Fortis Frisson by Rolf Sachs - Limited Art Edition (2012)

Model History

 

The Fortis Frisson was created in collaboration with Swiss-born multidisciplinary artist and designer Rolf Sachs to commemorate Fortis’s 100th anniversary in 2012. Produced as a Limited Art Edition of only 999 individually numbered pieces, it is one of the brand’s most unusual and interactive creations.

 

“Frisson” is a French word meaning a shiver, chill or sudden thrill. Sachs expressed this idea through a specially finished mineral crystal that resembles the condensation on an ice-cold glass. In its normal state, the frosted surface partially conceals the dial. Breathing on the crystal or wiping it with a wet finger temporarily makes it transparent, revealing the white dial and its handwritten-style numerals before the frosted effect gradually returns.

 

The deliberately informal numerals, blue-tone hands and red-outlined date window create a playful contrast with the functional brushed-steel case. This example is individually numbered 397 of 999.

 

Specifications

 

• Brand: Fortis
• Model: Frisson by Rolf Sachs – Limited Art Edition
• Case/reference number: 595.11.46.3
• Limited-edition number: 397/999
• Production year: 2012
• Movement: Swiss mechanical movement
• Winding: Automatic and manual winding
• Jewels: 25
• Frequency: 28,800 vibrations per hour
• Functions: Hours, minutes, central seconds and date
• Additional features: Quickset date and hacking seconds
• Case material: Brushed stainless steel
• Case diameter: Approx. 40.5 mm excluding the crown; approx. 44.5 mm including the crown
• Lug-to-lug: Approx. 46.5 mm
• Lug width: 20 mm
• Dial: White dial with handwritten-style Arabic numerals, blue-tone hands and Rolf Sachs signature
• Crystal: Original mineral crystal with a special moisture-reactive frosted finish
• Crown: Signed Fortis crown
• Strap: Original transparent silicone strap with signed Fortis folding clasp
• Maximum wrist size: Approx. 18.5 cm
• Box and papers: Not included
• Service: Movement fully serviced in September 2026; all functions are working correctly
• Guarantee: 6-month functionality guarantee from the date of purchase

 

Condition

 

The watch is presented in good pre-owned condition and retains the highly distinctive appearance of the Fortis Frisson Limited Art Edition. The frosted appearance of the crystal is an intentional feature of the design and should not be mistaken for clouding or damage. Its specially treated surface remains free from visible scratches.

 

In its dry state, the crystal creates an icy veil over the dial, allowing only a softened view of the hands, numerals and date indication. Breathing on the surface or wiping it with a wet finger temporarily reveals the white dial, handwritten-style numerals, blue-tone hands, red-outlined date aperture and Rolf Sachs signature more clearly. Once the moisture evaporates, the crystal returns to its frosted appearance.

 

The brushed stainless-steel case displays scratches, small marks and normal signs of previous use. Its characteristic rounded profile and long, angular lugs remain clearly defined. The signed crown is present and operates correctly. The engraved stainless-steel case back also shows surface scratches, while the reference and individual limited-edition number remain clearly legible.

 

The original transparent silicone strap displays age-related yellowing, surface marks and general wear. The signed Fortis folding clasp shows scratches from previous use but closes securely. 

 

The automatic movement was fully serviced in September 2026. All functions operate correctly. A 6-month guarantee is provided on functionality from the date of purchase.

 

 

The watch has been serviced by our professional watchmaker and tested for full functionality. The water resistance of the watch cannot be guaranteed.