Breitling launches timepiece and book celebrating Red Arrows 50th display season
In celebration of the Red Arrows 50th display season, Breitling has created a 50 piece limited edition Transocean Chronograph featuring an engraved insignia of the Red Arrows 50th anniversary tail fin, with each piece accompanied by a special edition book, produced by Breitling and publishers the Times Group, in collaboration with leading modern aviation artist David Bent and the Red Arrows.
Monday night's event at the Breitling boutique, New Bond Street, marked the debut of the new limited edition watch and book.
David's original painting 'Timeless' (above) - which features on the front cover of the book - was also exhibited at the celebratory dinner following the event.
The book features many of David's outstanding artworks, inspired by time spent with the Red Arrows and is set to become a collectors item.
Details of the accompanying eBook are available on request.
Having worked with Breitling, the Red Arrows and the Times Group on this, David and Carole Bent said: "It has been an excellent collaboration , great teamwork and we are very pleased with the result."
Above:
The Red Arrows 50th Anniversary Watch.
Breitling’s status as official supplier to the world of aviation first came about with the RAF in the 1930s; with the development of on-board chronographs for use in prop-driven fighter planes during WWII. Further developments in watchmaking were made with the first wrist- worn chronograph for pilots and this set the scene for launch of the iconic Navitimer in 1952; as a model equipped with a circular slide-rule able to measure average speed and productivity rate, it was soon named the official watch of the AOPA (Airline Owners and Pilots Association).
The RAF Aerobatic Team, The Red Arrows, is one of the world's premier aerobatic display teams.
Representing the speed, agility and precision of the Royal Air Force, the Team is the public face of the service. They assist in recruiting to the Armed Forces, act as ambassadors for the United Kingdom and promote the best of British.
Flying distinctive Hawk jets, the Team is made up of pilots, engineers and essential support staff with frontline, operational, experience. 2014 will be the 50th display season for the Red Arrows, in which they will continue to enthrall, captivate and inspire millions of people both in the UK and around the world.
David Bent’s innovative approach to aviation art has established him as a leading artist in this field. His journey with the Red Arrows began in 2006.
Andrew Morton, PR Manager, The Red Arrows, RAF Scampton UK 2014, said: "With wonderful use of colour, expert detail and creativity, David Bent's work perfectly showcases both the excitement of flight and its inherent beauty. His art reflects the precision and engineering excellence of the Royal Air Force Aerobatics team. In addition, he captures the imagination of those who see and are inspired by his pieces - just as the Red Arrows do with every performance and display."
