The SE's are in production...

[Alt1tude]

Photos just in from Bremont of the SEs as they start to enter the production line!

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii229/piersberry/image-2.jpeg

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii229/piersberry/Alt1.jpeg

not long now for the lucky few who have ordered one of these

[G-F]

Are those the DLC cases in the backgroung?

It's actually quite cool to know that I'm looking at my next watch being produced! :)

[Alt1tude]

they are DLC but they look like Chrono / B2 cases to me.

[Jim]

Any news in what the watch is coming with piers? Tool? Leather wallet etc.?

[Alt1tude]

Any news in what the watch is coming with piers? Tool? Leather wallet etc.?

I believe it will be the standard Bremont Wallet, Tool / Manuals etc and additional canvas strap.

[GMYGMT]

Any new photos of the SE vs the anthracite dial of the Alt1-C?

I'd love to see dial comparisons...Thanks.

[Andyg156]

Getting excited now, can't wait to see how the DLC is going to look.

[Bc321]

Any news on when the first ALT1TUDE SE watches will be finished and shipped out?

[Alt1tude]

Any news on when the first ALT1TUDE SE watches will be finished and shipped out?

For the people who have confirmed which case / strap variations they want, Bremont will be collecting final payments w/c 19th August and the first batch will be sent out later that week...

[Bravo73]

I plan on asking Emma if it would be possible to pick mine up from the factory. I also know that Bremont are happy to arrange factory tours. I'm hoping that I might be able to 'kill the two birds with the one stone'.

Before I ask Emma/Bremont formally, would anybody else be up for joining me for the day?

[Jim]

Potentially, yes.

[Sunray02]

I too would be interested - depends on dates. It would be nice to have a group visit though!

[G-F]

I would go if I wasn't in Canada. Sweet idea. I hope it happens.

[Andyg156]

For me a big No, unfortunately I will be working abroad by the expected date. On a up side, tax free I hope:-)

[Bc321]

I would love to..... but my flight from the US would probably cost as much as the down payment for the watch! I expect pictures to be taken and posted though if this happen so I can join in "virtually".

[GMYGMT]

I would love to..... but my flight from the US would probably cost as much as the down payment for the watch! I expect pictures to be taken and posted though if this happen so I can join in "virtually".

I'm with you...I'm also in the US and it won't be easy for me to make it over there, but I wish you guys great fun and excitement collecting the watch in person if this gathering happens!

[chipbutty55]

Not long now people :cool:

Any more pics Piers, maybe of a DLC one?

[Andyg156]

I'm surprised that 3 are still available. Looking forward to see first pics of the DLC variant

[Sunray02]

In view of the small number being produced I too am surprised that 3 remain unsold. Noticed today that my local AD still has a Victory in the window at 12K, this supports my earlier contention that the market for Bremont watches, especially SE's, is a limited one.

Gavin

[Jim]

Anyone had a call yet?

[chipbutty55]

Anyone had a call yet?

Nothing as yet here.....

[Alt1tude]

I'll check in today as I thought these were meant to be going out this week

[Jim]

Thanks piers :)

[Alt1tude]

Not heard anything yet

[Bc321]

I spoke to Emma today via email and she said it was still several weeks out for delivery....

[Jim]

Gutted! Not good news :(

[Sunray02]

Jim - it would not surprise me to find that we have been gazumped by a third party, doubtless some significant military order. I know we are all biting our nails in eagre anticipation - mine are down to the quick already! Patience however is what is needed now safe in the knowledge that we will have something very special at the end of the day!

Gavin

[Alt1tude]

I've heard there is a quality issue with the rotor which are having to be re-coated / replaced which isn't great news - not sure on timescales but hopefully they'll have it sorted soon - I'll try and find out more as it happens but sorry everyone for having to continue to wait for their SE to be delivered!

[Andyg156]

Am I the only one constantly checking their emails, on the off chance that Bremont are ready to take my final payment, or an update on currently situation and expected delivery date!

