Bremont Waterman Limited Edition
An adventure-ready companion, tried and tested
Because of the open, inclusive nature of its founders, brothers Nick and Giles English, Bremont still has the feel of a relatively small, family endeavour; an underdog. In truth, it’s long been one of the most defiant watchmakers, constantly finding new ways to tell riveting stories through fine watches.
Late last year, explorer Ben Saunders attempted to be the first to cross Antarctica alone and unsupported. Due to a flurry of sastrugi (windblown snow ridges) and the subsequent shortening of his safety margin, Saunders didn’t quite reach his goal. But the special edition of the new Bremont Endurance he wore never let him down during 52 days on the ice. “Having an accurate timepiece is crucial when it comes to navigating,” said Saunders, “and the most reliable way of doing that is still a mechanical watch.”
Now, Bremont unveils the 43mm Waterman Limited Edition, an extension of the Supermarine range of dive watches. Featuring a GMT function, a helium release valve and an anti-shock vibration mount, it can handle the pressure half a kilometre under water; the perfect match for the man tasked with testing it. Free diver, spear fisherman, ultra-surfer and Bremont brand ambassador Mark Healey has said the Waterman was, having put it through its paces spearfishing, “as at home four atmospheres under the sea as it is at a black-tie affair.”
“The design was all about readability and robustness,” explains Nick English. “The dark blue ‘lume’ on the silver-white dial was totally new for us, and it works very well both above and below the sea. The open case back with the automatic helium valve on a 500m-tested diving watch is also a nice addition. We have a reputation for making incredibly tough and functional dive watches which are all tested intensively. The Waterman is no exception.”
In the past, Bremont has garnered attention by linking its watches to great figures or historical achievements. And though those much-coveted special editions will continue to be made, watches such as the Waterman demonstrate that Bremont is a bona fide maker of technically astute timepieces that easily rival the big marques.
£4,395; bremont.com