The British summer season is defined by tradition, spectacle, and a certain understated elegance. Nowhere is this more apparent than at the Henley Royal Regatta, an event steeped in history and sartorial flair. This year, Bremont, the official timing partner of the Regatta, has marked the occasion with the launch of a limited-edition timepiece: the Bremont Supermarine 300m Henley Royal Regatta. Limited to just 50 pieces, this watch is a celebration of British watchmaking, the spirit of adventure, and the enduring partnership between two icons of precision and heritage.
A Balloon Launch Above the Thames
To herald the unveiling of this special edition, Bremont orchestrated a visually arresting spectacle: a bold white and blue hot air balloon, echoing the colours of the new watch, soared gracefully above the River Thames at Henley-on-Thames. The early morning launch provided a fitting tribute—both to the regatta’s official palette and to Bremont’s own origins in the heart of this historic town. The balloon’s flight was more than a publicity stunt; it was a poetic nod to the brand’s ethos of adventure and its deep-rooted connection to British sporting tradition.
Crisp, Refined, and Purposeful
The dial of the Supermarine 300m Henley Royal Regatta is an example of restrained elegance. Presented in a matt white finish, it offers a clean, legible canvas that plays beautifully with the light. Applied indexes, infilled with white Super-LumiNova® (with a blue emission), ensure outstanding visibility in all conditions, a practical touch that never detracts from the dial’s refined appearance. The polished nickel-plated hands, also filled with Super-LumiNova®, glide over a printed white minute track, maintaining both clarity and sophistication. At 6 o’clock, the official Henley Royal Regatta crest sits proudly, a subtle yet unmistakable mark of exclusivity and partnership. Framing the dial is a vibrant blue anodised aluminium bi-directional bezel, its colour a direct homage to the regatta’s official hues, adding a dash of sporting chic to the overall aesthetic.
Robust Engineering and Fine Finishes
Beneath the closed, decorated case back beats the Bremont calibre BB63-AH. This automatic movement is engineered for reliability and performance, featuring 25 jewels for smooth operation, a Glucydur balance wheel for stability and resistance to temperature changes, an Anachron balance spring, and a Nivaflex mainspring for enhanced durability and precision. It is tuned for 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz), ensuring a smooth sweep of the seconds hand. The 56-hour power reserve offers ample autonomy for daily wear or weekend adventures
While the movement is hidden from view, Bremont’s reputation for good finishing and robust construction assures the wearer of its quality. The closed case back, adorned with special decoration for the edition, underscores the watch’s tool-like nature and its suitability for real-world use.
Modern Proportions and Practicality
The Supermarine 300m Henley Royal Regatta features a 40mm uni-body case crafted from 904L stainless steel, a material prized for its exceptional corrosion resistance and lustrous finish. The case measures 49mm in length and 12mm in depth, striking a harmonious balance between presence and wearability. The blue aluminium uni-directional dive bezel not only enhances the visual appeal but also provides tactile, precise operation for timing purposes. Water resistance is rated to 300 metres (980 feet), making this watch equally at home on the riverbank or beneath the waves. The domed sapphire crystal, treated with anti-reflective coating, ensures clarity and resilience. Completing the package is a 904L steel bracelet, equipped with a quick-release clasp and micro-adjustment system. All the details speak about Bremont’s commitment to comfort and versatility.
The Evolution of Bremont: A Modern British Watchmaking Story
Since its founding in 2002, Bremont has pursued a singular vision: to create the world’s most capable tool watches, inspired by the great British pioneers of exploration. The brand’s journey has been marked by a relentless focus on engineering, durability, and a distinctly British aesthetic. The opening of ‘The Wing’, Bremont’s state-of-the-art 35,000 sq. ft manufacturing facility in the Chiltern valley, signalled a new era for British horology, bringing more of the watchmaking process in-house and reinforcing Bremont’s commitment to excellence. The Supermarine 300m Henley Royal Regatta is a attestation to this evolution: a watch that honours tradition, embraces modernity, and stands as a symbol of what British watchmaking can achieve when it dares to take things further.
Bremont Supermarine 300m Henley Royal Regatta is a commemorative piece, a statement of a powerful partnership, precision, and the enduring allure of British craftsmanship. For those fortunate enough to secure one of the 50 examples, it promises to be a companion for both adventure and celebration, on the water and beyond.
