William Wood is already such an established name in British watchmaking that it’s easy to forget that it’s actually a really young brand. Jonny Garrett only founded the firefighting-themed brand in 2017, meaning this year it’s celebrating its 5th anniversary. In honour of this milestone, they have created the limited edition Bronze Amethyst Anniversary Edition.
Structurally it’s similar to the Bronze Ruby limited edition from last year. The new watch has the same 41mm bronze case, produced from vintage firefighting gear, and also houses the same movement. That movement is the Seiko NH35 automatic with 41-hour power reserve, sweep seconds, hours, minutes and a date function. Where the William Wood Bronze Amethyst Anniversary Edition shines is the dial.
And I really do mean “shines” because it’s been given a metallic plum violet colour that shimmers in the light. It’s designed to evoke imagery of amethyst crystals, the gemstone for the month in which William Wood was incorporated in 2017. It works well with the vintage firefighting checks and chime shaped seconds hand.
The only thing that could improve it is if the dial was actually made from the semi-precious stone. But if this watch proves anything it’s that we need more purple watches in the industry, I love its rich deepness. The same shade of amethyst is also used on the watch’s bezel.
Aside from the stunning colouration, there are some additional details that point to this watch being an anniversary edition. Most notably the years “2017-2022” have been inscribed below the central hand stack, the period over which the brand has sold over 3,000 watches in 50 countries. Also, instead of the typical circular index at 5 o’clock, the number has been given as an Arabic numeral.
The celebration continues on the individually numbered caseback, which is a decorative exhibition piece. By which I mean there’s a large depiction of an amethyst flame with a cut out of the number 5 that allows you to glimpse the Seiko movement beneath. A fitting homage to the brand’s connection to firefighting. In fact, over the course of its 5 years, William Wood has donated over £75,000 to firefighting charities internationally.
Only 55 Bronze Amethyst Anniversary Editions will be available, which makes sense because 55 is 5 twice. While that does mean availability is limited, it doesn’t stop it from being accessible at £955. If you’re a fan of anniversary edition watches, this is definitely one to consider.
Price & Specs:
Model: William Wood Bronze Amethyst Anniversary Edition
Case/Dial: 41mm diameter x 16mm height, metallic shimmer “Amethyst” violet coloured dial
Water resistance: 100m (10 bar)
Movement: Seiko NH35 calibre, automatic, 24 jewels
Frequency: 21,600 vph (3 Hz)
Power reserve: 41h
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, date
Strap: Fire Hose Strap using upcycled fire hose rubber or Fire Kit textile strap
Price/availability: £955, limited to 55 pieces
More details at William Wood.
