by William Moss
Fortis Watches: Adventurous and Artistic
Fortis was established in 1912 and is now in the process of celebrating 100 years of history. Fortis has always been known for making a quality product, using the best materials combined with an eye for the creative. Fortis has done a wonderful job using accent colors and designs on their dials, as well as being consumer-friendly by offering private label customization. The quality of the dial workmanship has always been first class. What exemplifies Fortis’ dedication to quality and artistic variety is a pair of 100th anniversary limited edition models: the Fortis B-47 Big Black and the Andora.
Fortis B-47 Big Black Limited Edition
I have always been a fan of well-made sports watches. If you like a timepiece that makes a strong statement, the Fortis B-47 Big Black is for you. The 47 mm black PVD case is brushed and eye catching; the rubber strap screws into the lugs fitting up against the side of the case. Even the screws are PVD-coated — a nice touch. The 120 turn ratchet bezel is aggressively oversized making it easy to use even while wearing gloves. The star of this piece, however, is the dial. Black and transparent, it covers a day-and-date set of sub-dials with cut-outs at 9 for the day and 3 for the date.
What sets this all-black watch aside from most others is that the hands and the day date function are easy to read because of an ample coating of Super-LumiNova. In short, if you are looking for a well-built all black sport watch which will attract attention, the Fortis B-47 Limited Edition has your name all over it.
Fortis Andora Emotions Limited Edition
The Andora Emotions Limited Edition offering by Fortis is what truly sets them aside from other brands. Fortis commissioned the pop artist Andora to apply his impressionist art skills to design a watch which could be used to celebrate their 100th anniversary.
True to form for both the artist and the brand, there was no shortage of color and detail to this piece. This automatic chronograph with a Valjoux 7750 movement is also one of the latest editiosn to the Fortis Art Edition Series. Pop art is not my domain; with that said, I find the watch visually interesting, including the sub dials. Each time you look at the watch, your eye drawn to something different. The use of color works well and is not overbearing. One appreciates the thoughtfulness in bringing the art work onto the bracelet. As a watch geek, the rubber pushers and crown are nice accents that point to the quality of the build. The brushed case and bracelet set up nicely against the vibrant art work on the dial. The 42 mm case is an excellent choice, making the piece easy to wear and display.
If you like well-made timepieces that will pique the interest of both art and watch aficionados, this watch is for you. This Andora Limited Edision will be equally at home displayed in a winding box on your mantel as it will be on your wrist.
With the issuing of the B-47 and the Andora, Fortis has shown us what the brand has stood for since 1912: the quality of the build, the range in styling and the uncompromising willingness to be creative. It’s no surprise that Fortis is celebrating its 100th birthday. One hundred candles — that’s one big birthday cake!
Gevril Group US, Canada and Caribbean Fortis Watches Agent
Gevril Group is the sole US, Canada and Caribbean agent for Fortis Watches and the official Fortis watch repair service center. Contact us by email or by calling 845-425-9882.
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