Bremont Terra Nova Jumping Hour Bronze: A Technical and Visual Masterpiece?
£4900 - Limited to 100 pieces
The Bremont Terra Nova Jumping Hour Bronze represents a unique chapter in the British brand’s growing portfolio of mechanical timepieces. Combining military-inspired durability with a distinctive dial layout, this limited-edition model is designed for those who appreciate functional complications and character-rich materials.
As part of Bremont’s Terra Nova collection – which nods to early 20th-century polar exploration – this piece blends heritage aesthetics with modern engineering. Its standout feature? A jumping hour complication, rarely seen in tool watches and even more rarely executed with this level of restraint.
Credit - Bremont
Design and Case
The watch is constructed from marine-grade bronze, a material chosen for both its ruggedness and ability to develop a natural patina over time. This ensures each piece will wear and age uniquely, reflecting the habits and environments of its owner. Measuring 42.5mm in diameter and 12.9mm thick, it wears with a noticeable but balanced presence on the wrist.
The dial is sandblasted matte black, offering excellent contrast and legibility. Bronze numerals and markers complement the case, maintaining visual cohesion throughout the design. A domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating protects the dial and provides a slight vintage profile.
Dial Layout and Functionality
What sets this watch apart mechanically is the jumping hour complication, displayed in an aperture at 12 o’clock. Rather than using a traditional hour hand, the hour numeral "jumps" to the next at the top of each hour. The minutes are tracked by a central hand, while the small seconds sub-dial is placed at 6 o’clock.
This layout is both minimal and functional, offering clear time reading once the format becomes familiar. The jumping hour is not just a visual feature — it’s a demonstration of refined watchmaking, rarely seen in watches designed for exploration.
Credit - Bremont
Movement and Performance
Inside, the watch houses the Bremont BC634AH movement, a modified self-winding movement with a 42-hour power reserve. While the base calibre is derived from an ETA architecture, Bremont has adapted it to accommodate the jumping hour complication. The movement is visible through a display caseback, uncommon in bronze watches and a welcome touch for those interested in mechanical detail.
The timepiece offers 100 metres of water resistance, suitable for outdoor activities and everyday wear, though it’s not intended as a dive watch. The bronze case is supported by a soft nubuck leather strap, which matches the watch's vintage-inspired character.
The Specs
Movement:
BC634AH movement
29 Jewels
Glucydur balance wheel
Anachron balance spring
Nivaflex mainspring
28,800 bph (4Hz)
56-hour power reserve
Functions:
Hour window at 12 O'clock
Minute window at 6 O'clock
Central running small seconds window
Case:
Satin and polished two-piece Cupro-Aluminium bronze case
Push-in crown
Case Diameter: 38mm
Case Length: 44mm
Case Depth: 9.1mm
Lug Width: 20mm
Case back:
PVD bronze-coloured stainless steel case back.
Dial & Hands:
Closed-case design displaying three windows for hour, minute, and seconds
Brown printed numerals on hour and minute discs
Compass design black running small seconds hand
Crystal:
Three individual sapphire crystals on the hour, minute, and second window openings
Water Resistance:
3 ATM, 30 metres.
Strap:
Cupro-Aluminium bronze quick release bracelet with butterfly clasp.
Credit - Bremont
Conclusion and Score
The Bremont Terra Nova Jumping Hour Bronze is a distinctive offering in the luxury tool watch category. It combines high-grade materials, a thoughtfully executed complication, and a strong visual identity rooted in British exploration heritage. While the jumping hour layout may require some adjustment for those used to conventional timekeeping formats, it becomes intuitive with use.
Its price point places it firmly in the premium category, but the limited production and individuality of the patina process add collectibility and character.
Final Score: 8.5/10
Pros:
Unique jumping hour complication
High-quality bronze case with evolving patina
Clean, legible layout with excellent finishing
Cons:
Dial format may take time to get used to
Premium pricing limits accessibility
Limited to 100 pieces
