Bremont Terra Nova Jimmy Chin Chronograph

Bremont, the British watchmaker renowned for its aviation-inspired timepieces and dedication to mechanical excellence, has embarked on a new adventure. This time, the journey takes them not to the skies, but to the unforgiving terrains of the world's highest peaks, in partnership with the legendary climber, photographer, and filmmaker, Jimmy Chin. The result? The Bremont Terra Nova Jimmy Chin Chronograph, a watch that encapsulates the spirit of exploration, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of one's passions.



For those unfamiliar with Bremont, their story is one of passion, precision, and a distinctly British spirit. Founded in 2002 by brothers Nick and Giles English, the company emerged from a shared love of aviation and engineering, instilled in them by their father, a former RAF pilot and aeronautical engineer. This heritage is deeply ingrained in Bremont's DNA, evident in their early collections that paid homage to iconic aircraft and historical figures in aviation. However, Bremont's ambition extends beyond the cockpit. Their watches are designed to be "tested beyond endurance," capable of withstanding extreme conditions, whether in the air, on land, or at sea. This commitment to durability and performance is what has attracted a loyal following among explorers, adventurers, and military personnel.



The Terra Nova collection, which serves as the foundation for the Jimmy Chin Chronograph, draws inspiration from a different era of exploration – the golden age of polar expeditions and mountaineering. These early adventurers relied on robust and reliable pocket watches to navigate treacherous landscapes and withstand the harshest elements. The Terra Nova watches echo this spirit, embodying a rugged yet refined aesthetic, with a focus on functionality and legibility.



Now, with the introduction of the Terra Nova Jimmy Chin Chronograph, Bremont takes this legacy of exploration to new heights. Jimmy Chin, a modern-day adventurer who has scaled the world's most challenging peaks and captured those experiences through breathtaking photography and filmmaking, embodies the very essence of the Bremont spirit. His accomplishments, including the first American ski descent from the summit of Mount Everest and the Oscar-winning documentary "Free Solo," speak volumes about his courage, determination, and artistic vision.



The collaboration between Bremont and Chin is a natural fit, a meeting of minds that share a deep appreciation for pushing boundaries and embracing challenges. This shared ethos is beautifully translated into the Terra Nova Jimmy Chin Chronograph, a watch that is both a reliable tool for adventure and a sophisticated expression of personal style.



Looking at the watch itself, one is immediately struck by its bold yet balanced design. The 42.5mm cushion-shaped case, crafted from either 18ct rose gold or a combination of 904L steel and rose gold, commands attention without being overly assertive. The bi-directional bezel, with its black ceramic insert and compass markers, hints at the watch's adventurous spirit, while the rose gold crown and chronograph pushers add a touch of refinement.



The dial is a study in contrasts, with a deep black backdrop that allows the rose gold sub-dials and hands to truly pop. The reverse panda configuration, where the sub-dials are lighter than the main dial, creates a visually engaging and sporty aesthetic. The light brown Super-LumiNova® numerals, generously applied to the hour markers and hands, ensure excellent legibility in all lighting conditions, a crucial feature for any adventure watch.



A closer look reveals subtle details that speak to the watch's meticulous craftsmanship. The central chronograph seconds hand is a vibrant red, a nod to Chin's Asian heritage and the red lacquer he uses in his photography. This splash of color adds a dynamic element to the dial, while also serving as a functional highlight for timing events.



Flipping the watch over, we are greeted by an extraordinary exhibition case back, showcasing the intricate workings of the BE-50AV movement. But what truly sets this case back apart is the evocative image of the Teton mountain range, a place that holds special significance for Chin as his second home and training ground. This personalized touch adds a unique and sentimental value to the watch, connecting it to Chin's personal journey and the spirit of exploration that he embodies.



Bremont has always been a brand that prioritizes substance over superficiality. Their watches are not merely decorative objects; they are precision instruments designed to perform under pressure, to withstand the rigors of exploration and adventure. The Terra Nova Jimmy Chin Chronograph is no exception.



At the core of this watch beats the BE-50AV movement, a modified calibre 13 1/4''' automatic chronograph movement. This robust and reliable engine, based on the venerable Valjoux 7750 architecture, has been meticulously refined by Bremont to meet their exacting standards. With 27 jewels, a Glucydur balance wheel, an Anachron balance spring, and a Nivaflex mainspring, this movement delivers exceptional accuracy and a healthy 56-hour power reserve.



But Bremont doesn't stop at simply sourcing a high-quality movement. They take it a step further, subjecting each BE-50AV to rigorous testing and chronometer certification to ensure it meets the ISO 3159 standard for accuracy and precision. This commitment to quality is evident in every tick of the watch, providing the wearer with the confidence that their timepiece is as dependable as it is stylish.



The movement's functionality extends beyond basic timekeeping. The Terra Nova Jimmy Chin Chronograph features a central chronograph seconds hand, a 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock, a small seconds counter at 9 o'clock, and a discreet date window at 6 o'clock. These complications, presented in a clean and legible layout, enhance the watch's practicality, making it a versatile tool for timing events and keeping track of daily schedules.



Protecting this intricate mechanism is a case that is as robust as it is refined. The 42.5mm cushion-shaped case, available in either 18ct rose gold or a combination of 904L steel and rose gold, strikes a perfect balance between size and wearability. The use of 904L steel, a high-grade material known for its exceptional corrosion resistance and durability, is a testament to Bremont's commitment to using the best possible materials.



The case construction is a testament to Bremont's engineering expertise. The Trip-Tick® case design, a signature feature of many Bremont watches, involves machining the case from three separate parts: the middle barrel, the bezel, and the case back. This intricate process not only enhances the watch's structural integrity but also allows for a greater degree of design flexibility.



The bi-directional bezel, with its black ceramic insert and compass markers, adds a functional and stylish element to the watch. The ceramic material is virtually scratch-proof, ensuring that the bezel retains its pristine appearance even after years of use. The compass markers, while perhaps not essential for everyday wear, add a touch of adventurous spirit and serve as a reminder of the watch's connection to exploration.



The dial of the Terra Nova Jimmy Chin Chronograph is a masterclass in legibility and design. The deep black backdrop provides a stark contrast to the rose gold sub-dials and hands, ensuring that the time and chronograph functions are easily readable at a glance. The light brown Super-LumiNova® numerals, generously applied to the hour markers and hands, further enhance visibility in low-light conditions.



The choice of rose gold for the sub-dials, hands, and crown adds a touch of warmth and sophistication to the watch. This luxurious accent complements the black dial and bezel, creating a visually balanced and harmonious aesthetic. The red chronograph seconds hand, inspired by Chin's photography and Asian heritage, adds a dynamic element to the dial, drawing the eye to the chronograph function.



Completing the watch is a quick-release black nubuck leather strap with box stitch detail and an 18ct rose gold pin buckle. The strap is both comfortable and durable, perfectly complementing the watch's rugged yet refined aesthetic. The quick-release mechanism allows for easy strap changes, providing the wearer with the option to customize the watch's look to suit their personal style.



The Bremont Terra Nova Jimmy Chin Chronograph is offered in two limited edition variants. The full 18ct rose gold edition is limited to just 15 pieces and retails for $30,950. The bi-color version, with a 904L steel case and rose gold accents, is limited to 100 pieces and retails for $7,750. Both versions come presented in an elegant wooden display box, accompanied by a copy of Jimmy Chin's extraordinary book of alpine photography, "There and Back: Photographs from the Edge."