The New Traveller-Oriented Fortis V-40 Vagabond GMT Collection

Fortis‘ motto, “Tool Watch. Redefined,” takes on fresh meaning with the introduction of the new Vagabond collection. With this release, the brand is redefining its approach and how we perceive Fortis, long known for adventure-inspiring timepieces. While its existing collections Novonaut, Flieger and Stratoliner cover aerospace and nautical (Marinemaster series) themes, the Vagabond line appears aimed at those with more grounded, Earth-based pursuits – travellers embracing the traditional journeys, free from extreme G-forces or decompression risks. Though the new Fortis V-40 Vagabond can keep accurate time high in the air or underwater, its refined aesthetic hints at a lifestyle of stress-free exploration with a touch of elegance. See if you agree.

The new Fortis V-40 Vagabond is presented in a square-shaped cushion case measuring 40mm across. It is made from grade 5 titanium and is predominantly brushed with a thin polished bezel. The lugs are short and curved for a comfortable fit of the titanium bracelet, attached with a screw pin for easy change, and the fluted screw-down crown (with the triple-gasket system) is large enough for easy handling. Water-resistance is also pretty solid, rated at 200 metres. 

The matte textured dial of the V-40 Vagabond offers a functional and highly legible design, with various details organized into circular segments. Along the outer edge, the printed minutes/seconds track surrounds a mix of polished applied numerals for the odd-numbered hours, a triangle marker at 12 o’clock, and stick indices for the remaining hours. The stick indices and triangle are filled with Super-LumiNova X1, as are the hour and minute hands, ensuring low-light visibility. Moving inward, a white gold 24-hour ring adds an extra layer of functionality. Note that the 12 is omitted to make room for a rectangular date window above the 6 o’clock index.

The overall monochromatic look of the dial (for two of the three editions) is subtly broken by the orange triangular tip of the short GMT hand, which indicates the second time zone on the shiny ring. Completing the design, the central running seconds hand has a needle shape that extends to the edge of the seconds track. At launch, Fortis offers three dial colours for the new model – the mentioned matte Stormy Grey, the darker shade of grey Urban Shadow and the Blue Dusk.

The new Fortis V-40 Vagabond is powered by the chronometer-certified calibre Werk 13, featuring an integrated GMT function and a convenient jumping hour mechanism, allowing the wearer to easily adjust local time and change the date both forward and backwards at any point in the day – as such, it’s a so-called traveller’s GMT. Developed and produced by Kenissi, the movement operates at 28,800 vibrations per hour and boasts a 70-hour power reserve. Through the tinted sapphire display caseback, you can view the industrially refined movement, with its rotor proudly displaying the embossed Fortis crown logo. In a playful twist, the caseback is inscribed with “jet lag resistant” alongside the water resistance rating.

The V-40 Vagabond GMT is fitted with a titanium three-link bracelet, secured by a safety folding buckle with a quick-adjustable extension for easy wear. While pricing for the “ultimate companion for the modern nomad” is yet to be confirmed, it’s expected to align with the rest of the brand’s offerings. This well-conceived and functional timepiece adds a refreshing originality to Fortis’ line-up and is certainly worth a try. 

For more details, please visit fortis-swiss.com.