SOLD – Fortis Vintage Marinemaster Chronograph Ref. 8001 Valjoux 72

For sale is this highly collectible and beautifully preserved Fortis Marinemaster diver’s chronograph ref. 8001.

This early 1970s chronograph is more than just a watch, it is a utilitarian tool, afull package if you will, and an accessible one at that. Not only is it powered by a sophisticated Valjoux 72 calibre, it is also fitted with an exotic looking dial unlike most other pieces of the same vintage era.

MODEL / REFERENCE: Fortis Marinemaster chronograph ref. 8001.

DIAL+HANDS: The exotic matte black dial is the highlight of this watch that screams the 70s. Despite showing overall aging signs, there are very subtle blemishes to note. The black and white imprint is almost immaculately preserved. The three subdials with blue subrings have aged, taking a greyish color while remaining intact. The 30-minute counter is additionally divided into three blue areas. They’re perfectly placed at 3, 6 and 9 o’clock for timing events. There is also a precisely circumscribed tachymeter scale around the edge of the chapter ring. It’s very legible without busying the dial. The dial has loads of detail, but somehow comes off as clean. The white printed hour indexes are wide, missing their Tritium stripes at the center. The hour markers and handset have aged at the same rate and have the same color to them. The hour and minute hands have a beautiful blocky design and lume inlays, the central seconds hand is white too and, contrasting beautifully with the black dial hence the ease of legibility.

CASE: On the wrist, this Fortis looks great and fits perfectly, measuring a nicely sized 39mm in diameter and boasting 20mm in lug width. The case appears to be unpolished, preserving the razor sharp bevels of its long straight lugs. They’re simple yet wonderfully chamfered with nice matte lines on top which by the way, have a very reminiscent profile to the famed Heuer Autavia case. The case is still beautifully intact, with few small scratches and nicks throughout. It shows signs of use consistent with the age of the watch. The three body case is surmounted by a black rotating bezel, with a clearly marked 60-minute aluminum insert ring that shows signs of corrosion and scratches commensurate with an extensive use of this tool watch.

CASEBACK: The original stainless steel screw down caseback is in decent vintage condition, with the faded engravings of the Fortis logo and name at the very center. However, we can still see the model reference, material and water resistance engravings. Besides smaller surface scratches, there is a noticeable scratch across the caseback from a removal attempt at some point.

CRYSTAL: The original domed plexiglass crystal is in good condition. It will be polished before delivery.

CROWNS+PUSHERS: The crown is correct to the watch despite not bearing the brand’s signature. It is nicely sized and grooved for winding / time setting easily. The pump pushers operate as intended: Starting, stopping and resetting the chronograph. The top pusher works smoothly but appears to be longer than the bottom one, indicating a probable later replacement.

MOVEMENT: This timepiece relies on the renowned Valjoux 72 to power its chronograph. Famed for its dependability and accuracy, this movement is no stranger to the luminaries of the vintage watch world like Rolex and Heuer. The 17 jewel manually wound, column wheel calibre features a 60 s, 30min, 12h three register display. Cherry on top, the bridge is signed with the brand’s name. The movement is clean and has been serviced thus runs strongly and keeps good time. It winds, sets and the chronograph functions perfectly and resets crisply.

BRACELET: This vintage chronograph has been fitted with a nato strap that fits the bill quite well.

ACCESSORIES:Saffiano leather watch roll. This Fortis Marinemaster ref. 8001 with blue registers is a true gem and a perfect daily wearer thanks to its versatility and thoughtful details. From its bold case, to an exotic dial layout that lovers of manually wound chronographs have come to know and love. Cherry on top, the mother of all chronograph movements inside: The Valjoux 72.

This is a funky chronograph Made in small editions and therefore very collectable. A great looking watch and fun to wear!

WARRANTY: We guarantee the authenticity of the watch. We also provide a 6 months guarantee for the correct function of this vintage timepiece. All guarantees are subject to the General Terms and conditions. Please feel free to ask questions, we will be glad to answer. Virtual or face-to-face viewing is available by appointment.