The RAF Aerobatic Team, more commonly known as the Red Arrows, has a well-deserved reputation as one of the most skilled aerial performance teams in the world. In addition to delighting audiences with their thrilling displays, they serve an important function as the public face of the Royal Air Force, representing the speed, precision and agility of the service. The fast-jet pilots are selected from the very highest echelons of RAF squadrons and serve on the team for three years before returning to their frontline duties. 2014 is a very special year for the Red Arrows, commemorating 50 years of astounding aerial displays. To mark the occasion, aviation-focused watchmakers Breitling have launched a special edition of their celebrated Transocean Chronograph.
The Red Arrows are one of the UK’s most iconic teams, attracting recruits to the armed forces and promoting the best of British around the globe. Their astounding displays rely on split-second timing, so the use of precision chronographs is of the utmost importance. Breitling and the Red Arrows have a longstanding history, with the team having worn their watches for over twenty years.
The company is renowned for its strong links to the aviation industry, supplying high-precision chronographs designed specifically for the measuring of flight times since the very earliest days of aviation pioneers. They are also proud to sponsor the Wind Tunnel Project, an exhibition set in the historic wind tunnels at Farnborough Airport, where the Hawker Hurricane planes of fighter pilots were tested. It is a fitting tribute, then, that this significant milestone in the Red Arrows’ history should be celebrated with a special model of one of Breitling’s most popular chronographs.
The commemorative watch is an evolution of Breitling’s black steel Transocean Chronograph featuring additional red detailing. One of the most notable decorative features is the Red Arrows' insignia. Each of these watches will be accompanied by a special signed book. This unique keepsake is a collaborative effort between the Red Arrows, watchmakers Breitling and the artist David Bent, who specialises in creating stunning paintings and prints of aircraft.
Adding to the watch’s exclusivity is the fact that only 50 pieces have been made available for purchase at Breitling’s Bond Street branch at a retail price of £7200. An additional fifteen chronographs were crafted, with fourteen of these being presented to members of the 2014 Red Arrows Team. The last remaining watch of this run will be auctioned at a special Red Arrows Gala Dinner later this year, with proceeds going towards the Air League.
This special chronograph not only commemorates the amazing achievements of the Red Arrows over the last fifty years, but also cements the relationship that Breitling are proud to have with such an iconic British institution.
