Hanging Out with the Co-Founders of Bremont

The English Tour with Bremont co-founders Nick and Giles English hits the West Coast this year.  Along the way, they stopped by Feldmar Watch Company on Pico in Los Angeles.  I got a chance to attend and meet Nick and Giles.

Bonus:  The event was also the unveiling of a new Limited Edition watch.

Nick's 1970 Series II Jaguar E-Type

Nick brought his Jaguar while Giles drove his Porsche

Giles' 1973 Porsche 911T

Since Feldmar does not have a parking lot, the boys parked their cars right on the sidewalk.  I thought about bringing my car, but the lack of parking changed my mind.  I found out later that they would have let me park in front, too.

Mingling at Felmar

Karaoke

I know it looks like Nick and Giles are doing a karaoke duet.  But, they did a quick intro to the brand and their tour.  A video was shown to get the crowd of about 50 pumped up about the brand.  I was already pumped to be there.

Carol, Giles, Scott (owner of Feldmar) and Nick

Giles and Mark Healey

The team introduced new brand ambassador Mark Healey.  Mark is basically Aquaman.  He surfs huge 60 feet waves, free dives to 160 feet deep, holds his breath for 2 minutes under water (over 6 minutes on land).  These photo are rare images of Mark on land.

Fish and Chips

After a brief introduction we were presented with a video about the new Limited Edition Waterman.  Limited to 300 pieces, based on the S2000 with GMT (like the Terra Nova and Endurance LE's). A white dial with blue lume, sapphire crystal and bezel, with sapphire display caseback.  Oh, and the strap...a black nylon strap with red stitching.

Kevin unveils the 2018 collection

Kevin, the new North American Director of Sales was there.  He unveiled the 2018 collection along with the new Limited Editions.

Limited Edition Waterman

Look at that strap!

I was the first to try on the new Limited Edition Waterman.  This was a prototype as it did not have markings on the back.

Limited Edition 1918

Had to check out the rotor on the Limited Edition 1918.  Such a beautiful piece.

Photo with Mark, Nick, and Giles

Spent some time looking at the other Bremonts on site as well as other watches that were on the floor.  I brought my Bremont cap for the boys to sign...and a silver pen.  Nick remembered me from the last Bremont event at Feldmar, over two years ago. 

Nick signing my Bremont cap

Argh, I forgot to ask Nick and Giles about getting a Bremont MBI on Tom Cruise for Top Gun:  Maverick.

Wrist shot

The obligatory wrist shot.  Nick is wearing an AIRCO MACH 1 with grey canvas NATO strap. I am wearing n MBIII with grey canvas NATO strap.  Giles has the U-2 on a Hambleden leather NATO strap.

Waterman

One final shot of the Limited Edition Waterman with my signed Bremont cap.

Thanks to Nick, Giles, Carol, and Kevin, and everyone at Bremont.  Also Scott, Jamie, Ben, Fred, and everyone at Feldmar Watch Company for hosting a wonderful event.

Bremont Propeller Arms

The Fifth Annual Halloween Competition is going on at the Alt1tude Forums.  I was lucky to win the last two years.  This year, one of the prizes is the new Bremont NATO strap...and stickers.  I love stickers...and straps.

Bremont logo

My entry this year is propeller arms.  One day while staring at my watch, I noticed that the propellers in the Bremont logo kinda looks like two arms coming together.

Original sketch of propeller arm idea

Most of the photos were taken through a mirror, photos of me were taken by my wife.  Obviously, my hands are occupied during this process and could not operate a camera.

Standing in front of mirror, testing out the concept

Next step is to get some paint or make up.  Yes, another painted submission.  Funny thing is, I am not much of a painter. 

Halloween make up

I got a few packs of Halloween make up and some brushes, pencils, and sponges.  I ended up only using the sponges. 

Laying out the artwork

I used an eyeliner pencil to layout the artwork.  For normal people, they would have to prepare their arms, possibly by trimming or shaving their arms.  Lucky for me, I am a freak of nature and have (virtually) no hair on my arms. 

Sponging on the white

First paint to go on is the white.  The idea is any mistakes can be covered by the black later. 

More white

I painted most of the arm, wrist, and back of hands.  This leaves the fingers last so paint would not contaminate the sponge.  Once most of the white is done, I move on to the black.

Laying on the black

The black I got was not as opaque as the white, so applying and blending was more involved.  Lots of dabbing and blotting

Working with a mirror

As with my first entry, working in the mirror is the hardest part.  Sometimes I have to flip the image in my head before applying it to myself.  Also, I stumbled with where I was in relation to my reflection.

