Middle East business information

Fortis is well known for its relationship with the aviation and space industry and the launch of the MARS 500 will commemorate Fortis' participation in the initiative between the European Space Agency and the Russian Institute of Biomedical Problems.

The initiative involves a simulated space mission to planet Mars, where 6 test persons will spend 520 days in the closed confines of the space lab Mars 500 in Moscow, Russia, in order to contribute to the preparation of a real mission to Mars. Fortis is a partner in the research project and its mechanical wristwatches will be worn by participants during the simulation. Fortis is also the official time keeper for the MARS 500 Mission.

"The Dubai Airshow is the premier platform for the aviation industry in the Middle East and we are excited about unveiling the new MARS 500 and introducing it in the UAE. Certain watches in our range are renowned for their ability to withstand the rigours of fighter jet speed, space travel, the arctic tundra and the depths of the ocean. The MARS 500 has to stand up to the test of the ultra-realistic Mars simulation and we are proud to participate in this project,"

said Max Peter, Business Development Manager, Fortis

The Mars 500 is a limited edition and only 2012 MARS 500 watches are being produced worldwide. Fortis will also be sharing a selection of their limited art edition watches, designed by respected artists Gerd Winner and Rolf Sachs, at the Airshow, along with exclusive museum pieces which are not available in shops.

Following the Airshow, the MARS 500 will be available exclusively throughout the UAE by Gems World.

"There are many watches out there, but Fortis has gone to the limits and has produced the ultimate timepiece. Fortis has been at the forefront of technology since 1926 when they went into series production of the first self-winding wristwatch, the Harwood. The Mars 500 is proof that Fortis is still pushing boundaries," said Mahesh Shahani, CEO, Gems World.