Breitling

Breitling is renowned for its tool watches, such as the Navitimer for pilots and the Superocean for divers. Since its introduction in 1957, the Superocean collection has become an emblematic line in the watchmaking world, appreciated for its robustness, water resistance, excellent legibility, and precision. These qualities make it an ideal timepiece for an operational commission.

The present watch is a highly special edition of the Superocean Heritage made for London’s Metropolitan Police Specialist Firearms Command (SCO19/MO19), the Met’s elite armed capability and a unit closely associated with the “Trojan” call-sign used for Armed Response Vehicle teams. Produced in a strictly limited series of 40 examples, individually numbered; this watch is No. 09/40.

The black dial features a Trojan helmet, the Roman numerals “XIX” (a reference to the unit designation), and a yellow “19” accent to the chapter ring, understood as a nod to internal vehicle identifiers. The familiar Superocean Heritage layout remains intact with luminous baton markers, arrow hands and a date at 6 o’clock.

On the back, it reads like a career record. Alongside the engraved “Specialist Firearms Command”, the case back is further inscribed with abbreviated postings ARV, TST, NFI, CP, reflecting specialist roles held across the issuing officer’s service. An individual service identifier is present but is intentionally not shown. Most notably, the watch remains with the actively serving officer to whom these inscriptions pertain.

Specialist Firearms Command officers are deployed to the most serious armed incidents in London and form an important part of the capital’s counter-terrorism response. The present example is offered from a serving member whose career includes participation in the Metropolitan Police response to the multiple London Bombings, Westminster Bridge & London Bridge terror attacks. All contributing a particular weight to the watch’s context.

Powered by the Breitling B20 calibre, a self-winding movement offering a 70-hour power reserve and accompanied by Breitling presentation box and papers. The watch is further sold with a commemorative coin stating, “Operation London Bridge 1926–2022”, marking the nationally coordinated operation enacted following the death of Queen Elizabeth II, of which the owner participated in, together with Specialist Firearms Command patch. An exclusive and meaningful creation, this limited edition pays tribute to the courage and dedication of those who risk their lives to protect others.