AVI-8 has partnered with Laguna’s Spitfire Legacy (LSL) to create a Spitfire chronograph timepiece limited to just 450 pieces commemorating the famous 303 Squadron and support the LSL’s work to restore Spitfire P8331 to airworthy condition.
This iconic aircraft steeped in history was last flown by Wing Commander Piotr Laguna, who led the 303 Squadron to become the most successful squadron during the Battle of Britain.
This timepiece aims to create a lasting recognition to the incredible contributions of the 18,000 Polish pilots and ground crew who courageously and skilfully protected Britain throughout WWII but were overlooked for the 1946 Victory March through
London.
In commemorating the 303 Squadron and the bravery of Piotr Laguna, the redesigned Spitfire Meca-Quartz Chronograph with unique details and features pays tribute to their incredible abilities and sacrifices during the Battle of Britain and throughout WWII.
A clean, symmetrical and highly legible twin-register dial layout inspired by details within the Spitfire’s instrument panel are complemented by pops of red and white, whilst a 303 Squadron badge has been stamped at the 9 o’clock subdial serving as a constant reminder of their bravery. Applied indexes are lathered in Swiss lume for great visibility in low-light conditions.
Measuring 42mm in diameter, the solid steel case and custom flowing pushers are drawn from Spitfire P8331’s iconic curved silhouette. Drawing further inspiration from the Spitfire’s body, micro detailing on the case sides are designed to recreate the panels on the aircraft being restored.
The limited edition timepiece is equipped with a reputable VK series Japanese meca-quartz movement featuring a flyback chronograph reset and 1/5 split second readout.
The watch comes with a comfortable, handcrafted genuine leather, vintage pilot-style 22mm strap with red and white cross-stitching and strap loops nodding to the incredible legacy of the 303 Squadron.
Uniquely numbered and limited to just 450 pieces, each timepiece comes packaged in a striking 303 Squadron inspired red and white nylon wrapped gift box. Priced at USD $285.
More details at AV-8 watches website.
Technical details
Model: AVI-8 Spitfire P8331 Laguna Chronograph Limited Edition
SUMATRA, Reference AV-4105-01
Case
Stainless steel case
Diameter: 42mm
Thickness: 12mm
Lug width: 22mm
Water resistance: 5 ATM/ 50m
Bulbous shaped crown
Stainless steel fixed bezel
Mineral lens with anti-reflective coating
Stainless steel case-back with engraved 303 Squadron logo
Dial
Multi-layered dial with Swiss luminous indexes and stamped 303 Squadron badge at 9 o’clock subdial
Swiss luminous applied indexes
Swiss luminous hands
Movement
M-SII-VK64-D6RDW
Japan quartz chronograph movement with date
Strap
Genuine leather strap with steel buckle
Available from
23rd June 2023
Recommended retail price
$285
More details at AV-8 watches website.
