Australian watch brand Haigh & Hasting launched just two weeks ago and is now looking for UK retailers to expand its distribution network.
Perth-based watch company, with a collection of limited production divers watches on colourful rubber straps, is the brainchild of founder and chief operating officer Matthew Sears and chief executive Simon Haigh.
Haigh & Hastings has four models planned for 2014 and launched with direct online sales in Australia, UK, US, South Africa and a network of selected retailers.
Its first model is the 1000-foot M2 Diver Automatic is limited to 300 pieces and is currently selling on the company’s website for AUS $522.73 (£280.77). This will be followed by the M2 Redhead.
Whilst designed for a global audience the brand seeks to capture the ‘confident but unstuffy’ Australian spirit and target the mid price range.
Haigh said: “Our goal with the Haigh & Hastings brand is to present to Australia and the world high quality timepieces that are classic in design, built for daily wear, with a subtle and uniquely Australian flair. The watch styles were conceived with our local lifestyle of hard work, adventure and affinity for the sea in mind, whilst embodying a level of refinement suitable for the boardroom”.
The 1000-foot M2 Diver features 24 jewel automatic movements, sapphire crystals and screw down crowns and according to Haigh & Hastings, have been independently checked and verified.
Aiming to cause a stir in the sports sector, Haigh & Hastings has already developed partnerships with Australian Super Rugby franchise Western Force, a US Polar expedition and has sponsored the Perth Swan River Sailing Regatta 2014.