A Darker Edge for the M-44: Fortis Introduces New Marinemaster Variants

Presented in DLC Gravity Black and Black Resin, these latest releases amplify the watch’s commanding presence and everyday versatility.

Initially launched in 2021 with the smaller, less professional M-40 variant, the Fortis Marinemaster M-44 was included in the new collections that signified the brand's revitalisation, while simultaneously bearing a name of historical significance. The Marinemaster, particularly the robust and high-performance M-44 variants, transcends its role as a mere dive instrument; it is designed for exploration both on land and underwater, rather than being solely associated with aviation timepieces. Fortis unveils the inaugural Marinemaster featuring a stealthy, dark-themed design with DLC finish.

The designation Marinemaster dates back to the 1950s and has since been employed to signify the brand's exceptionally waterproof timepieces. Historically, the word has been associated with timepieces designed for aquatic environments, though not only for specialised dive watches. It may encompass features such as a chronograph or an alarm. The new Marinemaster collection, introduced in 2021, represented a significant evolution in this range, emphasising adventure and discovery both on land and underwater. Fortis envisioned a versatile watch capable of any activity in any location. However, the Marinemaster M-44 signifies a more serious development.

The Fortis Marinemaster M-44, introduced in 2022 in a variety of vibrant colours, has been and continues to be the highlight of the collection. A timepiece featuring a substantial casing, considerable protection, a water resistance of 500 meters, and a bidirectional gear bezel equipped with the Fortis Lock System, driven by a COSC-certified movement from Kenissi. Until date, all models were produced in uncoated recycled stainless steel; however, this year marks the introduction of the M-44 in the new DLC Gravity Black and DLC Black Resin editions.

Fortis

The overall design and appearance of the casing remain unchanged, retaining the characteristics of a robust, purpose-driven sports watch with significant diving capabilities. The M-44 features a casing with a diameter of 44mm, although it remains quite compact on the wrist with a length of 48mm from lug to lug. These watches possess water resistance up to 500 meters and, as is typical with Fortis, include various unique protective features. The M-44 includes a traditional screw-down crown at 3 o’clock and an extra crown at 10 o’clock, which serves as a simple locking mechanism to secure the bezel. It operates in conjunction with a bidirectional bezel. This year's primary innovation is the colour scheme, as the Marinemaster M-44 now features a black Dianoir DLC coating, a first for this line. The outcome is a darker casing that exhibits significant resistance, since the coating yields a surface hardness of 4,500 HV (Vickers), about 20 times tougher than standard stainless steel. A minor distinction between these two editions, consistent with the dial, is that the DLC Gravity Black incorporates uncoated crowns and lateral screws for strap attachment, whereas the DLC Black Resin utilises blackened counterparts.

Concerning the dials, both versions of the Marinemaster M-44 DLC feature the collection's signature black dial adorned with an embossed Fortis "O" design, encircled by a luminous ring and an inclined inner flange. The distinction between both lies in the coloured highlights; the DLC Gravity Black features silver-toned hardware, whereas the DLC Black Resin utilises warmer gold-hued hands and markers, complemented with beige Super-LumiNova, a combination previously observed in a classic steel model.

Enclosed within the robust steel caseback is the Calibre WERK 11, manufactured by Kenissi. Its foundation is shared with businesses like Tudor and TAG Heuer. A contemporary automatic movement, its accuracy has been certified as a chronometer by the COSC. It operates at a frequency of 4Hz, features a balance positioned beneath a transversal bridge, and offers a substantial power reserve of 70 hours. The Fortis Marinemaster M-44 DLC Gravity Black and DLC Black Resin, with an FKM rubber strap adorned with the Fortis “O” design, are introduced as part of the permanent collection. Each edition is priced at EUR 4,950. For further information, kindly visit fortis-swiss.com.