About This Watch:

A limited edition run of 2012 numbered timepieces celebrating the 100th Anniversary of Fortis, the Fortis F-43 Big Day/Date Automatic Ref 700.10.81 features a large day window at the 9 o’clock position and a large date window at the 3 o’clock position.

The History:   While Fortis is a known name to horological enthusiasts and watch collectors, their name might now be as familiar to all. Fortis is one of the few watchmakers in the world that remains, to this day, independent despite its rich history in Swiss watchmaking. Fortis was founded in 1912 by Walter Vogt. In 1926 Fortis, in collaboration with watch inventor, John Harwood, created the first automatic watch to be put into production, thus setting the stage for the likes of many major brands we see on the market today, such as Rolex, Omega, and more. Later, in 1940, Fortis pioneered the way for one of the first water-resistant watches ever built.

The Watch:  The Fortis F-43 Big Day/Date Automatic Ref 700.10.81 features a 43mm stainless steel brushed case with a sapphire crystal.  An exhibition case back showcases the Fortis Calibre F-2018 movement with the big day/date mechanism, with the Fortis crown logo on the crown.  The black dial features a circular relief pattern with large Arabic numerals with a 13-24 hour scale at the outer flange.  A day window is located at the 9 o’clock position and a date window is at the 3 o’clock position.  The case back features the engraving with the limited edition indication with the production number in the series of 2012 pieces.  

The Details:  This Fortis F-43 Limited Edition Big Day/Date Automatic Ref 700.10.81 is number 308 of 2012.  This timepiece includes the outer and inner boxes, serial number hang tag, instruction manual, international warranty booklet, and limited edition certificate.  This F-43 comes with the Fortis black leather strap with contrast stitching and stainless steel Fortis tang-style buckle with crown logo.