Swiss watchmaker Breitling and British motorcycle brand Triumph, recently announced a long-term partnership and are gearing up for a limited-edition watch and a customized motorcycle to be revealed in early 2022.

Previously, Breitling forged a partnership with Norton, but as many bike fans know, the Norton revival proved to be a rather dodgy financial racket in the end, which left shareholders, workers and Norton bike buyers out of pocket.

Keen to move on, even though Norton is now Indian owned and Stuart Garner has departed, Breitling is opting for the safety of teaming up with Triumph, which mainly manufactures in Thailand but is a British brand nevertheless.

Here’s the press blurb;

Breitling has played a truly pioneering role in the development of the modern chronograph. And partner Triumph has passionately helped shape the evolution of the motorcycle. The two makers share a bold and original design philosophy and a flair for precision craftsmanship.

For this exciting partnership, the two brands will collaborate on two special editions: a watch and a motorcycle, to be revealed in early 2022.

“This is where substance meets original styling. You can expect purposeful engineering paired with modern retro designs,” says Breitling CEO Georges Kern. “But, however you want to describe it, there’ll be a huge sense of adventure and discovery.”

Triumph Motorcycles CEO Nick Bloor welcomes this unique chance to collaborate with another established heritage brand. “Like Breitling, we’re committed to providing the flawless handling and incredible finishes that give our community an incomparable experience.”

Their journey has already begun. Triumph Thruxton RS motorcycles – the original modern café racer – are now on display in top Breitling boutiques around the world. Drop by and find inspiration while waiting for next year’s unveilings.

Your NWC scribe is a biker of course, so I’d be producing a special cafe racer/Bobber called the Triumph Speed Twin Avenger, which marries up two brand names nicely. However, it is possible that the old Hillman Avenger name is still trademark protected for automotive use – maybe you know?

Dial colours for the matching Breitling watch? Traditional Triumph Amaranth Red, a two-tone Bonneville Blue/White or Baja Orange and Black.

Resist the temptation to make a green watch. Just saying.