Fears Brunswick 40.5 Jump Hour 'Ultimus'

A Farewell to the Brunswick Jump Hour

Fears has announced the retirement of its beloved Brunswick 40.5 Jump Hour with the release of the 'Ultimus' edition. This final iteration, a collaboration with UK-based content creator Andrew Morgan, is a fitting tribute to a watch that has become a modern classic. While the platform may be retired, its impact on the independent watch scene is undeniable.

The Ultimus Edition: A New Look

The Ultimus retains the familiar 40.5mm stainless steel case and the innovative JJ01 jumping hour module (built on a Sellita SW200 base) that have defined the series. What sets this edition apart is its dial. Previous versions featured a minimalist design with a small minutes track and a large hour aperture, leaving plenty of negative space. The Ultimus, however, exposes the rotating hour track beneath a sapphire crystal, with inactive hours partially obscured by the minute track. A black outer ring frames the dial, holding the Fears wordmark at 12 o'clock.

Lume and Legibility

The entire dial is now lumed, a departure from the dress-watch character of earlier models. This modern, avant-garde touch is complemented by a magnifier over the current hour, enhancing legibility and adding depth. The result is a Jump Hour that feels both contemporary and true to its roots.

Pricing and Availability

The Brunswick 40.5 Jump Hour 'Ultimus' is available for a one-week ordering window ending August 17, through Fears' website or their Bristol boutique. It retails for ,600 on a strap or ,900 on a bracelet.

The Heart of the Matter: The JJ01 Module

Some may question the price given the Sellita base, but the true innovation lies in the Christopher Ward-built JJ01 module. This module is also used in the Christopher Ward Bel Canto, which transforms a jump hour into a chiming complication. It represents real British watchmaking innovation and symbolizes the partnerships that fuel the UK's independent scene. The Brunswick Jump Hour and the Bel Canto are mechanical cousins, bound by this shared technology.

A Design That Transcends Trends

The Brunswick Jump Hour's design has proven remarkably adaptable, not only in collaborations but also through Fears' bespoke service. This service allows collectors to create unique pieces at an approachable price point, a rarity in the industry. The watch's clean lines and distinctive jumping hour display have made it a canvas for personal expression, with examples like Kat Shoulders' custom piece, matched to a sentimental car color.

As the Jump Hour retires, it leaves a legacy of creativity and innovation. Whether Fears will revisit the format remains to be seen, but the Ultimus serves as a perfect capstone to a chapter that has redefined modern British watchmaking.