Without any doubt, Fabrice Pougez, the founder of MATWATCHES, achieved a media coup with the release of the Bruce Aeris official Chronograph. Indeed, this quartz chronograph was developed with Bruce Dickinson, the charismatic lead singer of one of the world's most famous bands: Iron Maiden. Yet the history behind this chronograph is very far from those juicy ambassadors' contracts signed with major watch brands. The chronograph is the outcome of the sincere friendship between the two men who met in the context of airline pilots gatherings. Because we must not forget that Bruce Dickinson, beyond his vocal performance (full of energy!), is an experienced pilot of a legendary jumbo aircraft: the Boeing 747. He indeed takes the controls of the famous jumbo of the band, the Ed Force One to  travel between the different stages of lengthy tours. An aircraft with the size of the 747 is required to transport all the people and equipment essential to the success of the shows of one of the most impressive bands on stage!

With Bruce Dickinson and my brother during a party organized by MATWATCHES:

The Bruce Aeris chronograph is primarily a tribute to the Ed Force One aircraft and was originally intended as a gift from Bruce Dickinson to the other band members. Then the idea to do a limited edition with a more substantial number of watches came to Bruce Dickinson's mind to celebrate the World Tour "The Book of Souls" which just ended a few days ago after 72 shows performed in 36 countries.

The number of watches of the limited edition is hardly surprising ... any Iron Maiden fan would have guessed it without any problem! The Bruce Aeris chronograph is indeed released in 666 pieces, the famous "number of the beast"! This reference is obviously welcome, even if it is understood that the watch is dedicated to the aircraft of the band and to the passion of Bruce Dickinson, and not to Iron Maiden.

Actually, Bruce Dickinson and Fabrice Pougez wanted to develop a functional and reliable watch with an affordable price. It is the reason why they focused their choice on the AG5 CH basis powered by a Ronda quartz movement. As a purist, I regret the decision of this quartz movement, but it is quite understandable since the targeted audience is not necessarily the "watchmaking hardcore fans". The watch remains appealing and attractive to the fans of Bruce Dickinson. The usual quality of the execution of the MATWATCHES watches is found again in the finishes of the steel case and of the dial. The case is typical of the brand's style with pushers and crown on the left. Its 44mm diameter is quite bulky but the predominant black color, the width of the bezel and the shape of the lugs reduce the perceived size. However the thickness of 15.5mm can be felt more clearly. The black PVD is applied carefully and reinforces the general feeling of robustness. The screwed pushers and crown combined with the water resistance of 200 meters make the Bruce Aeris chronograph a watch that can accompany its owner in all situations. A true all-around watch and I have the feeling that it can even be successfully tested with some stage diving actions!

The main aesthetic interest comes from the dial. I appreciate the texture of the peripheral part and the optimal integration of the Bruce Aeris logo. The latter is imposing but still manages to keep the dial harmony. The touches of red are well spread and  the dial offers a good balance between audacity and sobriety. Super Luminova BGW9 is applied on the indexes and hands to ensure an efficient luminescence.

The wearing test was rather convincing. The Bruce Aeris chronograph has a strong presence on the wrist because of its volume, but the control of colors choice and the predominant black help to maintain a balanced appearance. Powerful and harmonious ... like the Iron Maiden songs! In addition, the shape of the lugs efficiently positions the case on the wrist what contributes to the excellent comfort.

Bruce Dickinson decidedly likes symbols as the "number of the beast" is also reflected in the price. Because it is  the good news about this chronograph since it is proposed at a price of 666 GBP excluding VAT in a box with gathers a certificate of authenticity, 3 straps to change the look of the watch and the tool to replace them. A quite reasonable price for a watch with an indisputable quality of execution.

So I was seduced by this watch despite its quartz engine. Indeed, its performance, the rigorous execution reflect the personality of the singer of Iron Maiden, whose professionalism is well recognized and appreciated. So, are you ready to board  Ed Force One? If it is the case, go ahead and book the chronograph exclusively via the Bruce Aeris website which was created for this purpose.

Pros:

+ An unquestionable quality of execution

+ The design of the dial

+ The wearing comfort despite the case size

Cons:

- The Quartz engine