Which is cheaper, the Fortis Flieger F-43 Bicompax or the Zelos Comet 39?

At MSRP the Zelos Comet 39 is the cheaper of the two at $2,499, against $4,180 for the Fortis Flieger F-43 Bicompax — a $1,681 gap before any retailer discounting.

Which is bigger, the Fortis Flieger F-43 Bicompax or the Zelos Comet 39?

The Fortis Flieger F-43 Bicompax wears larger at 43mm versus 39mm for the Zelos Comet 39 — a 4mm difference across the dial.

Which has better water resistance, the Fortis Flieger F-43 Bicompax or the Zelos Comet 39?

The Fortis Flieger F-43 Bicompax is rated to 200m versus 50m for the Zelos Comet 39.

Which has a longer power reserve, the Fortis Flieger F-43 Bicompax or the Zelos Comet 39?

The Fortis Flieger F-43 Bicompax carries a 58-hour power reserve against 40 hours on the Zelos Comet 39.

What movement does the Fortis Flieger F-43 Bicompax run compared to the Zelos Comet 39?

The Fortis Flieger F-43 Bicompax runs a automatic caliber (Sellita SW510 BH a), while the Zelos Comet 39 runs a manual (ETA/Peseux 7001).

Side by side

Fortis Flieger F-43 BicompaxvsZelos Comet 39

The numbers, the dial colors, the calibers — laid out so you can stop flipping between tabs.

Fortis Flieger F-43 Bicompax

F-43 Bicompax

MSRP $4,180

Zelos Comet 39

zelos-comet-39

MSRP $2,499

At a glance

14 of 29 specs differ

Diameter

Flieger F-43 Bicompax43mm

Comet 3939mm

Power Reserve

Flieger F-43 Bicompax58h

Comet 3940h

Water Resistance

Flieger F-43 Bicompax200m

Comet 3950m

MSRP

Flieger F-43 Bicompax$4,180

Comet 39$2,499

Full specifications

Case

7 specs

Crystal & Dial

2 specs

Crystal

Sapphire

Domed Sapphire

Dial Color

Original

Tantalum LE

Movement

4 specs

Caliber

Sellita SW510 BH a

ETA/Peseux 7001

Type

Automatic

Manual

Power Reserve

58h

40h

Jewels

Pricing

1 specs

MSRP

$4,180

$2,499

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What people say

Owners + reviewers, side by side

Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.

Fortis Flieger F-43 Bicompax

Owners widely praise the Fortis Original for its tool-watch aesthetic, legibility, and robust construction, with many noting excellent lume that lasts all night and precise day/date changes at midnight. The brushed stainless steel case is well-finished, and the 38mm size is considered comfortable and well-weighted despite being smaller than modern watches. Accuracy figures range from +2 seconds/day to +8 seconds/day, and some owners compare Fortis quality favorably to Omega. However, some users find the MSRP too high compared to brands like Sinn and Damasko, and one owner reported internal parts dislodging from a limited edition model. Concerns have also been raised about stripped lug screws on B-42 models and potential parts shortages due to past bankruptcy protection filings. Overall, owners rate the Fortis Original highly for its durable construction and tool-watch functionality at a competitive price point.

WatchUSeek·9

Zelos Comet 39

Owners widely praise the Zelos Comet 39 for its wearable 39mm size, thin profile under 10mm thanks to its manual-wind Sellita SW215 movement, and its captivating dial with a deep starburst effect. The winding action is described as a joy, and the watch is considered a stunner for its price, blending modern and vintage aesthetics. Some owners note frustration with Zelos's limited production runs leading to quick sell-outs. One owner found the logo childlike, while another experienced strap-rubbing issues with the short lugs, which were resolved with a Milanese bracelet. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the Zelos Comet 39 highly for its excellent value and striking dial design.

Reddit·6

Hodinkee

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