When it’s an uncommon and distinctive timepiece that we’re on the hunt for, it’s REC Watches which can be invariably our first port of name right here at Coolector HQ and it’s due to extraordinary releases like this Habu SR-71 Blackbird Watch that that is the case. In the event you’re somebody who appreciates each aviation historical past and distinctive craftsmanship, the REC Habu SR-71 Blackbird Watch is a timepiece that deserves your full consideration. This restricted version, Swiss-made marvel isn’t simply one other watch—it’s a bit of historical past, meticulously crafted from the legendary SR-71 Blackbird plane, particularly no. 61-7956, which holds the document for probably the most profitable flights and flight hours of any SR-71.
Out there for pre-ordering now (with 20% off the ultimate retail value) you may get your arms on the REC Habu SR-71 Blackbird Look ahead to simply £1436 proper now. Encased in a modern and strong titanium tonneau case, the Habu watch is a real homage to the SR-71 Blackbird’s legacy. The case, made out of grade 2 titanium, measures a snug 40mm in diameter and simply 12.3mm in top, making it each light-weight and extremely wearable. Regardless of its vital historic roots, the watch stays fashionable and understated, a testomony to the subtle design sensibilities of REC.
One of the placing options of the Habu is its dial, which is crafted from the titanium alloys of the plane’s interior engine nacelle exhaust ejectors, referred to as “turkey feathers.” This isn’t only a gimmick; it’s a bit of the very machine that helped push the boundaries of human functionality. The highest dial takes inspiration from the Blackbird’s exhaust flaps, whereas the format itself is harking back to the plane’s cockpit gauges. At 6 o’clock, the ability reserve indicator attracts design cues from the Triethylborane (TEB) throttle administration system, essential for ignition on the Blackbird’s excessive operational speeds and altitudes.
The craftsmanship extends to the small print after which some. The brushed hour and minute arms are designed to imitate the silhouette of the SR-71 Blackbird from above, whereas the seconds hand incorporates a black-to-red fade, subtly referencing the plane’s iconic afterburner glow. The arms and double-raised indices are full of Swiss Tremendous-LumiNova, making certain visibility in all lighting situations.
Below the hood, the Habu is powered by the Swiss-made Sellita SW270-1 M motion. This handbook winding calibre incorporates a skeletonized prepare wheel bridge and a black PVD-coated motion, seen by way of the exhibition caseback. With a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz) and a 45-hour energy reserve, this motion is as dependable as it’s exact, embodying the spirit of the SR-71 in each tick.
The eye to element continues with the watch’s crown and guard, that are designed to resemble the Blackbird’s twin engine inlet cones. This considerate design ensures not solely aesthetic concord but in addition sensible performance, with a deep sample that makes setting the time a breeze. The curved sapphire crystal on prime of the case, full with three layers of anti-reflective coating, ensures readability from each angle.
Including to the Habu’s strong design is the black and purple FKM double injection rubber strap. This strap isn’t nearly consolation; it incorporates a woven Kevlar inlay and purple stripes that pay homage to the “no step” zones on the SR-71’s fuselage, including one other layer of connection to the legendary plane.
The REC Habu SR-71 Blackbird Watch is greater than only a timepiece—it’s a wearable tribute to one of many best engineering feats in aviation historical past. Whether or not you’re an aviation fanatic, a lover of fantastic watches, or just somebody who appreciates the fusion of heritage and fashionable design, the Habu is a timepiece that transcends the extraordinary. With solely 100 items obtainable worldwide, it’s a uncommon alternative to personal a bit of historical past, reimagined for the wrist.
Leo is the proprietor of The Coolector and writes concerning the stuff he loves. And a few stuff that he merely likes.