The aerobatic aces of the Red Arrows paid their first visit to Breitling’s Chronométrie watchmaking facility in La Chaux de Fonds, Switzerland this week.
Jean Paul-Girardin, vice president of Breitling and Gavin Murphy, managing director of Breitling UK, hosted the Royal Air Force’s display team on Tuesday.
Gavin Murphy, managing director of Breitling UK, said: “Aviation and Breitling go hand in hand; our name is synonymous with instruments for Professionals, which the Red Arrows are utmost. For over 130 years creating the world’s most precise chronographs and pioneering aviation firsts have been our passion. It is for this reason that hosting the Red Arrows at our home of innovation, the Breitling Chronométrie, is an honour and symbolises the affinity between two brands, who value and pursue excellence, precision and timing above all else.”
The Red Arrows were invited for a behind-the-scenes look at the facility where the 15-piece piece Limited Edition Red Arrows Anniversary Watch Collection, a Transocean Chronograph in black steel bearing the team’s insignia and striking red accents on the dial was produced to celebrate the team’s 50th display season.
The watches were presented to, and worn by, the Red Arrows during displays. A final Limited Edition watch, number 15/15 was donated for Auction at the Red Arrows Gala Dinner, to raise funds for the Air League charity. The successful bidder of this limited edition piece, Mr Duncan Barber, was invited to join the Red Arrows on this occasion at the Breitling Chronométrie, in honour and appreciation of his substantial contribution to the Air League.
The visit also marked the culmination of a unique project between the Red Arrows and the Swiss watch manufacture which marked the Red Arrows 50th display season in 2014.
Breitling’s association with the Royal Air Force dates back to the 1930s when Breitling on-board flight Chronographs were installed in RAF World War II aircraft. For over 20 years the Red Arrows have worn Breitling wristwatches as instruments for precision and timing, for their world renowned aerobatic displays.
