Have you been looking for a watch company that produces small quantities of luxury watch models? Or perhaps a prestigious timepiece brand that has a limited edition line of watches dedicated to those who have accomplished world renowned feats? If you have, then Bremont may just be the brand for you.
I was lucky enough to have been sent the Bremont ALT1-C/PW for a thorough hands-on review. This happens to be the first mechanical luxury British made watch I have reviewed. British engineering is known for being within the highest quality in the world. Although not known worldwide for watchmaking like the Swiss, you can still see their precision in brands such as Aston Martin and Land Rover.
Unboxing
ALT1-C Style
Style-wise, the British truly excel in this department, especially with London being the #1 fashion capital in the world. This fashion conscious mentality is present in every single one of Bremont’s masterpieces, and is exceptionally present in the ALT1-C/PW. Bremont is known for creating watches that can withstand high amounts of stress, such as G-forces from a fighter jet. Some of their watches are even able to withstand the forces caused by an ejection seat. The ALT1-C keeps these properties, but allows you to wear this timepiece in casual or formal settings. It can also be paired with almost any type of outfit, for everyday wearability.
Dial
The dial on this “polished white” model is stunning, elegant, and classy. Each hour, except for 6’oclock, is marked with a large visible number in a very “old english” style font. The dial is detailed and full, but not cluttered, giving off a a superb “eye pleasing” aesthetic. The dial also has “London” printed at the 6 o’clock position, and the “red arrow” at the 12’oclock indice position, which is Bremont’s signature design on nearly all of their timepieces.
Case
The case on the ALT1-C/PW is robust and thick, but still manages to keep a professional appearance with its rounded edges, and high polished & hardened stainless steel Trip-Tick finish. The case comes in slightly larger than average at 43mm, ideal for medium to large size wrists. The standout feature of the case has to be the screwed on back, with a sapphire crystal window, showing off the high precision C.O.S.C certified British mechanical movement.
Hands
You won’t find hands like these on any other luxury timepiece. The design of the hour and minute hands, were inspired by airplane propellers. They look highly unique, and provide a luxurious finishing touch to the face of the watch. The second hand is very thin, extra long, and moves with a gracious sweeping motion. The hands are made from treated steal, ensuring they last, and are able to age steadily, along with the rest of the high quality components used in the making of the ALT1-C collection.
Movement
You wouldn’t expect anything but the best powering this watch, and so that’s what you get! Inside the case you can find the calibre 13 ¼”’ BE-50AE automatic movement with 28 jewels. This perpetual automatic movement is glucydur balanced, and has an anachron balance spring, nivaflex 1 mainspring, allowing it to beat accurately at 28,800bph.
When wound up to the max, this calibre can keep ticking for 42 hours straight without any motion needed. The rotor, which is visible through the back window, is decorated and Bremont moulded, making for a nice hypnotizing show when viewed in action.
Comfort
The comfort of the ALT1-C/PW is good, but I won’t jump out of my seat to say it’s outstanding, especially compared to other luxury watches with smaller cases, thinner profiles, and smaller crowns. The watch head itself is also quite heavy compared to the leather strap it comes with, occasionally leaving it sitting off-centered on the wrist. Although this is how it was on my wrist, it may be entirely different on yours, so I highly recommend you try this watch on before you buy it.
The window on the back of the watch is not rounded, but doesn’t really feel contoured to the wrist either. After wearing it for a few days I did get used to this and it felt completely normal. You can expect a break-in period of around 1 week, to allow the leather band to loosen up, and for the slightly larger case to feel comfortable on the wrist. That is, if your used to wearing smaller watches!
Build Quality
The build quality on the ALT1-C/PW is outstanding, and definitely on par with its style points, if not exceeding them. This watch can truly handle almost anything you throw at it, whether you’re swimming (without the leather band), golfing, or sky diving. This Bremont watch is waterproof to 100 meters, and is highly shock-resistant.
When wearing the watch, holding it, or even just looking at it, you can tell the AlT1-C is second to none in terms of its quality construction. The case feels thick, and both Sapphire windows are crystal clear, and as strong as they come.
The strap of the watch is of a nice supple black genuine leather, with contrasting white stitching. Once the strap has been broken in, it’s very soft on the wrist. It also has a nice wide masculine presence, and easily accommodates the lugs on the 43mm case.
Conclusion
The ALT1-C/PW is a true watch aficionados dream. It incorporates a sporty, yet iconic design. This watch can withstand extreme conditions, and would be right at home on any active gentlemans wrist. The price point on this timepiece is reasonable, considering the exquisite mechanical engineering, and highly detailed finish. If well taken care of, this is a piece that will surely stay in your collection for a lifetime!
You can view the entire ALT1-C range on the official Bremont website here.
Have owned a Bremont ALT1-C Cream for around 6 years now and is generally my daily user.
Prior to buying I saw this model and knew I just had to have it. It’s a beautifully crafted, stylish watch which can be worn casual or when formally dressed.
It has had numerous compliments and whilst I have Rolex also it tends to get more conversations started due to the fact it has a great back story, not so common and a bit different.
One observation, rather than criticism, is I find it really difficult to get the winder out to the exact position to change the date. It may just be me. However, if any of the Bremont team are out there, feedback appreciated.
All in all, just love it