Few names conjure images of British luxury quite like Harrods. Since 1849, the department store on Knightsbridge has been a haven for the well-heeled, a global symbol of quality and sophistication. This year, as Harrods celebrates its 175th anniversary, they’ve collaborated with another, altogether younger, watchmaker to create a truly unique timepiece – the
Bamford London ‘Harrods’ Limited-Edition Snoopy PVD GMT.
Bamford London is a relative newcomer to the watchmaking scene, but they’ve quickly carved out a niche for themselves. Founded in 2008 by George Bamford, a watch collector with a passion for customization, Bamford London started by modifying existing luxury timepieces. Their focus on personalization and creating unique pieces has resonated with a watch-wearing world increasingly hungry for something different.
Courtesy of Bamford
The Bamford London ‘Harrods’ Limited-Edition Snoopy PVD GMT is a testament to this shared vision. The watch is a delightful blend of Harrods’ rich heritage and Bamford’s playful personality. At its heart is the iconic Snoopy, the beloved beagle from the Peanuts comic strip, reimagined in Harrods’ signature green and gold. Snoopy sits proudly front and center on the dial, his arms forming the hour and minute hands, with his best friend Woodstock perched on the tip of the second hand.
The details hint at the playful spirit of the collaboration. The watch itself is a sleek 40mm black steel case, coated in PVD for a touch of modern durability. The black face is a perfect canvas for the colorful Snoopy, his red doghouse adding a pop of whimsy. The watch is powered by a Swiss-made Sellita SW330-2 movement, a reliable and robust engine for everyday wear.
Courtesy of Bamford
But the true charm of this watch lies in its exclusivity. Limited to just 75 pieces, the Bamford London ‘Harrods’ Limited-Edition Snoopy PVD GMT is a guaranteed conversation starter. It’s a timepiece that transcends mere function; it’s a badge of individuality, a celebration of two British icons, and a delightful homage to a pop culture mainstay.
Let’s start with the obvious – that delightful Snoopy illustration. It’s hard to look at this watch and not smile. Peanuts characters have a universal appeal; they represent a sense of childhood wonder and a whimsical spirit. Yet, here, Snoopy feels sophisticated. Rendered in gold on a black background, with pops of Harrods green highlighting his collar and doghouse, Snoopy takes on a more refined, mature air – while still retaining his inherent playfulness.
Courtesy of Bamford
That playful maturity carries over to the watch’s functions. It’s a GMT, a function designed for globetrotters who need to keep track of multiple time zones. This subtle functionality makes the Snoopy a watch that’s not just charming, but useful too. This combination of whimsy and practicality is what makes it the perfect choice for watch aficionados who don’t shy away from a bit of fun in their collection.
The PVD black case isn't just about sleek looks – it's about durability. PVD, or Physical Vapor Deposition, coats the stainless steel with a thin layer that resists scratches and everyday wear. It's a subtle detail that signals Bamford's commitment to making this watch a daily companion, not just a showpiece for special occasions.
At 40mm, the case diameter strikes the ideal balance for most wrists. Neither too big nor too small, it's a size that boasts presence without feeling overwhelming. This classic diameter further reinforces the notion that this is a watch built for the long haul. Trend-chasing watch sizes come and go, but 40mm retains a grounded, practical appeal.
Turning the watch over, the caseback offers a continuation of the black PVD finish. Practical, yes, but it also creates a canvas against which the Snoopy dial really shines. The sapphire crystal allows a clear view of the Swiss-made Sellita SW330-2 movement beneath. It’s a workhorse movement with a reputation for reliable timekeeping and a solid 56-hour power reserve.
Courtesy of Bamford
While not quite an in-house movement, Sellita has a strong track record of supplying movements to a range of prestigious watchmakers. For Bamford, whose focus is on unique expressions rather than movement manufacturing, it's a sound choice. This focus on outsourcing specific elements makes perfect sense - it allows Bamford to concentrate their efforts on where their strengths truly lie, in design and in creating a unique wearer experience.
Completing the package is a green Saffiano leather strap with gold stitching, a combination that's quintessentially Harrods. Saffiano leather, known for its subtle cross-hatch pattern, is prized for its durability and scratch-resistant qualities. The gold stitching adds a touch of luxury and perfectly complements the watch's green and gold color scheme.
Courtesy of Bamford
And then, of course, there’s the packaging. Presented in a special PEANUTS doghouse box lined with green and gold, this watch’s presentation is as playful as the watch itself. Every detail, from the materials used to the vibrant colors, speaks to the thoughtfulness and attention to detail that went into this collaboration.
The Bamford London ‘Harrods’ Limited-Edition Snoopy PVD GMT is not just a watch; it’s an experience. That experience is all about celebrating two icons, blending a spirit of fun with uncompromising standards. Whether you’re a die-hard Peanuts fan, a Harrods devotee, or simply someone who appreciates playful, well-crafted watches, this piece is guaranteed to put a smile on your face. But act fast, as the limited number of 75 pieces makes it a true collector’s item destined to sell quickly.