Fortis Flieger F-39 Automatic review - Flieger for everyday missions

Tags: Review | Fortis | Classic | Aerial

20.11.2025 | 4 MIN

The Fortis brand has escaped my attention for a long time. I've heard about it and had a few glimpses of it on the wrists of visitors to various watch events - but I've never had a chance to really get to know the watches. It's only now - with the Fortis Flieger F-39 Automatic - that I've gotten a chance to take a proper closer look. And I was curious to see if it really lived up to its reputation as an honest "tool" watch...

A classic Flieger in a modern package

When I picked up the Fortis Flieger F-39 for the first time, I was immediately struck by the level of craftsmanship. At first glance, it is a very simple, almost austere watch - no shiny surfaces, no unnecessary decorations. And that's what gives it character. Every edge, every surface had a purpose.

As the name suggests, it is a so-called "flieger" - a watch for aviators. Traditionally, they have to meet several essential requirements: a matt dark dial for the best possible legibility, contrasting numerals and hands with luminescence, and also a clearly marked twelve o'clock, with the typical triangle.

Most pilot's watches tend to be quite large - usually over 44 mm, with historical models often being even larger. However, Fortis has compromised here and offered a smaller and much more practical 39mm iteration that feels balanced and comfortable. It doesn't get in the way on the hand and, thanks to its size, it fits most wrists.

Flieger for those who fly halfway around the world

On closer examination, what struck me most about the watch was the dual-time bezel. And I have to say, it's what makes the F-39 special to me. Unlike regular bezel with 60 or 120 positions, this one moves in half-hour increments - something I haven't seen in other models yet.

It's a detail that clearly shows the Fortis designers were thinking about practical applications. The bezel is also slightly raised, so it has a protective function - it protects the watch glass in case of an impact.

The watch glass is sapphire and Fortis deserves praise for its excellent double-sided anti-reflective coating, which really makes the dial stand out.

The dial is matte, with the central part having a fine vertical brushing. Around its perimeter, there is a slightly convex ring with Super-Luminova luminescent hour indices, and the same material is also found on the hands.

I must also praise the black date wheel (on the variants with black dial), which does not disturb the overall purity of the dial - only the number 13 is highlighted in red, because Fortis considers 13 to be its lucky number. Even new models are traditionally launched on the 13th of the month.

Another interesting feature is the so-called Synchroline at 12 o'clock, which is designed to help pilots accurately adjust the time between crews.

The steel that got a second chance

Because Fortis has long been committed to a philosophy of sustainability, the watch case is made from recycled steel. It's a sympathetic detail that shows the brand is also thinking about the impact of its production.

The watch case then boasts 200m water resistance, which is more than respectable for a pilot model. Fortis achieves it thanks, among other things, to the triple seal in the crown, which is typical of the brand.

Thanks to this, the F-39 need fear neither water nor dusty environments - just as one would expect from a true "tool" watch.

There’s also a beautiful detail on the caseback. Here, Fortis has placed the motif of spinning propeller blades and the inscription „Ohne Flieger wäre der Himmel nur Luft“ - that is, translated as "Without aviators, the sky would be nothing but air." All of this brings the whole watch to a symbolic close, reminding us of its origin and purpose: to be a tool for those who look down on the world.

So close to perfection - just a millimeter short

The watch itself comes on a metal bracelet or a calfskin leather strap, which caught me a little off guard at first glance.

The strap, attached to the case by solid screw-in bars (which I see as a plus in the end, given the durable nature of the watch), was actually quite thick and gave a very rough impression.

When put on, however, it surprised me in the best sense of the word. The material is surprisingly soft, pliable, very comfortable even when worn for long periods of time, and I got used to its "rough" look after a while. However, I see its 21mm lug width as a big minus, which greatly limits the choice of replacement straps and bracelets in the future. Why? Is it that hard to make a case that has a 20mm or 22mm pitch?

A proven engine under the hood

The watch is powered by the UW-30 calibre - but it probably won't surprise anyone that it's actually the old familiar Sellita SW200, based on the ETA 2824 architecture. It's a reliable and time-tested movement with a frequency of 28,800 beats per hour, a hacking function, a bi-directional winding rotor self-winding movement and a 38-hour power reserve. So Fortis sticks to the sure thing - a movement that works and can be easily serviced worldwide.

Fortis F-39 - Confidence on the ground and in the air

Overall, the Fortis Flieger F-39 Automatic strikes me as a watch with a clear identity and attention to detail. It's practical, durable and perfectly legible - just as you'd expect from a true aviation watch.

From the matt dial to the meticulously crafted bezel, every element here has a purpose, and Fortis confirms that it can still make honest "tool" watches that combine tradition, modernity, sustainability and everyday usability. If you're looking for a reliable partner with a pilot's spirit and reasonable dimensions, the F-39 won't disappoint.

Photo credits: official manufacturer images.

You might also be interested in: