New
Timekeepers Club / December 21, 2022

Bausele “Mil-Spec” Collection

  • The first and only non-U.S. watch to be granted a U.S. military IP license as per MIL-W-46374F and assembled in the U.S. by U.S. military veterans
  • The first watch collection designed in collaboration with military veterans and dedicated to supporting veteran soldiers associations with a built-in donation (10%)
  • THE FIRST 500 – the first 500 hundred watches will be a Limited Edition to mark this historic initiative and lay the foundations for an enduring relationship in support of veteran soldiers

New York, USA, 1 September 2022 – Doing well by doing good. The collective desire to help each other; the vision of a brighter future and a better life; the firm belief that through partnership, the possibilities are limitless – this is the spirit shared by Bausele, the U.S. Army and veteran soldiers in creating the MIL-SPEC Collection. The distinctive Field (ref. 31101) and Dive (ref. 34101) watches – developed and designed to military specifications with a task force of 11 veteran soldiers, watchmakers and watch lovers are being assembled by veterans in the US. In addition, 10% of sales go to veterans’ associations.

With the MIL-SPEC Collection, BAUSELE embarks on an unprecedented collaboration with US military veterans, both in designing the watches and assembling them in the US. We’re an Australian brand with a universal message: Take the time. Because besides telling time, a watch also tells us how precious time is, that it’s ours to take and do something with, not to waste or wait. And that’s perfectly in tune with this amazing project that opens new possibilities and brings us together with remarkable individuals for a great cause,” said Christophe Hoppé, BAUSELE’s Founder.

Arron Coote, BAUSELE’s CEO, echoed: “Bausele’s ‘MIL-SPEC’ watch was not only designed to military specifications in close collaboration with military veterans; it is also being assembled by military veterans in the US, on American soil. In addition, our aim is to also benefit veterans associations by donating 10% of sales. Beyond its purpose as a superior quality watch that can be worn on active duty, but also every day, the MIL-SPEC makes a difference. It embodies the positive spirit that comes from shared values and the desire to do well by doing good.”

Bausele MIL-SPEC - The origin story


Bausele has always had a strong ‘defense’ gene in its DNA ever since it was founded in 2011. The brand originally provided limited edition watches for the Australian Intelligence Corps and the Special Operations Engineers Regiment, and that was before beating out some of the biggest watch names in the world to become the official watch of the Royal Australian Airforce 100th Anniversary in 2021.

Bausele was also the official watch of the Invictus Games held in The Hague in April 2022. This global adaptive sports competition is dedicated to inspiring recovery, supporting rehabilitation and generating a wider understanding and respect for wounded, injured and sick Servicemen and Servicewomen, both serving and veterans. Arron Coote, Bausele’s CEO wouldn’t have missed it for the world. On returning to Los Angeles, Arron wanted to do more to help the incredible people he had just spent five days with and decided to create an affiliate program that could help all veterans charities and organizations in the United States – by generating revenue through a dedicated watch collection – BAUSELE MIL-SPEC.

A deeper connection with veteran soldiers


Arron Coote is a passionate mental health campaigner who lives in Los Angeles. When he first moved to the US, he was taken aback by the many homeless people on the streets. He was deeply affected by the number of veterans living in makeshift tents on the streets around the Veterans Affairs building.

Over the last several years Arron had developed a friendship with a US Army veteran, Jamal Ali. The two had discussed many times the difficulties faced by veterans when transitioning back into society after serving in the military as well as the effects of PTSD on this assimilation process. They found through shared stories and experiences that they had a lot in common around trauma and how it affected their lives.

A powerful idea gets the full support of the US Army


Arron first pitched his idea of a “mil-spec” watch to raise funds for military veterans in an e-mail to the US Army licensing department on July 1s , 2021, expecting the likelihood of ever getting a response to be very small. To his surprise, the next morning he received a reply that began with “Although our licensing program has historically limited licensing to organizations in the U.S. and Canada, your concept is very interesting…

Within 8 months, with the design ‘task force’ already hard at work on initial prototypes, BAUSELE was granted a US Army IP license.

