Which is cheaper, the Fortis Flieger F-43 Bicompax or the Tissot Ballade?

At MSRP the Tissot Ballade is the cheaper of the two at $1,100, against $4,180 for the Fortis Flieger F-43 Bicompax — a $3,080 gap before any retailer discounting.

Which is bigger, the Fortis Flieger F-43 Bicompax or the Tissot Ballade?

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

Which has better water resistance, the Fortis Flieger F-43 Bicompax or the Tissot Ballade?

The Fortis Flieger F-43 Bicompax is rated to 200m versus 100m for the Tissot Ballade.

Which has a longer power reserve, the Fortis Flieger F-43 Bicompax or the Tissot Ballade?

The Tissot Ballade carries a 80-hour power reserve against 58 hours on the Fortis Flieger F-43 Bicompax.

What movement does the Fortis Flieger F-43 Bicompax run compared to the Tissot Ballade?

Both watches run automatic movements — the Fortis Flieger F-43 Bicompax uses the Sellita SW510 BH a and the Tissot Ballade uses the Powermatic 80.

Side by side

Fortis Flieger F-43 BicompaxvsTissot Ballade

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

Tissot Ballade

t1564081103300

MSRP $1,100

At a glance

14 of 29 specs differ

Diameter

Flieger F-43 Bicompax43mm

Ballade39mm

Power Reserve

Flieger F-43 Bicompax58h

Ballade80h

Water Resistance

Flieger F-43 Bicompax200m

Ballade100m

MSRP

Flieger F-43 Bicompax$4,180

Ballade$1,100

Full specifications

Case

6 specs

Crystal & Dial

4 specs

AR Coating

Inner

Yes

Dial Color

Original

Silver

Indices

Applied

Roman

Lume

None

Super-LumiNova ®

Movement

3 specs

Caliber

Sellita SW510 BH a

Powermatic 80

Power Reserve

58h

80h

Jewels

Pricing

1 specs

MSRP

$4,180

$1,100

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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

Tissot Ballade

Owners widely praise the Tissot Ballade for its excellent value, immaculate quality for the price, and attractive design, with many highlighting the mesmerizing dial and hobnail or fluted bezel. Reviewers and owners alike commend its comfortable 39mm proportions and slim case, noting the COSC-certified Powermatic 80 movement as a significant strength. Some owners find the included strap and clasp to be areas for potential improvement, and one owner noted disappointment with a quartz movement in a specific model. Overall, owners and reviewers consider the Tissot Ballade a strong value proposition, excelling in design and movement certification at its price point.

From video reviewers

The Tissot Ballade's unique, intricately cut ribbed bezel design adds depth and character to the case. The watch's stunning finishing is a notable strength, suggesting a high level of craftsmanship and attention to detail. A drawback is the somewhat lacking lume brightness, which may be a concern for those who plan to wear it in low-light conditions.

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