[Sunray02]

I have no doubt they will contact us when they are good and ready, I suspect they have other fish to fry at present. Our patience will be rewarded in heaven if not on this earth!!

[Sunray02]

Am I the only one constantly checking their emails, on the off chance that Bremont are ready to take my final payment, or an update on currently situation and expected delivery date!

Having slept on matters overnight I admit my original reply was more humorous than helpful!! I fail to see however why it should always fall to Piers to stick his neck out for us so I guess it's my turn to chase them up! I will get back with any response!


Gavin

[Alt1tude]

Having slept on matters overnight I admit my original reply was more humorous than helpful!! I fail to see however why it should always fall to Piers to stick his neck out for us so I guess it's my turn to chase them up! I will get back with any response!


Gavin

it's no worry I hope they'll get the rotors back soon enough ready to despatch!

[Sunray02]

I tried to phone to Emma Smith early this morning, she was busy at the time and has yet to return my call, will keep you posted!

Gavin

[Andyg156]

Cheers, I think I missed the humour Gavin as too busy sunbathing in Lebanon :-)

[Sunray02]

If you are 'sunbathing in Lebanon', I'm twiddling my thumbs here in Cheltenham!!

Emma Smith did not return my call. I think it would be counterproductive if too many of us started to wind them up at this stage, I will send her an email tomorrow asking for an update on delivery. I will be back home a little later tomorrow evening but will forward on any reply - if it's not satisfactory we can discuss our next move. Like Piers I'm hoping they have the matter in hand.

Gavin

[chipbutty55]

Thanks for trying!!
I'm sure they're on top of it and will have them produced as soon as they can and up to their usual high standards. I would definitely rather wait and have them done right than rush to get it on my wrist and find problems after delivery :D

[Andyg156]

Chippy butty exactly, however both my previous purchases have both gone back for remedial work. Yes they have been actioned immediately/no fuss/great customer and after sales service. I was just hoping this third purchase was going to go through smoothly.

[Sunray02]

Thanks for trying!!
I'm sure they're on top of it and will have them produced as soon as they can and up to their usual high standards. I would definitely rather wait and have them done right than rush to get it on my wrist and find problems after delivery :D

Found a reply from Emma on my return home, she apologises for the delay and will advise Piers of the delivery date as soon as she can, clearly not in the immediate future :-( Having been taught to be cautious my inclination is to go with chipbutty55 on this one, I do not think putting pressure on them will achieve much, what do others think? On the other hand I am a bit suspicious of the alleged QC problem - I think it is more likely that the 22 Swindon Cub Scout troop have placed a big order for LE S500's with Bear Grylls picture on the watch face, Akela is clearly not to be messed around with and Bremont have put our smaller order on the back burner as a consequence. The S500 will be ideal for the lads annual canoe camp in the Wye Valley!!

Yours in eager anticipation,

Gavin

[Andyg156]

You think!! As for contacting Bremont on this, I have always thought and looked upon Piers being our POC.

[Sunray02]

I have no argument with you on that point! If Piers, as the prime mover on this project, feels he can influence events at Henley more power to his elbow I say. I was simply agreeing with chipbutty55 that a rushed job is not in our best interests.

Gavin

[Jim]

Disappointing to say the least. Perhaps an extra strap thrown in for our wait would even things out a bit :-D

[Jim]

Thinking about it, that's really not too much to ask, they have had the deposit sine the beginning of the year, and we're now running in to a four month delay...

[Sunray02]

Does not look good Jim I agree with you there, Emma's reply to me was very open ended. Another new watch on Bremont Military this evening for the A10 squadrons - the Bremont Warthog perhaps?

[G-F]

Well, call me an optimist, but the simple fact that Bremont acknowledged to make us a bespoke watch was already amazing, they, on top of that, gave us a unique dial color, unique dial configuration, the forum/Bremont unofficial logo (Felix), clear back and black rotor and the MB1 second hand! This SE is choke full of special details and unique/rare features.

