My surprise at coming across a new Australian watch brand was then further accelerated when I discovered that they are responsible for a new Australian milwatch as well. I shall write more at length about this new diver-oriented microbrand separately, but the Perth-based Haigh & Hastings have somehow managed to pull off something fascinating despite a February 2014 launch – to have been chosen by the Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) and the SAS Historical Foundation as the brand they have commissioned to produce a LE (1000 pieces) watch to commemorate the Golden Jubilee of the SASR.

Not only this, but Haigh & Hastings have also accumulated up a rather impressively long list of patnerships in a very short period of time, ranging from sporting teams to a partnership with the Global Trestle Group Foundation, which supports women entrepeneurs in emerging economies.

With a T.E. Lawrence inspired brand tagline referencing “dangerous men” (dreamers, not armed men), this SASR limited edition is an adaptation of the brand’s M2 Diver with a blue bezel, with the addition of a caseback design noting the 50 year commemoration, and coming in a box with an SASR badge and certificate of authenticity.

The basic M2 model measures 44mm of stainless steel with a uni-directional bezel, SuperLuminova hands and hour/ minute indices, uses an NH35A movement, has a (quick set) date, 300m water resistance, and weighs around the 130g mark.

This commemorative military watch is available for $600 exclusively through the SAS Historical Foundation. Email them at info@australiansas.com if you are interested in getting one.

Categories: Military watches, News, watches