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The Bremont MBII is described as an anti-shock pilot’s watch because its movement is mounted inside the case on a flexible ring intended to reduce shocks transmitted to the mechanism. That is a shock-isolation design, not a promise that the watch is shockproof or immune to damage. Bremont says MB prototypes underwent demanding tests, while an independent reviewer has published wearing impressions of a loaned MBII; no hands-on testing is claimed here.
What “anti-shock” means on the MBII
Bremont’s explanation centers on a flexible ring connecting the movement and mechanism to the inner case. The ring allows controlled movement within the outer case, with the aim of absorbing or reducing shocks before they reach the movement. Bremont also describes a soft-iron inner case as a shield against magnetic fields on applicable models. These are manufacturer explanations of the design, not evidence that an MBII cannot be damaged by a hard impact or magnetism. Bremont’s account of the Martin-Baker watches
“Anti-shock” is therefore best read as a construction feature intended to improve resistance to shock, rather than a guarantee of indestructibility. Bremont’s own care guidance still advises owners to avoid heavy shocks and strong magnets. Bremont watch instructions
What the MBII Black specification says
The figures below apply to the MBII Black listing on Bremont’s site; they should not be generalized to every MBII reference. The page also states that this version has retired from the catalogue. Bremont MBII Black
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- MOVEMENT Modified calibre 13 ¼''' BE-54AE automatic chronometer, 25 jewels, Glucydur balance, Anachron balance spring, Nivaflex 1 mainspring, 28,800bph, 42 hour power reserve, GMT functionality. Bremont Boeing skeletonised decorated rotor.
- FUNCTIONS Hour, minute, second hands. Chronograph small counters with seconds, 30 minutes and 12 hours and 24H GMT hand with date at 4.5H.
- CASE Boeing aviation-grade Ti 6-4 titanium with bi-directional rotating bezel with Super-LumiNova. Bremont Trip-Tick construction with scratch resistant DLC treated case barrel. Case diameter 43mm, lug width 22mm.
- DIAL Metal dial with Super-LumiNova coated hands and numerals.
- Chronometer rated to ISO 3159 standard.
| Specification | MBII Black listing |
|---|---|
| Case | 43 mm hardened stainless steel or DLC Trip-Tick case |
| Movement | Modified BE-36AE automatic chronometer; 26 jewels; 28,800 beats per hour |
| Power reserve | 38 hours |
| Functions | Hours, minutes, seconds and date |
| Shock isolation | Patented anti-shock movement mount |
| Magnetic protection | Soft-iron inner Faraday cage on closed-back models |
| Bezel | Inner bi-directional Roto-Click bezel, operated by the crown at 4 o’clock |
| Other case detail | Aluminium barrel |
| Lug width | 22 mm |
The listing identifies the movement and case details for that particular version. If choosing a strap, confirm the lug width and attachment for the exact reference rather than assuming every MBII uses the Black model’s 22 mm measurement.
What Martin-Baker has to do with the watch
Martin-Baker says it approached Bremont in 2007 to develop an aviation watch that would undergo a testing programme comparable in rigor to that used for ejection seats. The collaboration also determines an important distinction between models: Martin-Baker says the MBI is reserved for pilots who have ejected using a Martin-Baker seat, while MBII and MBIII are available to all. Martin-Baker MB watches
Rank #2
- Modified calibre 13 1/4"' BE-50AE automatic chronometer, 28 jewels, Glucydur balance, Anachron balance spring, Nivaflex 1 mainspring, 28,800 bph, 42-hour power reserve, Bremont Boeing moulded and skeletonised decorated rotor.
- FUNCTIONS Hour/minute/second, date at 4.5H, chronograph small counters with seconds and 30 minutes.
- CASE Custom 465 Stainless Steel Bremont Trip-Tick construction with scratch resistant DLC treated case barrel. Case diameter 43mm, lug width 22mm.
- Metal dial with Super-LumiNova coated hands and numerals.
- Chronometer rated to ISO 3159 standard.
That eligibility rule belongs to the MBI, not the MBII. General buyers can consider an MBII or MBIII under Martin-Baker’s stated policy; an MBI requires the specified ejection-seat history.
What testing is reported—and what it does not prove
Bremont’s historical account describes tests performed on prototypes, including simulated altitude exposure to 100,000 feet for 60 minutes, salt-fog and humidity exposure intended to represent an aircraft-carrier tour, vibration testing, temperatures from −40°C to +40°C, and a crash-seat simulation above 18G at 42 feet per second. These are the company’s descriptions of prototype testing and simulations, not a universal consumer-watch certification or a guarantee that every production watch will survive any impact. Bremont’s account of the Martin-Baker watches
Rank #3
- MOVEMENT Modified calibre 13 ¼''' BE-54AE automatic chronometer, 25 jewels, Glucydur balance, Anachron balance spring, Nivaflex 1 mainspring, 28,800bph, 42 hour power reserve, GMT functionality. Bremont Boeing skeletonised decorated rotor.
- FUNCTIONS Hour, minute, second hands. Chronograph small counters with seconds, 30 minutes and 12 hours and 24H GMT hand with date at 4.5H.
- CASE Boeing aviation-grade Ti 6-4 titanium with bi-directional rotating bezel with Super-LumiNova. Bremont Trip-Tick construction with scratch resistant DLC treated case barrel. Case diameter 43mm, lug width 22mm.
- DIAL Metal dial with Super-LumiNova coated hands and numerals.
- Chronometer rated to ISO 3159 standard.
Martin-Baker’s page also describes the watch collaboration as an effort to withstand the same rigorous testing as its ejection-seat programme. These claims should be attributed to the companies: the testing history is not a test repeated for this article, and it does not establish a particular impact limit for an individual owner’s watch. Martin-Baker MB watches
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What an independent hands-on review adds
Ben Hodges’s Fratello article, published May 19, 2023, discloses that he spent time with a watch loaned by Ben Rexworthy. It reports impressions of that sample, including its heft, straps, white dial, color options and day-date display. Those are the reviewer’s observations of a specific loaned watch, not hands-on findings for this article and not necessarily specifications shared by every MBII reference. Fratello: Hands-On With The Bremont MBII Anti-Shock Pilot’s Watch
Rank #4
- As the official Timepiece partner of The Latin GRAMMY, Bulova has created the Latin GRAMMY Automatic watch, incorporating musical cues in its design.
- The distinct timepiece features an open heartbeat aperture and an exhibition case back, showcasing the fine 21-jewel Automatic movement with a 42-hour power reserve.
- Rose gold-tone stainless steel case with a black dial that is textured to resemble the guiro instrument with guiro scraper-shaped markers. Signature Latin GRAMMY red accents on the dial. Rose gold-tone bracelet with black link details reminiscent of piano keys.
- Metalized Domed Sapphire Crystal
- 30M Water Resistant and 3 Year Limited Warranty
Buying a retired MBII and caring for one
Bremont’s MBII Black page marks that version as retired from the catalogue. That does not establish whether a particular retailer has stock or whether a used example is available in a given region. Martin-Baker’s MB page lists MBII from £4,295 and MBIII GMT from £4,695, but those are page prices that may change; check the current listing, region and exact reference before treating either figure as a live offer. Martin-Baker MB watches
For an older or pre-owned watch, verify the reference, condition, seller and service history. Bremont’s manual recommends avoiding heavy shocks and strong magnets, rinsing with fresh water after salt-water exposure, and using a certified Bremont service agent. It recommends maintenance every three to five years; consult the latest guidance for the exact reference. Bremont watch instructions
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
