Swatch Art
Sam Francis Swatch (1992)
In 1992 the American painter Sam Francis turned a Swatch into a small action painting. It is a colorful and fairly accessible Swatch Art Special.
- Year
- 1992
- Artist
- Sam Francis
- Brand
- Swatch
- Reference
- GZ123
Sam Francis Swatch at a glance
The Sam Francis Swatch is a 1992 Art Special by the American painter Sam Francis. Swatch describes it as "an action-packed painting in watch form", as if it were painted directly on the wrist. The reference is GZ123.
The artist
Sam Francis (1923–1994) was an American painter linked with Abstract Expressionism and color field painting. He is known for bright splashes and drips of color with open white space around them. That style transfers well to a small plastic watch.
Design and details
- Swatch plastic case with quartz movement.
- Dial and strap are covered with Francis's color splashes.
- Printed signature, as noted by an auction listing.
- A related lithograph exists: according to a 1stdibs listing, it was published by Galerie Piltzer and Swatch in 1992 for the Swatch Art Special project, printed by Mourlot.
Edition size and release
We could not verify an edition size for the Sam Francis Swatch, so we do not state one. It was released as an Art Special in 1992. Sam Francis pieces were also part of the Blum Swatch collection sold by Phillips de Pury in 2011.
Sam Francis Swatch on the secondary market
This watch appears regularly at online auctions and with dealers, often still sealed. Unworn pieces with their original box and packaging are preferred. The lithograph is a separate work of art and is valued on its own; a watch and lithograph together can make an attractive lot.
How to check a Sam Francis Swatch
Check the reference GZ123 on the back or packaging and compare the print with documented examples, because each splash pattern belongs to the design. Make sure the strap is original and matches the dial. If you also own the lithograph, look for the numbering on the back and the Mourlot blind stamp. Read our guide on how to spot a fake watch for general checks.
What is your Sam Francis Swatch worth?
Take photos of the watch, packaging and any lithograph and use our free watch value estimate. For a sale or an estate, a written appraisal gives you a clear, signed document.
Frequently asked questions
What is the reference of the Sam Francis Swatch?
GZ123, released in 1992.
Is there a lithograph that goes with the watch?
Yes. A lithograph was published by Galerie Piltzer and Swatch in 1992 for the Swatch Art Special project. It is a separate artwork.
How many Sam Francis Swatches were made?
We could not verify an edition size, so we do not state one.
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