B.R.M V8-44 V8-44

B.R.M BRM V8-44 CAMPIONE Swiss Valjoux 7753 Automatic 44mm Checkered Flag Case

In the spectacular world of horology there are numerous different types of watches to choose from. One of my favourite genres is motor sport inspired timepieces. These watches are created to be the passionate drivers perfect accompaniment. Brands have cleverly tapped into this lucrative market by creating some extraordinary timepieces. Some of them have even forged partnerships with high profile automobile manufacturers. Two of the most sophisticated designs have come from Chopard (Mille Miglia), Meccaniche Veloci (Quattro Valvole), Hublot (MP-05 Laferrari) and Parmigiani Fleurier (Bugatti Super Sport). Another great example is the small independent French Watchmaker B.R.M (Bernard Richards Manufacture). I have been a great admirer of B.R.M watches for many, many years. I absolutely love their timepieces and meticulous attention to detail. These attributes have gained them an enormous amount of respect in the watch industry. Just the other day I was speaking to Christophe Hoppe the owner/designer of Australian Watch Bausele. He was humble and honest enough to say that the distinctive aesthetic of B.R.M timepiece has inspired some of his creations. Even though the two brands market their watches at different price points they both produce exquisite watches. Racing fans, and watch lovers alike. Bernard Richards brings a love of auto racing and the desire to express himself with the same style and aesthetic. BRM (Bernard Richard Manufacture) makes incredibly unique watches for the anyone who loves racing or unique style. Let’s look at the BRM V8-44. Here is a ultra race themed watch, which you can tell at first glance. Unlike other “race watch” makers, BRM focuses on the mechanicals of race cars, not just the theme or the look. As such, each of his watches contains some element of race car engine appeal. The V8 series focuses on retro styling and serves as a reminder of when cars were literally bolted together. The highly polished screws that cover most surfaces remind us of hand craftsmanship and lasting strength. It further relates to the rich chroming that older race cars enjoyed. The large crown and pushers are designed to resemble engine pistons, complete with the valves. The case of the watch has well sculpted horizontal lines and bolted on lugs that add to the “constructed” quality of the watch. My interpretation of the case is that it is supposed to resemble race car wheels (without tires of course), while the dial of the watch is retro race car dashboard. The various holes in the parts (such as the hands) alludes to weight saving techniques typically employed in high performance machinery. Adding holes in structural elements can save weight in most instances. I don’t think BRM was thinking about Swiss cheese. Inside the watch you’ll find a newer ETA Valjoux 7753 “Valgranes,” which is basically a newer and larger Valjoux 7750. Functions provide the time, date, and 12 hour chronograph, which is well integrated here with a tri-compax subdial array. I do like how well the rear window has been placed to allow for view of the movement in its lightly decorated manner. The watch itself is 44mm wide without the crown; good size. One of the real stars here is the leather strap. The race inspired checkered pattern is a true hand stitched interwoven design. I’ve seen a lot of checked straps, but this one is by far the best offering separate black and white leather pieces put together. The buckle is beautiful looking, and perfectly matches the style of the rest of the watch. We just purchased a large private watch collection that included 8 B.R.M timepieces – All in unworn – lightly worn condition! Here is one of the 8!! BRAND: B.R.M – BERNARD RICHARDS MANUFACTURE MODEL: V8-44 MOVEMENT: SWISS AUTOMATIC – CALIBRE VALJOUX 7753 CASE: STAINLESS STEEL CHECKERED FLAG PATTERN CROWN: PUSH/PULL CROWN SIZE: 44MM LUGS: FITTED DIAL: BLACK DIAL WITH ORANGE ACCENTS BEZEL: NON-ROTATING CONDITION: PRE-OWNED – EXCELLENT – LIGHTLY WORN BOXES/PAPERS: YES/YES: ORIGINAL B.R.M BOX SET, B.R.M USER GUIDE, WARRANTY CARD, PUSHER TOOL, ETC – EVERYTHING IN PICTURES! WATER RESISTANCE: – 100M STRAP/BRACELET: – ORIGINAL B.R.M ORANGE RUBBER STRAP WITH STEEL BUCKLE.