DLC. What It Is. Why We Use It.
Discover why Fortis uses Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) coating: ultra-hard, low-reflection, and built for real-world endurance. Learn how DLC transforms our toughest tool watches.
In the world of Fortis, every detail has a purpose. And when it comes to the outer shell, only one material lives up to the mission:
Diamond-Like Carbon — DLC.
This isn’t a colour choice. It’s an engineering decision.
What is DLC?
Diamond-Like Carbon is a carbon-based coating with properties similar to natural diamond — extreme hardness, low friction and high wear resistance.
Applied using a process called Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD), DLC fuses to the watch case at the atomic level. This isn’t a paint. It doesn’t flake. It becomes part of the surface.
Why Fortis Uses DLC
We build watches that take a beating. And we don’t coat them for looks — we coat them for performance.
Here’s what you get with DLC:
Ultra-Hard Surface
Up to 4500 Vickers hardness. That’s more than 20x harder than standard steel.
More resistance. Fewer scratches. Real durability.
Low Reflection. High Readability.
Matte black reduces glare in cockpit light, direct sun and field conditions offering clearer visibility when it counts.
Permanent Protection
DLC bonds directly to the case. No peeling. No chipping. Just long-term wear resistance.
Corrosion Resistant
Sweat, water, salt — DLC acts like a shield, keeping the case intact through it all.
Proven in Demanding Fields
DLC is used in aerospace, motorsport, and medical instruments. When the environment’s unforgiving, DLC is the go-to.
