Baume & Mercier Clifton Club Burt Munro Tribute Limited Edition Watch Review
Thursday - 09 November 2017
Baume & Mercier's fascination with the sports mechanical universe continues with the speed hero, Burt Munro. Since the unique collaboration with Shelby Cobra Company three years ago, Baume & Mercier are hooked on a world of adventure and iconic legends. This November, the brand release a limited edition in partnership with the first motorcycle company, Indian Motorcycle; an organisation founded back in 1901.
The legend - Burt Munro - set record speeds of 183.59 mph (294.5 km/h) at the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah - a record that remains valid today. The New Zealand motorcycle racer dedicated his life to the sport to become the very best in motorcycling. He spent 40 years modifying a bike to reach incredible speeds beyond it's original capability that set the astonishing record. His achievements have not gone unnoticed with the Clifton Club Indian instrument paying tribute to the sporting icon; a design that captures the spirit of both Burt Munro and the Indian Motorcycle Company.
George Hendee and Oscar Hedstrom, the founders of Indian Motorcycle have always been the addicted to speed. Their fascination began with bicycle racing, which developed when the first gasoline engines appeared and they imagined the thrill of mounting these to bike frames. The pioneers took the concept and pushed the boundaries, continually breaking speed records, which the company became recognised for. The pairing of Indian Motorcycle and Baume & Mercier is the perfect match, both sharing an untamed spirit that demonstrates innovative thinking in their respective fields.
The chronograph boasts stunning features that are dedicated to the extraordinary sportsman. First, being his lucky number 35, which leaps from dial in the form of the bright yellow seconds counter at 9 o'clock. His record speed number of 184 mph (later was corrected as the correct speed by his son) appears on the bezel with a tachymeter scale. Turn the 44mm stainless steel case to reveal the engraved Indian Headdress logo of the motorcycle company along with the 1967 number; a figure that represents the year Munro set his iconic record after all his hard work and the manufacture limitation. Fasten the striking timepiece with the deep red leather strap to remember the hue of his red aerodynamic shell that encased the Scout and the four decades of commitment to his dream.
The Burt Monro tribute piece is the perfect design for motor enthusiasts seeking the thrill of the race and a unique sense of style. It celebrates 50 years since he built the record-breaking motorbike through sheer determination and passion for the sport. With little money and time, the original bike that only reached 55 mph became a legendary speed machine.
