Chronometers have a long-standing history with military professions and the like, and with good reason: precision is an absolute premium for the military. Consider Breitling’s continued support of Air Forces around the world, or, perhaps, Omega and its well-established connection to the Apollo missions. But one brand that also has strong ties to military aviation is Bremont – and while we stock an extensive range of Bremont watches here at Banks Lyon, there are some models that few will ever have the pleasure of strapping to their wrist.
The English watch manufacturer is incredibly proud of its connection to the aviation world, to the point where they actively design, develop and create watches that are tailored to specific squadrons all across the globe. These unique and highly personal chronometers are specially designed to highlight the values and personality of these squadrons, and given to members of those units.
Often these luxury timepieces are influenced by existing Bremont models, such as the beautiful KC-135. This particular piece was made solely for those pilots, navigators and boom operators of the American military’s aerial refuelling aircraft, the Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker, whose pilots also assisted with the watch’s design. This watch was based on the popular Bremont ALT1-Z.
Then there’s the incredibly elegant Bremont Eagle Driver, which takes inspiration from the new Bremont Boeing 1, as well as the famous Boeing F15A-D tactical fighter jet. Much like its namesake, whose creation was intended to maintain air superiority, this timepiece sets a new bar for superior watch design. Depicted upon its black dial, the subtle patch of the ‘Eagle Driver’, while the rear rotor features the F-15’s air-to-air missile load.
Perhaps one of the finest looking watches in the entire military range is the distinctly bold Bremont SOLO/18 SQN. Built in order to commemorate a hundred years of operation for the RAF 18 (B) Squadron, which formed in May 1915, the SOLO/18 SQN proudly displays the badge of the unit – a red Pegasus rearing up – beneath the motto, ‘Animo et fide.’ Keen watch aficionados may notice a certain aesthetic correlation between this timepiece and the Bremont SOLO, on which it was based. However, if you were hoping to pick up the special edition SOLO/18 SQN, you’ll need to either be an existing or former member of the elite RAF 18 (B) Squadron.
Not all of Bremont’s military chronometers are based on existing models, however. Take the all-new Bremont Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm, for instance, which much like the SOLO/18 SQN, is available only to current and former members of the Naval Air Squadron.
Although Banks Lyon don’t stock these particular chronometers, we do offer a wide variety of Bremont watches that have inspired some of these horological wonders, available right here. Simply contact us on 01524 38 48 58 and we’ll be delighted to find the right watch for you.
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