As the -enormous length of the- name of the new model explicitly states, the new limited-edition Fortis F-43 Flieger Chronograph Alarm GMT (Ref. 703.20.92 LC05) is literally overstuffed with features, including not only the usual chronograph and second time zone, but also a nice mechanical alarm module!
Although Fortis has already presented a number of (quite expensive) models featuring alarms and a second time zone function, this is the very first Fortis watch that sports all three useful complications.
In fact, in their official press release, the company claims that the new Fortis F-43 Flieger Chronograph Alarm GMT is the world’s first model that combines “mechanical GMT, alarm, [and] chronometer with two separate power reserves.”
According to Fortis, this new Swiss-army-knife-of-a-watch is powered by their fresh caliber F2012 automatic movement. The mechanism is based on the ETA Valjoux 7750 blank caliber and sports an extra module that increases the number of spring barrels from one to two.
The first barrel is located on the mainplate and powers the time-measuring functions (including the chronograph.) The second one is installed on the add-on module and provides energy for the alarm function.
Accordingly, there are two separate power reserve indicators: the one between 4 and 5 o’clock indicates power left for the movement, and the other between 7 and 8 hours displays that of the alarm module.
Like many other species of its kind, this model features a busy, even somewhat cluttered dial layout. There is a UTC / GMT indicator at 12 o’clock, which is accompanied by a 30-minute chronograph counter. The day/night indicator at 3 hours that shares its rectangular aperture with a simple date display is balanced with small seconds sub-dial at 9 o’clock.
Finally, the 12-hour chronograph totalizer sits nicely between the two power reserve gauges. Well, I guess it will not take an average user long to get comfortable with this kind of display configuration.
Since the watch features a lot of different functions, it also has at least five control elements on its polished stainless steel case.
There are two standard chronograph push-pieces at 2 and 4 o’clock and an alarm on/off pusher at 8 hours. The extra crown at 10 hours is here to properly set the second time zone indicator, which is perfectly visible at 12 o’clock in a wide arc-shaped cutout.
As you may have already guessed, the arrowhead-shaped hand is an alarm indicator.
Like most “aviators” from Fortis, the new F-43 is not particularly small.
It comes in an oversized steel body 43 millimeters in diameter and features two pairs of horns that, too, look massive and give the device even more presence.
What impresses the most about the new model is its price: the Swiss brand plans to sell it at a stunning $21,000.
Only 100 pieces will be ever produced.
See also: Oris RAID 2011 Alarm Edition (Ref. 908 7607 4094)
Photos: Fortis
Fortis F-43 Flieger Chronograph Alarm GMT specification
Price: $21,000 (MSRP)
Movement: Automatic, Fortis caliber F2012 (based on ETA Valjoux 7750,) two spring barrels, chronometer, certified by COSC, Swiss Made
Number of jewels: 39
Movement frequency: 28,800 vph
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, chronograph, date, day/night, alarm, GMT/UTC
Power reserve: 50 hours
Case: Stainless steel
Shape: Round
Size: 43.00 mm
Dial: Black
Numerals: Arabic
Hour markers: Luminous
Hands: Luminous
Water resistance: 50 meters
Strap: Blue leather strap
Crystal: Sapphire, antireflective
Back: Sapphire