When you think about it, the highly sought after MB1.5, was a regular Bremont MB2 with a MB1 second hand, that's it. I think we struck an amazing deal and design with Bremont and if they got some special orders in, well great for them. I don't mind being put on the back burner as I feel we were given a seriously interesting watch. Though I want to say that I also totally believe the QC issue. It happens all the time. I just got the shipping order from LumTec on my M54 watch, about a year late from the first expected release date.

Another not so funny story is that I put a deposit on a Panerai 386 about three years ago. Then about a year later, the AD lost the Panerai listing so I lost my spot (I was #1 on his waiting list). All other AD had long waiting lists so I just gave up. Fast forward to today, the 386 is still not released. I didn't follow the whole saga, but I think the model 386 will never be produced. Stuff happens sometimes you know.

Good things come to those who can wait. :)

[Andyg156]

I don't really understand why a military SE will impact drastically our delivery date. I think my SE arrived on time ish and took 8-10mths (don't quote as dates aren't easily at hand), so I would hope and expect apart from the issue we are aware, we should be OK. Only concern is, is the item sourced or in house produced, if the later shouldn't be too long.But if a supplier, we may be a little way down production table :[

[Andyg156]

Well, call me an optimist, but the simple fact that Bremont acknowledged to make us a bespoke watch was already amazing, they, on top of that, gave us a unique dial color, unique dial configuration, the forum/Bremont unofficial logo (Felix), clear back and black rotor and the MB1 second hand! This SE is choke full of special details and unique/rare features.

When you think about it, the highly sought after MB1.5, was a regular Bremont MB2 with a MB1 second hand, that's it. I think we struck an amazing deal and design with Bremont and if they got some special orders in, well great for them. I don't mind being put on the back burner as I feel we were given a seriously interesting watch. Though I want to say that I also totally believe the QC issue. It happens all the time. I just got the shipping order from LumTec on my M54 watch, about a year late from the first expected release date.

Another not so funny story is that I put a deposit on a Panerai 386 about three years ago. Then about a year later, the AD lost the Panerai listing so I lost my spot (I was #1 on his waiting list). All other AD had long waiting lists so I just gave up. Fast forward to today, the 386 is still not released. I didn't follow the whole saga, but I think the model 386 will never be produced. Stuff happens sometimes you know.

Good things come to those who can wait. :)

To be fair only bespoke item is the dial and we know that has been produced, the rest is all items previously used!

[jwalker9]

All in time, gentlemen! Granted, you all have been waiting several months now, but there's no reason to think that the folks at Bremont are dragging their heels on our project. The rotors obviously have an issue that needs addressed before sending out. Remember that even worse than waiting on the SE's initial arrival, would be to have to send it back for repair and wait even longer after receiving it and finding faults.
I don't think that several forum purchasers continuously emailing Bremont will get the watches in hands any sooner. Piers is the point man behind the project and will continue to ensure delivery as soon as its possible. In the meantime, If anyone receives messages from Bremont, please pass along here!
The watch will be worth the wait!
Cheers guys,

Jeremy

[Sunray02]

Jeremy, I was not so much suggesting that people are dragging their feet rather that demand exceeds manufacturing capacity. Bremont has been a fantastic success story and military SE sales have played an important role here. I feel we got in just at the right time, much later and we might well have faced extended lead times!

Gavin

[chipbutty55]

For me the important thing is not to let the shine be taken off what will be an awesome, bespoke, low edition piece.
Looking on the bright side of further delay, it will be an amazing gift to yourself to put under the Christmas tree ;)

[Baggie68]

I may be a little offside with others on this but at the end of the day this is a commercial transaction.

Bremont is a great british company making great timepieces, however, like a number of companies that experiance rapid growth sometimes the important things can start to be missed.

At the moment the only thing that has been delivered is a failure to delivery on a promise, ha ho...welcome to customer service in 2013!

Still can wait to get the watch!:rolleyes:

[Alt1tude]

Okay guys I feel your pain! I'm in contact with Emma at least 2-3 times a week on this and I know that as soon as we get some news then you'll all be the first to know!

