RZE Fortitude GMT Nighthawk
The Ultimate Lightweight Travel Companion
RZE has been a brand that I had been keeping my eye on. They popped up on a random Google search some time ago, searching for something around “inexpensive luxury watches.” Once you get by all the 2nd hand seller ads, there was RZE. The website is inviting. Not having the catalog they do now, the brand and the way everything is laid out makes you stay, with the mind that what I am seeing is very cool, so there must be more. And there was. RZE’s Re-Verified opportunity – a place that not only feeds into RZE’s sustainability efforts, but also offers current RZE owners a place to trade in their current watch for new model they may have their eye on. It also serves as a resource for interested onlookers a chance to get into the RZE game at a reduced rate, but with the security that it is RZE selling it to them, not Bob on eBay (no offense to the Bobs of the world).
I watched and waited for the Fortitude to launch, updates to other models, and the launch of the Urbanist. Some nice collaborations with EDC creators spawned a compelling marketing video, and then recently RZE caught the eye of Carryology, with the Endeavor earning a place on their list of 12 Best Dive Watches under $500…it was time to revisit RZE.
Knowing that I would not be able to make up my mind, I made the commitment to use RZE’s Watch Finder. No matter the outcome, that is what I was rolling with. 30 seconds or less later, it gave me the Fortitude GMT Nighthawk. New to the RZE line-up, it was already at the top of my list.
For my order, I chose both the ULTRAHEX titanium bracelet and the HEXAFLEX rubber strap and the EDC Pouch. Both the bracelet and the strap are equipped with RZE’s quick-release functionality. The titanium bracelet boasts a series of hidden micro adjustments, making it incredibly easy to get the ideal fit.
Keeping with RZE’s sustainability efforts, you have the choice of either “standard” packaging that can be recycled, or their EDC pouch as the non-green choice. I would argue that the pouch is every bit of a green option as the traditional packaging. Sure, there may be more on the front end that goes into making the pouch, but given its usability and durability, from the time it reaches a user's hands to the time, if ever, it goes into a landfill, will be a lot longer. Plus, this sleek pouch is something that you will use. The exterior has one full panel of hook and loop, with the interior offering up plenty of drop-ins and elastic webbing to make it your own. Not sure why this would be a debate but, get the pouch and get the pouch with the 5th pocket optional knife. It comes in handy more than you think it will.
The Fortitude GMT Nighthawk is a distinctive timepiece that stands out in the micro-brand watch scene for its rugged build and modern aesthetics. Drawing from aviation-inspired design, the watch has a stealthy, all-black look that feels bold and versatile, fitting equally well in casual or professional settings. Made with a titanium case, it is exceptionally lightweight while staying durable, thanks to RZE’s proprietary UltraHex coating, which provides superior scratch resistance. This combination of strength and lightness makes it an appealing choice for those with active, outdoor-oriented lifestyles.
Inside, the Fortitude GMT Nighthawk is powered by the Miyota 9075 automatic GMT movement, known for its reliability and convenient "true GMT" functionality. This feature allows wearers to adjust the hour hand independently without affecting the minute and second hands, a benefit for frequent travelers. With a 40-hour power reserve, the Miyota 9075 is also practical for everyday wear, and its smooth 28,800 BPH operation provides a pleasing, fluid movement of the seconds hand.
Functionality is central to the Fortitude GMT Nighthawk. The UltraHex coating significantly enhances its scratch resistance, and the titanium construction adds both durability and comfort on the wrist. Rated to 200 meters of water resistance, the watch is suitable for swimming, snorkeling, and light diving, offering a high degree of versatility in active settings. Its lightweight feel, due to the titanium build, makes it comfortable for extended wear – pair this with the ULTRAHEX titanium bracelet and you barely notice it on your wrist. Which is a good thing. You find yourself checking to make sure it had not fallen off, only to sit there and stare at it for a minute.
The watch face prioritizes readability, featuring high-contrast indices and hands, as well as a coating of Super-LumiNova for clear visibility in low-light conditions. The orange GMT hand stands out against the dark dial, allowing quick differentiation from the other hands and adding a pop of color. A fixed 24-hour bezel complements the GMT hand, making it easy to track a second time zone, ideal for travel or those who need to coordinate across time zones.
Overall, the Fortitude GMT Nighthawk is competitively priced for the quality and features it offers. Its titanium construction, GMT movement, and scratch-resistant coating are typically found on more expensive models, making this watch a terrific value. While the fixed 24-hour bezel may limit the watch’s versatility compared to rotating dive bezels, its focus on durability, comfort, and style makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable, everyday GMT watch with a unique, modern look.
The RZE Fortitude GMT Nighthawk shines as a durable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing possibility. It delivers well on wearability and practicality, offering strong value for those who appreciate thoughtful design and a travel-friendly GMT complication. For anyone with an adventurous lifestyle or simply looking for a resilient, sleek watch, this model is a standout.
Do not sleep on these guys. To see for yourself, visit www.rzewatches.com
As Always
Stay Sketchy
-CJ