When Watches Look to the Stars: Fortis Novonaut and Formex Essence Ceramica

Watches and space are more closely connected than they might seem at first glance. Precision, durability, and reliability are qualities that matter both in everyday wear and during journeys beyond our planet. And it is precisely space that is the theme connecting two Swiss brands whose names begin with the same letter: Fortis and Formex.

While Fortis has long-standing experience with the space environment and bases its Novonaut collection on the legacy of technical watches tested under extreme conditions, Formex is taking a slightly different path to the stars. Its new Essence Ceramica Dark Matter Redshift model features a material sourced from space, modern ceramics, and a distinctive sporty character.

Fortis Novonaut Halo: When Light Becomes Part of the Dial

Each of these watches thus tells its own story. Fortis focuses on functionality, maximum readability, and technical durability. Formex, on the other hand, combines cosmic inspiration with modern materials, watchmaking precision, and a design that clearly draws on motorsports. The result is two distinct perspectives on how space can influence the design of contemporary mechanical watches.

For Fortis, space is more than just an attractive theme for marketing materials. The manufacturer has long been building on its expertise in watches designed for demanding conditions, and the Novonaut collection continues this philosophy. The new generation of the Novonaut N-42 TR features a design element that catches the eye even before we look at its movement: a dial made of luminescent material.

The Novonaut Halo model is built around the contrast between light and dark. In daylight, it captivates with its easy-to-read chronograph and distinctive sub-dials, while in twilight and at night, its character changes dramatically. The dial is not merely a dark surface accented by luminous hour markers. It is based on Lumicast X1, a material derived from Super-LumiNova X1, which makes virtually the entire surface of the dial a light source. The luminescence is complemented by a Sirius ceramic bezel featuring the same technology.

This is a significant difference from standard sports watches, where light is typically provided primarily by the hands, hour markers, and, in some cases, dots on the bezel. With this model, Fortis places readability at the very heart of the design. Luminescence is not merely an effect intended to catch the eye in a photo taken in the dark, but a fundamental element of the entire concept.

Three versions of Halo: black, green, or blue?

Fortis offers the Novonaut Halo in three color variations, which share the same technical foundation but have distinct appearances. All versions feature the same basic design and are powered by Fortis’s in-house Werk 17 TR movement.

The choice, therefore, is not a matter of different functions, but primarily a matter of personal taste. The black version has a more striking and straightforward look, the blue adds greater visual depth to the watch, and the green is the boldest choice, bringing a less common pop of color to the Novonaut line.

Werk 17 TR: A Chronograph Designed for Demanding Conditions

The most important innovations, however, are found inside the case. The Fortis Novonaut N-42 TR is powered by the brand’s in-house automatic caliber, the Werk 17 TR, which builds on the brand’s previous development of chronograph movements tested under extreme conditions. It is a mechanical self-winding movement featuring a column-wheel-controlled chronograph, as well as a day-of-the-week and date display. The power reserve is 70 hours, meaning the watch can run for nearly three days after being set aside without needing to be wound again.

Also of interest are the design changes aimed at improving running stability. A freely mounted flywheel with weight-based regulation allows for more precise adjustment of its moment of inertia. The flywheel’s two-point mounting, in turn, is intended to increase resistance to vibrations and shocks. It is therefore not just a matter of increasing the power reserve, but an effort to improve the overall stability of the movement in demanding environments. Fortis states that the development of this series builds on testing of the previous caliber in the stratosphere and during a rocket mission in collaboration with the Swedish Space Corporation. The Novonaut’s space-themed story is thus based not only on the dial’s appearance but also on the technical development of the movement.

A sturdy design—just the way we like it

The Novonaut Halo is not a petite chronograph designed to be inconspicuous. The case, made of recycled stainless steel, has a diameter of 42 mm, a lug-to-lug length of 51 mm, and a height of 15 mm. On the wrist, it’s a striking sports watch whose proportions reflect the robust design of the entire collection. The bidirectional rotating Sirius ceramic bezel with luminescent markings is complemented by a screw-down crown with a triple seal. The sapphire crystal features an anti-reflective coating on both sides, and the transparent case back, made of tinted sapphire, is adorned with a rocket motif. Water resistance reaches 200 m, which expands its versatility beyond everyday wear.

The strap is designed as a hybrid: the top side features a durable textile layer, while the underside is made of specially developed FKM rubber. It thus combines the look of technical fabric with the practicality and comfort of a rubber strap. The screw-in attachment system allows the strap to be replaced, and the manufacturer also includes a reversible screwdriver with the watch.

The Novonaut Halo is, above all, a timepiece for those who want more from a sports chronograph than just an attractive dial. It combines striking luminescence, high water resistance, and a technically sophisticated movement. Its space-inspired design is reflected in both its appearance and construction.

Fortis Novonaut N-42 TR Halo Black F2040021

145 800 €

The Swiss Fortis Novonaut N-42 TR Halo Black F2040021 watch unmistakably embodies Fortis’s distinctive space-inspired design. Perfect readability, robustness, and durability are a given. You’ll find this watch useful not only on a journey into space but also for everyday wear. It is the latest successor to the

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Parameters

• dimensions: 42 x 15 x 51 mm
• Movement: Werk 17 TR automatic
• Power reserve: 70 hours
• glass: sapphire with anti-reflective coating on both sides
• Water resistance: 200 m

Formex Essence Ceramica Dark Matter Redshift: A Piece of the Universe on Your Wrist

While Fortis translates the cosmos into a functional sports chronograph, Formex offers a different interpretation. The Essence Ceramica Dark Matter Redshift model combines modern ceramics, mechanical precision, and actual material from space. The result is a sports watch that appears subtly dark at first glance but reveals a host of interesting details upon closer inspection.

