The world of watchmaking is a fascinating realm, and today we delve into a unique piece that has caught the eye of many enthusiasts. Introducing the Fears Brunswick 40.5 Jump Hour 'Ultimus', a timepiece that concludes a captivating chapter in the brand's journey.
A Modern Twist on an Old Favorite
Fears has unveiled the final variation of its Brunswick Jump Hour collection, and this 'Ultimus' edition is a true standout. Collaborating with watch content creator Andrew Morgan, they've taken the modern design elements of the Brunswick Jump Hour and elevated them to a whole new level. The 'Ultimus' boasts a sleek, black-and-white aesthetic with a 'Phantom White' dial that's simply mesmerizing.
The Luminescent Focus
The star of the show is undoubtedly the jump hour dial, which is generously lumed. Unlike traditional Brunswick Jump Hour designs, this version uses sapphire to showcase the oversized hour disc beneath, seamlessly integrating it into the overall design. A sleek black outer ring frames the dial, while two luminous ceramic discs take center stage. The lower disc displays the jumping hours, and the upper disc houses the minute track and a bold black minute hand. This central lumed ceramic disc is connected to a frosted outer ring, offering a subtle glimpse of the inactive hour numerals.
Technical Details
The steel case remains true to the Brunswick collection, measuring 40.5mm in diameter and 12.8mm thick, with a lug-to-lug distance of 47mm. Powering this timepiece is a Sellita SW200 base movement, paired with a Christopher Ward JJ01 jumping-hour module. The exhibition caseback reveals the Sellita movement, adorned with the brand's distinctive 'Bristol Flower' motif. The 'Ultimus' is presented on a luxurious black calf leather strap with Alcantara lining, or alternatively, it can be paired with a sleek 5-link stainless steel bracelet.
Availability and Pricing
The Fears Brunswick 40.5 Jump Hour 'Ultimus' is available for purchase through the brand's online store or at their boutique in Bristol, England. The model with the strap is priced at £4,450 (including VAT), while the option with both the bracelet and strap is £4,750 (including VAT). Each watch is individually numbered, and orders are being accepted for a limited one-week window, ending on August 17th.
Personal Thoughts
I must admit, this is by far my favorite iteration of the Brunswick Jump Hour collection. It evokes a sense of contemporary elegance reminiscent of designs like the A. Lange & Söhne Zeitwerk Lumen, yet it maintains its own unique identity. While I appreciate the complexity of jump hour watches, I often find their designs a bit static due to the limited moving parts and empty spaces on the dial. However, the 'Ultimus' breaks this mold with its layered dial design, combining frosted textures and lumed ceramic surfaces to create a dynamic and captivating piece.
It's intriguing that Fears has chosen to conclude the Brunswick Jump Hour collection with this 'Ultimus' edition. I can't help but wonder if this design will make a reappearance in the future, given its apparent popularity. Personally, I'd love to see this unique take on the jump hour complication become a permanent fixture in their collection.
Final Reflections
The Fears Brunswick 40.5 Jump Hour 'Ultimus' is a testament to the brand's ability to innovate and push the boundaries of watch design. With its modern aesthetic, luminescent dial, and technical prowess, it's a timepiece that demands attention and admiration. While its availability is limited, its impact on the watch world is undoubtedly lasting.
