REC watches in collaboration with Hunter Fighter Collection Incorporated have launched a limited edition range of watches to commemorate Supermarine Spitfire Mk Ia X4009. The X4009 watches are limited-edition timepieces made from Spitfire Mk Ia X4009 aircraft, flown by Australian fighter-ace Flight Lieutenant Paterson (Pat) Clarence Hughes DFC during the Battle of Britain. Original and authentic aluminium from the fuselage, deemed unfit for the on-going restoration, have been donated and incorporated into the small-seconds subdial at 6 o’clock.
Pat was an Australian fighter ace of World War II serving with the RAF, and is today perhaps the greatest unsung hero of the Battle of Britain. Pat is credited with as many as 17 aerial victories during the aerial campaign of summer 1940, ranking him sixth in the “Ace of Aces”, as well as making him the highest-scoring Australian of the battle.
The X4009 aircraft wreckage is currently undergoing a complete restoration overseen by Hunter Fighter Collection at Scone NSW. Recognized for its combat history and unique record with one of the Battle of Britain’s most successful pilots, makes it one of if not the most famous and significant Spitfire aircraft restorations ever undertaken.
Once completed, Spitfire X4009 will reside in Scone, NSW Australia with Hunter Fighter Collection and will serve as a perpetual flying memorial to Paterson Clarence Hughes, DFC. It is planned that the aircraft will participate in displays and commemorations across Australia. When not participating in displays, the Spitfire will be an exhibit at Hunter Warbirds Aviation Centre at Scone NSW. It is expected the aircraft will be viewed by thousands of visitors every year, as well as many more who will witness its flying displays across Australia.
REC Watches is donating a portion of the sale from each timepiece back to the restoration fund.
Browse the Spitfire X4009 collection at REC Watches
