Fortis watches, we will be happy to assist you with the purchase of a chronograph and advise you in detail on the functions, the movement or the special features of the case on request.

The successor to the iconic B-42

With the N-42, Fortis presents the successor to the iconic B-42 and deliberately focuses on the design elements that illustrate the close relationship between the chronographs. For example, the N-42 is characterized by a matte ceramic bezel and a matte dial. Unlike the original Cosmonauts chronograph, in which the Fortis UW-50 movement sets the pace, the N-42 has a WERK 17 at its heart. The diameter remains the same, as both watches are easy to read and operate thanks to the 42 mm case. And Fortis has not changed the countdown bezel with 60-minute graduation on the new chronograph model. Did you know? The name B-42 was not chosen at random, but stands for “observation watch with a diameter of 42 mm”.

What sets the Fortis Novonaut N-42 apart

Since its first launch in 1994, Fortis has continuously developed the legendary space watch and now presents the latest generation of the Official Cosmonaut in the form of the Novonaut. What makes the chronograph so special? High-precision manufacturing, the use of selected materials and a movement that is second to none. Find out more about the special features of the Novonaut and, if you wish, let our experienced experts advise you personally on features such as the Sirius bezel, the ultra-engraving or the Lumicast numerals.

Fortis relies on high-quality materials

To withstand even the conditions in space, you need high-quality materials that defy all adversities. Fortis knows this too and uses recycled stainless steel, among other materials, to manufacture the Novonaut. A consciously sustainable decision that nevertheless makes no compromises in terms of quality and aesthetics. The Maison also uses titanium, a tried and tested material in the aerospace industry, in the manufacture of its robust tool watches. The sapphire crystal used is also virtually indestructible and, alongside moissanite and diamond, is one of the hardest materials in the world. Thanks to the special anti-reflective coating, the glass also allows the dial of the Tool Watches to be read perfectly at all times.

The heart of the Fortis Novonaut N-41- the WERK 17

Unlike its predecessor, the Novonaut relies on the space-age WERK 17, an automatic manufacture caliber with a power reserve of 60 hours and improved reliability thanks to the switching wheel chronograph. Two tests that Fortis put the movement through proved that the WERK 17 can withstand all conditions. In 2021, the Maison joined forces with movement manufacturer La Joux-Perret and the Swedish Space Corporation to attach 13 movements to a gondola and send them up into the air in a stratospheric balloon. After a flight time of 1.5 hours, the movements landed back on earth undamaged. In 2022, the manufacturer also tested the movements during a rocket campaign and recorded the results in a documentary on the Fortis YouTube channel.

Functions and technical specs of the new Fortis

It’s not just the movement and the materials used for the case, bezel and strap that make the Novonaut so impressive – the technical features are also impressive and make the tool watch a companion for every adventure. For example, Fortis uses hands and indices with Super-LumiNova to ensure that the dial is legible during the day, at night and in UV light. The Maison also equips the Novonaut with a triple seal crown system that features specially developed FKM seals. The Novonaut can even be worn underwater, as the water resistance of the timepiece is 200 meters.

Versions of the Fortis Novonaut N-42

To meet all requirements, Fortis presents the Novonaut in different versions. We will also be happy to advise you personally on the special features of each variant – regardless of whether you are interested in a First Edition or a Limited Edition of the iconic watch.

Fortis Novonaut "First Edition"

The “First Edition” is a limited edition of the Novonaut, of which only 100 were produced. The bezel and dial of this New Watch are black. The block bracelet gives the watch a sporty, elegant character.

Fortis Novonaut "Cobald Blue Edition"

If you like it more colorful, you should take a closer look at the Cobald Blue Edition. This New Watch is dominated by the color blue. You also have the choice between two straps – a block bracelet or a hybrid strap in a matching color.

Fortis Novonaut "Legacy Edition"

In keeping with the tradition of its predecessor, the Legacy Edition is again presented in a matt black color. With this 42 mm Tool Watch, you also have the choice between the Block Bracelet and the Hybrid Strap.

Amadee-24 - the Mars Edition

The Amadee-24 is a special version of the Novonaut that was developed together with the Austrian Space Forum, an organization that aims to enable manned journeys to Mars. The Swiss Maison equipped the researchers with the timepiece in 2018 for experiments taking place on Earth. The standard version and the Amadee-24 are almost identical and only differ in details. One characteristic feature of the Tool Watch, for example, is the small second at 9, which represents the different red-orange tones of the sunrises and sunsets on Mars and Earth.

Fortis - a Swiss Maison with a long tradition

Maison Fortis can look back on a long history. It all began in 1912, when Walter Vogt opened a watch factory in the Swiss town of Grenchen. Thanks to its great success, he was able to expand his workshops as early as 1917 and made his mark on the watchmaking world in 1926 with the first series production of automatic watches. He took this step together with the inventor of the first automatic movement, John Harwood. Further milestones followed, for example in 1940 when the manufacturer was one of the first to launch a waterproof wristwatch. Iconic models such as the Marinemaster and the Pilot were to follow, laying the foundations for the Maison’s global success today.

Buy the Novonaut - from a certified specialist dealer

Are you interested in a First Edition or a Legacy Edition? Would you like to find out more about the news that the Maison announces at industry events such as the Geneva Watch Days? Or do you have specific questions about the case of the timepieces? Make an appointment at our branch in Oldenburg and let our knowledgeable experts advise you personally. We will be happy to assist you with the purchase of your new dream watch and answer all your questions about the case, bracelet, movement, etc. Not near Oldenburg? Then simply contact us by email, phone or WhatsApp or visit our store and buy your desired timepiece securely and conveniently online.