Bamford x Thomas Pink GMT Watch Review
The Bamford x Thomas Pink GMT unites the creativity of George Bamford with that of the luxury shirtmaker, Thomas Pink. The model, available in two dial variants, features a GMT function and includes the eponymous pale thulian accents that have become synonymous with the Jermyn Street House.
AMG – customisation
In 1967, Hans Werner Aufrecht and Erhard Melcher formed AMG, a company which specialised in transforming road-going Mercedes models into fire-breathing race cars. In the early 70s, having upgraded the performance of numerous cars, the business evolved into a customisation specialist. This allowed clients to upgrade engines and suspension settings, as well as allowing them to personalise the bodywork and interior of their cars, satisfying the whims of the most demanding clients.
With time, AMG transitioned from being an automotive maverick to making cars you could purchase and maintain via your local Mercedes-Benz dealership. In 1999, Mercedes-Benz acquired a stake in AMG before taking over the company in its entirety in 2005. Today, AMG is widely known for creating high-performance vehicles, often endued with an array of interior and exterior upgrades.
Bamford Watch Department
George Bamford reminds me of AMG. Initially, he customised off-the-peg wristwatches, adding his own take on horological style, but over the years he has also fostered close relationships with several watch companies, crafting dual-branded timepieces that are often sold via authorised retailers. His portfolio includes creations made for Bulgari, Chopard, Girard-Perregaux, TAG Heuer, Zenith, et al. His playful use of colour, graphics, materials and textures has led to the British gentleman attracting much attention from the media and, by default, his label has gained brand awareness.
Thomas Pink
Now, George Bamford has collaborated with Thomas Pink, the legendary shirtmaker, located at 106 Jermyn Steet, London, creating a highly stylish timepiece worthy of the finest sartorial ensemble.
Bamford GMT
The Swiss made watch, the aptly named Bamford x Thomas Pink GMT, is offered in two dial variants, black or white. The hour and minute hands are straight, truncated and presented in white or black depending on the dial colour selected. The stark contrast augments readability, while the crisp hour markings also impart meaning free of ambiguity.
A date aperture is positioned at 3 o’clock, framed with a fine line. Upholding horological etiquette, the date disc on both references matches the colour of the dial. Employing one disc for both variants would have been cheaper, but I suspect Mr Bamford, clearly a perfectionist, would not countenance such penny-pinching.
The central sweep seconds hand is presented in pink, a respectful nod to the prestigious shirtmaker. The hue is also repeated again on the GMT hand, a feature that allows the wearer to display the ‘home time’ while simultaneously viewing the ‘local time’ with the dominant hour and minute hands. The GMT hand collaborates with a 24-hour track located on the inner bezel or flange, a useful feature that should mitigate the risk of phoning home at an inopportune moment. A pink triangular index, again positioned on the internal bezel, denotes the midnight hour. The internal bezel can be rotated using the dedicated crown at 10 o’clock. The ‘Bamford’ nomen sits below noon with the ‘Pink’ branding positioned in the lower portion of the dial, just above 6 o’clock.
Titanium cushion-shaped case
Housed in a cushion-shaped case, measuring 40 mm in diameter, the scale of the Bamford x Thomas Pink GMT should suit the majority of wrists. Interestingly, George Bamford has selected titanium for the case. This lightweight material is strong, corrosion-resistant and hypoallergenic.
Sellita SW330-2
At the heart of the watch, ticks a Sellita SW330-2 automatic movement. Assuming the mainspring is fully wound, the watch will run autonomously for 56 hours. The SW330-2 promises to be reliable, accurate and simple to service.
Interchangeable strap
As if to seal the deal, the Bamford x Thomas Pink GMT comes with two straps, one in black fabric and an additional strap in black rubber. The straps are interchangeable with simple catches to the rear, facilitating an exchange without the need for tools or undue effort. Moreover, Bamford also offers different-coloured straps should you wish to personalise your watch. But then, what would you expect from George, a man who has dedicated his life to personalisation?
Bamford x Thomas Pink GMT
George Bamford has tastefully incorporated pink accents without making the composition appear outré or unseemly. On the contrary, the pink tones contribute to the model’s handsome mien and serve to enhance the overall legibility of the dial. Considering this watch costs just £1,700 it proffers much, including a GMT function with an inner rotational bezel. Indeed, the impressive specification of this watch and its notable quality-price ratio is worthy of mention. Quite simply, the Bamford x Thomas Pink GMT, with only 60 pieces available, proves a refreshing, egalitarian take on the notion of exclusivity.
Further reading
https://www.bamfordwatchdepartment.com/
Technical specification
- Model: Bamford x Thomas Pink GMT
- Case: titanium, diameter 40 mm, height 11.7 mm, water resistance 10 ATM (100 m), sapphire crystal to front and solid case back
- Functions: hours, minutes, centre seconds, date, GMT
- Movement: Sellita SW330-2, automatic movement, frequency 28,800 vph (4 Hz), 25 jewels, power reserve 56 hours
- Strap: black fabric strap. Includes an additional black rubber strap
- Price: £1,700 (RRP as of 7.3.2023)
- Limited Edition: 30 pieces (black dial) + 30 pieces (white dial)