The dial deserves the most attention. It is not merely textured metal or a decorative imitation of a cosmic surface. It is made from a genuine Muonionalusta meteorite that fell to Earth from space. Its distinctive crystalline structure formed as the iron and nickel cooled very slowly. After machining and a special surface treatment, the dial takes on a dark anthracite to nearly black appearance.

Each piece of material has its own unique texture, so the pattern on each dial is different. Formex accentuates this with a black gold electroplated finish and complements it with red details. These details evoke the brand’s focus on sports and racing while also referencing the name “Redshift.” In astronomy, the term “redshift” refers to the shift of light toward longer, redder wavelengths, which can occur, for example, with objects moving away from the observer.

Ceramics Instead of Steel

The second key advantage of this model is the material used for the case and bracelet. The entire construction is made of zirconia-based ceramic, which is known for its high scratch resistance. Unlike steel, it better retains a surface free of minor scratches during normal use. The case has a predominantly matte, sandblasted finish. Selected edges, on the other hand, are polished with a diamond tool, creating a contrast between the technical, dark surface and the sharper reflections. The ceramic bracelet follows the shape of the case and reinforces the impression of a compact whole.

But Formex didn’t stop at just the design and materials. The construction also includes a patented suspension system called the Case Suspension System. Spring elements are positioned between the case components to help absorb shocks and enhance comfort while wearing the case. This solution stems from the brand’s technical approach, which has long drawn inspiration from the world of motorsports.

Movement and accuracy: an important detail worth checking

The watch is powered by the new Sellita SW200-2 Power+ (Chronometer Grade) self-winding mechanical movement, which is COSC-certified. Compared to the previous generation, it features a redesigned construction that has increased the power reserve from 41 to 65 hours without reducing the frequency. The movement thus continues to operate at a frequency of 28,800 half-vibrations per hour (4 Hz), which contributes to high accuracy and stability.

Of course, the watch features crown winding, a hacking function that stops the seconds hand when setting the time, and a date window at the 6 o’clock position. Formex thus prioritizes precision as well as the quality of its materials.

Practical details that make a difference

The case has a diameter of 41 mm, a height of 11.2 mm, and a lug-to-lug distance of 46.2 mm. Compared to the Fortis, it features a more compact and significantly thinner design, which should look more understated even under a sleeve. It is water-resistant to 100 m, so the watch is not just a fashion accessory but can also handle everyday water activities.

Sapphire crystal is featured on both the front and the case back, offering a view of the movement. The dial is complemented by applied hour markers with Super-LumiNova BGW9 luminescence and a date window at the 6 o’clock position. Its beveled window echoes the distinctive details of the Essence collection.

An interesting innovation is the ceramic bracelet clasp with micro-adjustment. Its length can be adjusted without tools over a range of more than 5 mm, in four increments of 1.25 mm. This is useful, for example, when the wrist circumference changes throughout the day or when the temperature changes. Formex presents this system as the first micro-adjustment solution integrated directly into an all-ceramic clasp.

A limited edition for those looking for something special

The Formex Essence Ceramica Dark Matter Redshift is to be produced in limited annual runs of 100 pieces. According to the official website, the first series is numbered from 001 to 100, and shipping is scheduled for late November 2026. The model is offered exclusively with an all-ceramic bracelet; additional straps can be purchased separately.

Dark Matter Redshift is thus aimed at those who want to combine an unusual dial material with modern manufacturing technologies. The meteorite gives each piece a unique character, the ceramic ensures high scratch resistance, and the integrated micro-adjustment mechanism demonstrates that Formex also pays attention to everyday comfort.

Formex Essence Ceramica COSC Dark Matter RedShift 0336.4.6208.411

102 660 €

The Formex Essence Ceramica COSC Dark Matter RedShift 0336.4.6208.411 represents a bolder, more colorful take on modern, sporty-elegant watches, with an emphasis on premium materials and precise craftsmanship. At first glance, they captivate with…

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Specifications

• dimensions: 41 x 11.2 x 46.2 mm
• Movement: Sellita SW200-2 Power+ COSC automatic
• Power reserve: 65 hours
• glass: sapphire with anti-reflective coating
• Water resistance: 100 m

Two brands, one universe, two different philosophies

The Fortis Novonaut Halo and the Formex Essence Ceramica Dark Matter Redshift share not only the first part of their brand names, but above all a commitment to connecting watchmaking with an environment that places extraordinary demands on technology.

Fortis prioritizes functionality. Its chronograph features high water resistance, a robust case, an in-house movement, and a dial that literally comes to life in the dark. Here, space is part of the brand’s long-standing technical narrative and is reflected in both the design and character of the watch.

Formex, on the other hand, demonstrates that a space-themed design doesn’t have to be just a tool for extreme conditions. Its new product features a material that was actually created in space, combining it with modern ceramics, a shock-absorbing case, and a sophisticated micro-regulation system. Space is a tangible element of the design, while its sporty character also draws on motorsports.

Which ones are more interesting? It depends on what you expect from a watch. If you’re drawn to a technical chronograph with striking luminescence and an in-house movement, Fortis has a very strong case. If you prefer a more compact watch, an unconventional dial material, and a sophisticated ceramic design, Formex offers an original alternative.

Whichever path you choose, both of these new releases prove that cosmic inspiration in watchmaking doesn’t have to stop at a black dial and a few stars on the case. Sometimes it manifests in the movement itself; other times, in the material that has traveled all the way from the depths of space to your wrist.