Jewellery & Watch News
It was only a matter of time before the Bremont brothers, Nick and Giles English designed a watch influenced by one of the largest aircrafts in the world. Their fascination with Hollywood moviemaker turned aeronautical designer, Howard Hughes ambition to build the H-4 Hercules from wood has been with them since childhood.
With a wingspan that measures longer than the Statue of Liberty, the sheer size impressed the world with many deeming the challenge impossible. His innovative spirit that enabled him to defy convention is what inspired Bremont to design a trio of limited editions that share his meticulous attention to detail and drive for perfection.
Available in three variations, aviation enthusiasts can admire a stainless steel version of 300 pieces and a rose gold and platinum alternative manufactured to 75 pieces each. A new movement has been designed for the occasion, the 25 jewel BWC/02 Calibre that is based on a previous design, the BWC/01 that was the result of a collaboration with La Joux Perret.
A striking feature of the movement is the automatic winding rotor painstakingly cut into four propeller blades from the original birchwood veneer of the H-4 Hercules itself. Bespoke furniture makers, Silverlining took on the role and did a marvellous job, which can be admired from the transparent caseback. Due to essential preservation work, the wood became available to allow for aviation enthusiasts worldwide to wear a piece of the H-4 Hercules on the wrist. It doesn’t stop there; the new fleet are packaged in an English-made bridle leather case that incorporates the original aileron fabric from the control surfaces.
The flying boat of the 1940s is potentially one of the most important planes to have ever graced the skies. Howard Hughes approach to aviation has certainly made history finding solutions where others would have failed. Aluminium was not available to him and therefore, showcases his engineering talent in just one minute on the 2nd November 1947. Known across the globe as the ‘Spruce Goose’ – a nickname Hughes detested – the aircraft is just as iconic as the man himself!