Finishing touches

The last parts were the hands.  I left unseen areas unpainted.  Also, I should have worn a black shirt and not an Underdog shirt. 

All that for this one shot

After two hours of dipping and blending, we did a quick photo shoot.  Other than holding still, the hardest part was trying to hold my arms and hands at the right angle and shape of the Bremont propellers.

Okay, obviously, I could not include one of my Bremont watches in the the shot.  Hopefully, I get a pass.  Entry submitted and hoping to get at least a sticker...perhaps a NATO strap.

Design Concepts for Bremont

It is no secret that I love Bremont watches.  I recently acquired my second Bremont, no doubt a third one will come along.

The other day, some watch design ideas popped into my head.  Bremont began in 2002, so 2017 will be the Fifteenth Anniversary of the brand.  What better way to celebrate than with some new, possibly Limited Edition, designs.

I did some photoshop mock-ups to see if it can work.  I have watermarked my images in case someone 'borrows' them and others may mistaken them for real concepts.  I have no affiliation with Bremont...but, Bremont is free to use these as 'inspiration' for their range of watches.

Here are three quick concepts:

Tachymetre concept

Tachymetre

I also have other watches in my collection, one happens to be an Omega Speedmaster.  One of the features I like about the Speedmaster (and other watches) is the Tachymetre on the bezel.  

Bremont has the Chronograph function on many of their watches since the beginning.  But none have had a Tachymetre.  Honestly, I think very few people use this function, but I like the look of it.  

I used the ALT1-ZT as a base and added the inner rotating bezel of the ALT1-WT.  Colours were changed to add a little flare.  Then, I added the Tachymetre (stolen from a Speedmaster) to the bezel. 

Propeller second hand

Propeller Second Hand

The Bremont logo has a propeller under the word mark.  The propeller is also seen on the crown of most of the Bremont collection.  If you have seen any of their videos, the into shows the propeller rotating to reveal the Bremont logo.

So, I took the propeller and made it the second hand.  One problem...well, two problems.  First, it spans the across the entire dial.  My solution to this is to add markings to one tip similar to markings on real propellers.

The second issue, looking at the propeller orientation, they are turning anti-clockwise.  As you know watches and clocks turn clockwise (unless you have a Goofy watch).  I simply flipped the propeller to allow for clockwise rotation.

In the concept above, I took a SOLO and applied the propeller second hand to it.

And yes, I did try to make the hour and minute hands as propellers, but it simply does not work.  There are two major problems.  The first, the hands are different lengths and off-balanced propeller wings just do not work.  The other issue is, the hands are only opposite of each other eleven times around the face.  Example:  12:32, 2:43, 4:54...etc.

Propeller second hand at 9H

Propeller Second Hand on 9H Subdial

One of the coolest things Bremont has done was to use the small second hand, at the subdials, as a propeller.  This can be seen on some of their Limited Edition pieces such as the EP120 and P-51, using each aircraft's respected propeller design as a second hand.  These pieces also have their propeller designs integrated into rotor, which can be seen through the display caseback.  This treatment can also be seen on some exclusive military edition pieces.

I thought that would be interesting to see with the Bremont logo propeller.  Here I took their latest Limited Edition, the DH-88, and modified the second hand at the 9H position.

That is it for now.  Perhaps more ideas in the future.  It would be pretty neat if Bremont took inspiration from some of my ideas and implemented them into their line.

Nick and Giles, something to think about for your Fifteenth Anniversary.

Update (15 Nov 16):  I shared my concepts with the Alt1tude forum and some suggested a moon phase watch.  Slow day at work...here you go.

Moon Phase Concept

I used another SOLO as a base and 'acquired' the moon phase additions from a Jaeger-LeCoultre.  I moved the Day and Month indicator to the 'traditional' 10H and 2H positions.  The date ring just fit perfectly in the inner bezel.

Putting the moon phase subdial at 6H meant I had to adjust the "Automatic Chronometer" to fit inside.  The "London", normally on the inner bezel or under the 6H marker.  I had to modify the 6H marker so the subdial would fit,  since there was already text in the subdial, I moved "London" to 'bridge' the gap between the day and month indicators, just under the Bremont logo.

Bremont Candy

The Alt1tude Forum is having their fourth annual Halloween competition.  I entered last year and won some cool stuff.  This year, there is more cool stuff, including another key ring and a wooden display.  I know I am not going to top what I did last year, but I will enter anyway.

