AVI-8 creates a limited-edition Spitfire-inspired watch to mark the centenary of the Royal British Legion
This year marks the centenary of the Royal British Legion. Formed in the aftermath of the First World War to support those returning home, to this day it continues to provide support to the armed forces community. Constantly adapting to meet its complex needs of former service personnel, its work extends from small interventions to life-changing assistance. Most notably with its famous poppy appeal it is able to not only raise funds to continue to help those most in need, but to pay tribute to the work and sacrifice of these brave individuals.
AVI-8’s story has its roots in military aviation, not only inspired by classic aircraft but the stories behind the pilots that flew them. This makes it a natural partner for the Royal British Legion, with whom they have come together to produce a special limited-edition watch to mark the organisation’s 100-year anniversary. Limited to 500 pieces, with each sale of the Spitfire Type 300 Automatic Royal British Legion the watchmaker will donate a proportion of the price to the charity.
Like many of AVI-8’s other models, the watch incorporates gentle nods to vintage aircraft, here looking to the legendary Spitfire to inform its design. The 42mm-diameter case echoes its elliptical form, extending from the case body to the lugs. Turn the watch and you’ll find the spectacular display of the plane in flight. Formed as a custom-shaped rotor on the automatic movement that recreates a birds-eye view silhouette of the Spitfire, it can be seen spinning through the clear caseback.
The Royal British Legion’s iconic red poppy motif subtly makes an appearance, notably at 6 o’clock on the dial as well as rendered in epoxy on the top of the crown. Meanwhile, each of the limited-edition pieces comes presented in a special gift box, featuring the Royal British Legion’s distinctive red and blue branding.
