British luxury watchmaker William Wood has launched the Valiant Blue, a striking timepiece that blends premium craftsmanship with sustainable design while paying homage to firefighters. The latest addition to the Valiant collection features a deep blue dial, a bold red strap, and customizable movement options—setting it apart from traditional Swiss rivals like Rolex and Omega.
Swiss or Japanese Precision: A Choice for Discerning Collectors
Buyers can select between two automatic movements: the Swiss-made ETA 2824 or the Japanese Seiko NH35. The ETA 2824, renowned for its durability and precision since 1982, boasts 25 jewelled bearings and a 38-hour power reserve. Meanwhile, the Seiko NH35 offers comparable accuracy with self-winding functionality, requiring approximately 55 manual crown turns for a full wind. Industry experts note that debating the superiority of either movement is akin to splitting hairs.
Firefighter Heritage Woven into Every Detail
The Valiant Blue’s design is steeped in firefighting symbolism. The dial’s perimeter replicates the checked markings of a British fire engine, while the second hand mimics the chime of a vintage fire bell. True to William Wood’s commitment to sustainability, each watch crown features an inset crafted from brass salvaged from a 1920s British firefighter’s helmet, engraved with the brand’s helmet logo.
Eco-Conscious Straps and Practical Features
Four strap options are available, including one made from repurposed Angus Duraline British fire hose rubber—retaining a subtle smoky scent. Alternatives include metal, black rubber, and a navy Nato strap. The watch also ensures visibility in low light with Super-LumiNova-coated indices, hands, and bezel, alongside 100-meter water resistance. A transparent caseback reveals the movement and displays the limited-edition model number.
A Legacy of Bravery and Innovation
Founded by Jonny Garrett in honor of his grandfather, William Wood—a decorated firefighter with 25 years of service—the brand gained traction after a 2018 crowdfunding campaign. Its mission: to redefine British luxury through sustainable practices and firefighting heritage.
Only 250 Valiant Blue watches will be produced, with pre-orders available now. The brand is also auctioning a single red Valiant model to support Australian bushfire relief efforts.