Bremont crowns

This year, my theme is based on the Bremont crown. Like most watch companies, the crown of each (okay, most) Bremont has their logo on it, the propeller.  For some Bremont ranges that have a Roto-Click™ bezel, there is a Royal Air Force roundel on the crown.

Bremont T-Bar Cufflinks

These crown details are also seen in Bremont's accessories like key fobs and cufflinks.

So, my idea is to paint these little logos on to chocolate confectioneries that are coated in a hard candy shell...basically, M&M's.  By the way, this is also the 75th Anniversary of M&M's (introduced in 1941).

M&M's, paint, brushes

Contrary to popular belief, I do not have a surplus of M&M's, so I needed to do some shopping.  Luckily, this happens to be a Halloween competition...and they have Halloween themed M&M's, of course they do.  This is perfect as they are Fall/Halloween colours.  I even bought a plastic plate to tie everything together.

And yes, I do have paint supplies, so no need to acquire those.

Painting M&M's

When people ask me, "what did you do this weekend".  I answer with, "I painted logos on M&M's"

Helps to have a steady hand

I spent about ninety minutes painting logos.  Only six roundels and about twenty propellers were painted for the photo.

M&M's and ALT1-C

Here are the final compositions for the competition.  Above with my ALT1-C and painted M&M's 'pouring' out of the bag.

Bremont pouch

I thought it might look interesting to have the M&M's pour out of the Bremont pouch from the key fob I won last year.

Oh, so artsy.

Maybe someday, Bremont will release a line of 'Tested Beyond Endurance' confections and desserts.

Bremont Co-Founder Nick English

Hanging out with Nick English

Last month Feldmar Watch Company held a meet and greet event with Bremont Co-Founder Nick English.  The event also showcased Bremont's newest product, prototypes that premiered at Baselworld in March.  I was not going to miss an opportunity to see these new watches and meet Nick.

Nick was busy most of the night mingling with the other guests. No matter, as I was occupied with the prototype watches and hanging out with Neil (Sales Representative?) from Bremont.  Check out these new watches.

New Bremont watches

• MBII-WH - The Martin-Baker collaboration is now available with a white dial.  The exclusive band colour is blue.  Speaking of Martin-Baker, I learned that each time one ejects, there is up to 12-14 g of force in that 0.6 second blast. This compresses the spine, permanently, and can result in a loss of 1.5 inches in height.  The second time is another 1.5 inches for a total of 3 inches.  They will not let you fly after that as a third ejection will kill you.
• ALT1-ZT/51 - The ALT1-Z with colours inspired by the Bremont P-51.  The P-51 was a Limited Edition and is long sold out.  Even if available, it would be at a premium price.  But now, you can get the ALT1-Z in those vintage colours.
• AC-R/SS and OTUSA-R/BK - Both the America's Cup and Oracle Team USA watch features a unique Regatta Chronograph movement.  The AC-R has a five countdown timer in the 12H sub dial, while the OTUSA-R has a five and fifteen minute countdown timer. 
• Boeing 100 - Limited to 300 pieces, this watch celebrates 100 years of Boeing.  The brown motive reflects the interior of vintage Boeing cockpits, which was designed for comfort for the pilots.  The Boeing 'totem pole' logo is at 3H on the dial, and like the rest of the Boeing range, the 'arrow' is subtly placed at the tip of the second counter
• SOLO/PW and PB - The classic SOLO with polished case.  It will also have a larger display back to showcase the movement.
• SOLO-32-AJ/WH and LC/WH - For the first time, Bremont is making a ladies watch.  These feature the Bremont DNA with 32mm case.  These were prototypes with solid case backs, but the production versions will have display case backs.  All Bremont watches have open case backs with the exception of the MB and U2 Range, because of the anti-magnetic iron Faraday case.

Checking out my 3D model

Towards the end of the night, I finally got to meet Nick.  I brought the 3D model of the ALT1-C I made.  Since I posted on the ALT1TUDE forums, he already knew about it.  He was excited to finally see my model in real life...not as excited as me getting to finally meet Nick.  I also revealed that I was the 'face of Bremont'.  Again, he knew about it via the forum.  Apparently, I am semi-famous amongst the Bremont staff.

Nick signed a catalog for me

Neil and Nick from Bremont and the Feldmar staff

For those keeping track, I have visited two (Royal Exchange and Mayfair) of the four Bremont Boutiques.  Now, I have meet one (Nick) of the two Co-Founders.  

