Fake Fortis Fliegers?
Hey WatchCrunchFam,
I always see these 'Fortis' flieger models on ebay for super cheap, and always wondered, wtf is going on.
They always seem to be in immaculate condition, with automatic movements and bracelets.
All of the parts looks legit, but why are they always so cheap?
There's also always an abundance of 'NOS parts' available.
I'm just wondering if anyone has any information about this?
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Kieron TTT
YouTube watch reviewer 😃
Manchester UK
Member since
Last active: 3 weeks ago
16.51 cm
I’m m thinking these are Frankenstein watches. I own one as I liked the look of it but I could not find one example Fortis ever manufacturing these in the companies history. Mine is said to be from the 1980’s but after researching this I was not able to verify. I paid $169 and it’s worked well but the manure it’s a Frankenstein watch. I still enjoy it and wear it from time to time
I’m m thinking these are Frankenstein watches. I own one as I liked the look of it but I could not find one example Fortis ever manufacturing these in the companies history. Mine is said to be from the 1980’s but after researching this I was not able to verify. I paid $169 and it’s worked well but the manure it’s a Frankenstein watch. I still enjoy it and wear it from time to time
Yeah, that ones definitely a frankenwatch. Does look cool though!!!
Unless the seller is trustworthy, always presume a scam - especially when the price is too good. A fake (partial or full), something else entirely, or nothing.
Yes, frankenwatches, the caseback is also bad in details. the most famous faker is the Flieger with the blue dial. This version never produced by Fortis. Be aware!
They are often sold in "kit" form. Everything you need to make one - except the movement. I have one to build, I just haven't got round to it yet. I think it takes a Sellita movement if you want to spend the money, or a Seagull if you are on a budget.
They are often sold in "kit" form. Everything you need to make one - except the movement. I have one to build, I just haven't got round to it yet. I think it takes a Sellita movement if you want to spend the money, or a Seagull if you are on a budget.
Don't worry, mine won't be surfacing for sale on the Internet, pretending to be real. I'm building it for myself.
There are numerous fake Fortis watches out there. There are also a number of fake Hamiltons.
I found what seemed like a reasonable deal on Etsy for a couple of Fortis world timers...I specifically asked the seller whether he had authenticated the watches. He confirmed that they were authentic. When I received them and inspected them, it was pretty clear they were fakes...very good fakes...but fakes nonetheless.
You need to really do your homework as even budget priced watches are being faked these days.