I believe that projects are booked in a time slot and I suspect until we get the rotors back another slot cannot be booked.

@Sunray - I can't see other military editions having priority over the SE most of the stuff posted on FB has been in development long before the SE even came about and quite often they can't talk about it until the watches are made.

Short of me posting out the SE pro type for someone to lend I can't really help much more at the moment so apologies and hopefully good news to come very soon!

[Jim]

Shall I pm you my address? ;-)

[Baggie68]

Hi Piers

I didn't realise you were having to contact Bremont 2-3 times a week, I would be equally or even more frustrated with that situation. So thank you for that!

I'm surprised that Bremont cannot commit to a "realistic" date or week for delivery so close to the end of production.

Let's hope that we get an update soon...

[Sunray02]

Hi Piers - has anyone shown any recent interest in the (3?) unsold watches??

Gavin

[Alt1tude]

... Okay some news, to try and put some frustrations at ease!

Firstly, pretty much all of the SEs are now built. Bremont are only waiting on a handful of rotors which have been sent to the coating company to be coated again.

Most built watches are being tested as it isn't a case of waiting and waiting.

Bremont have been told that the rotors will be back with them w/c 16th September, so that is when the watches are planned to be shipped now. It is a small set back but understandable I think and can only apologies for the delay that has happened. Bremont want to send all 28 watches out in one batch I assume the remaining two may go quickly after or may end up over in the boutique.

I queried the whole miitary watches taking priority and as I mentioned they aren't any more important than the SE and the watches you see photographed on FB etc where planned 12 months ago. This project has only been running officially since March (Okay speculation and planning before then was happening) but 6 months from conception to delivery I think is quite impressive in the watch world!

Now I know Emma and her team have been chasing every day for the parts, so I want to let them get on with finalising it for the September date!!

And if that doesn't please you... Here's some photos of the watches being made that were taken today.... :) :) :)

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii229/piersberry/DLC.jpeg

http://i265.photobucket.com/albums/ii229/piersberry/image-3.jpeg

Have a great weekend all!!

[Jim]

Great work piers, I hope you get to keep the prototype for your efforts.

[chipbutty55]

Awesome!! First shots too of the DLC in the wild.... :D

[Bc321]

Thank you for the update!!!! Very excited to see the DLC as well..... now I want to see it on my wrist!

[Baggie68]

That is great news, great picture thanks:D!

[Sunray02]

Awesome!! First shots too of the DLC in the wild.... :D

Looks as if the DLC was an excellent call - I'm for SS but it's a win win situation all round!

Gavin

[G-F]

It may be my screen, but the barrel on the DLCs look black. Are they anthracite or black?

[jwalker9]

The DLC version is bad ass! A win-win for both versions! Drool :p

[jwalker9]

Only 1 left!

[G-F]

Got the final email on friday. Made the final payment with Bremont and they confirmed my watch should be sent through FedEx on monday. In my case, probably looking at a late next week or early following week delivery. You guys located in UK should be able to get your watch next week, maybe even get them directly at the head office.

Can't wait to get mine!

[chipbutty55]

I have also paid and was told to expect delivery on Tuesday!! :cool:

[Bc321]

Cant wait to see some of the pics.... I am sure it will take a little bit more to get mine since I am in the US.

[Alt1tude]

Only 1 left!

Actually there are two remaining. the last guy didn't get back to me at all regarding the order.

[Bravo73]

I plan on asking Emma if it would be possible to pick mine up from the factory. I also know that Bremont are happy to arrange factory tours. I'm hoping that I might be able to 'kill the two birds with the one stone'.

Before I ask Emma/Bremont formally, would anybody else be up for joining me for the day?

Apologies to everyone for the delayed follow up to this but, unfortunately, it turned out to be a non-starter. I asked Emma about a factory visit & collection but due to the space and numbers involved, she couldn't accommodate more than one or two at a time. There was the option of possibly organising an evening at the Mayfair boutique but due to a couple of other issues, I'm guessing that that moment has now passed.

Sorry everyone.

[garybull]

Awesome!, great thread! :)