My Visit to Bremont Boutique - Mayfair

South Audley Street in Mayfair, London

While in London recently on holiday, I visited the two Bremont Boutiques.  The first stop was the Boutique at Royal Exchange.  The next day, I went to their first location on the West Side of the city in Mayfair.

Ready to enter

As expected, the Boutique is located in a pretty fancy area. Again, I was under dressed for the occasion.  While we were not greeted by a door man, you did need to be buzzed in by one of the staff.

Entire Bremont range on display

Bremont Mayfair showroom

The showroom about three times the size of the one in Royal Exchange, about the size of a three car garage.  No cars in here, but I believe at one point there was a hood of a Jaguar E-Type in the showroom (more on that later).

The lounge area

 The gentleman running the show is Cameron Pilkington.  As with Paul at Royal Exchange, Cameron and I had a nice chat about the company, watches, and the Boutique.  He showed my some Limited Edition watches from the Bremont range.

Kingsman Edition

Kingsman Stainless Steel, based on the ALT1-WT

Here is one of the three Special Edition Kingsman watches.  On a side note, I purchased the Kingsman: The Secret Service Blu-Ray based only on the knowledge that Bremont's were featured in the film.  Strapping on the Kingsman is the closest thing I can do to make me feel like a secret agent.

Jar of old watch parts

Bremont logo made with watch parts

They use old watch parts as decorative accents.  Among the decor, is a table with the Bremont propeller logo made with watch parts.  A wood table with the logo cut out and the cavity filled with old watch guts.  I want this table.  Beautiful piece!

Special Edition ALT1-C

Award for Watch Brand of the Year 2011

U-2 Range

Martin-Baker Range and the Red Ring

Remember I mentioned the Jaguar?  Cameron showed me the MKI, the Bremont and Jaguar collaboration.  Another thing of beauty.

Rotor mimics the Jaguar E-Type steering wheel

Dial mimics the E-Type gages

Bremont/Jaguar MKI

Obviously, I am not worthy of this watch.  If I owned a Jaguar, maybe.  But the way I see it,  as I am unqualified to own the Red Band MBI, I too am unqualified to own an MKI.  I think I am already breaking 'tax bracket rules' by owning a luxury watch.

Exploded display of the MBI

Currently looking to get my wrist in either an MBIII or ALT1-WT, but that is in the very distant future...unless I find a very good deal.

B-1 Marine Clock

The B-1 Marine Clock was on display in the lounge area of the Boutique.  The face and interior was painted by Ronnie Wood of the Rolling Stones.

Bremont Keychains

Since I was at one of the Bremont Boutiques, I wanted a memento. I was debating on whether to get a key chain or a strap.   Strap seemed more useful and a few weeks later I would win a key chain.

Straps

Display themed for the Codebreaker

I wanted to see the Codebreaker.   Unfortunately, these were long sold out.  Cameron showed me one more Limited Edition watch.  The Wright Flyer.

The Wright Flyer Limited Edition

A piece of from the original Wright Flyer on the rotor

Yeah, I tried it on

It does not look quite right on my wrist, as again, I am not worthy of suck a piece.  But boy, it is a beautiful piece.  The watch features a piece of the original Wright Flyer that Wilbur and Orville used to take the first flight.  Quite an honour to be in the presents of such a historical artifact.  Wow, just wow!

Employee exclusive Bremont pen, not for sale

The mysterious trunk

There was a trunk in the corner of the room.  I wondered what was in this mysterious trunk.  We were in  the Boutique for over an hour and saw customers come and go.  I noticed one customer was picking up a watch he purchased earlier, then noticed on of the associates open the mysterious trunk to grab a bag.  This is where they keep the bags and catalogs.

I wanted one of those bags.  The best way to get one of those bags was to purchase something.  Sure, I could have asked for one, but what is the fun in that.  Besides, if I was ever to buy something Bremont, this is one of four places in the world to do it.  I decided on the Seattle Strap.

Bremont Seattle Strap

I had a great time at Bremont Mayfair.  I want to thank Cameron for his hospitality and patience.

Cameron wearing an MBII, standing next to a Martin-Baker ejector seat

If you are in the London area, I recommend a visit to both the Bremont Boutiques.  For me, two Bremont Boutiques down, two to go.  Hong Kong and New York, I am coming for you.

Obligatory shot of my Bremont in front of Bremont

29 South Audley Street
London, W1K 2PE
England
+44 (0)207 493 5150
southaudley@bremont.com

For more information, visit bremont.com