A design inspired by the military watches of the 1940s


The Bausele US Army collection is inspired by watches from a time when they were kept for life. In the 1940s, military watches followed well-defined aesthetic codes. A brushed metal case so as not to reflect light, a black dial with luminous hands and numbers that told time at a glance in the dark of night, and a straightforward but ultra-precise and ultra-robust movement…

The first step was to explore the rich history of military watches. The team then studied the official US Military specifications, MIL-W-46374F, a 36-page document detailing the standards a watch must meet if it is to be worn by members of the United States armed forces. For the BAUSELE MIL-SPEC collection, they chose to stick to the original designs on pages 31 and 34 of the Military Specifications:

Reference 31101 applies to the field watch, the first 2 numerals referring to the page of the official MIL-W-46374F military specifications document where this watch case design is detailed; consequently, 34101 applies to the dive watch.

We kept the original size as well as the case shape for both models, ensuring it is functional and comfortable in every aspect and activity of the wearer’s life but also up to military training and combatready. Besides being highly resistant to shock and water, it has to be accurate, reliable and durable – and make telling time clear and quick. We’re proud that Bausele’s design passed muster with flying colors,” comments Arron Coote, CEO of BAUSELE.

Adds Christophe Hoppé, founder of BAUSELE: “Our aim was to create an authentic product with an aesthetic that stands the test of time and not only pays tribute to the world’s iconic military watches and their origins, but also makes no compromises in living up to the high standards that continue to define the everyday of servicemen and servicewomen. As with all other Bausele watches, both MILSPEC models come with a 5-year warranty.”

The Bausele crown – each watch becomes truly unique, with a special connection


Both the MIL-SPEC Field Watch and the Dive Watch come with the BAUSELE crown, a unique feature that has become a brand hallmark. On a BAUSELE watch, a compartment is engineered into the crown that contains a specific element that underscores the unique nature, the identity of each watch, and that evokes special emotions.

For the MIL-SPEC collection, the crown is filled with natural American soil – visible through the transparent crown cap – from military forts throughout the United States. Integrating this distinctive BAUSELE feature into a design that met the stringent MIL-W-46374F specifications was a challenge, but thankfully not an impossible one.

Packed into hard ground by scores of boots, swirled up in the air by countless helicopter dust-offs, the soil that witnessed so many drills, parades, salutes – in short, history – gains a special significance, treasured in the crown of BAUSELE MIL-SPEC watches.

Says Arron Coote: “We’re especially pleased that we were able to stay true to our brand’s hallmark and maintain the Bausele crown in the MIL-SPEC collection. It does make each watch even more significant as part of our work with military veterans. It’s something very special that resonates with the wearer on a deeper level.”

The crown on this BAUSELE watch contains grains of sand from legendary Bondi Beach, just three miles (as the crow flies) southeast of BAUSELE’s offices in Sydney.

Integration of the BAUSELE crown into Ref. 31101 (Field Watch). “It makes every watch truly a one-off, but perhaps more importantly, it’s a way to feel connected with the spirit behind the watch.”

Bausele MIL-SPEC – a collection designed by a team of watchmakers, watch lovers and veteran soldiers


From that first inkling of an idea to the first watches being assembled by military veterans, Bausele worked closely with a team of veteran soldiers across the USA on the design of the MIL-SPEC collection of field and dive watches.

BAUSELE brought together a design “task force” composed of 11 military veterans and watch specialists who were involved from the very beginning of the design process, making sure that all aspects of the watch were discussed, challenged and validated. Christophe Hoppé, who usually designs Bausele’s watches by himself, was very excited to bounce ideas around with great minds, pushing the envelope and exploring all the aspects and possibilities of this very special watch design.

Says Christophe Hoppé, BAUSELE’s founder: “What’s especially gratifying is that each watch in the Bausele MIL-SPEC collection not only reflects the creativity of a fantastic group of people, but also that it is ultimately assembled by military veterans who share the passion for watchmaking. We hope this first limited edition of 500 pieces will be the foundation for a virtuous initiative that truly deserves widespread support.”

The Bausele MIL-SPEC Design ‘Task Force’


The MIL-SPEC project started with the idea of creating a watch that would benefit veteran soldiers, but not just in the sense of a percentage set aside for charity but as a concrete and enduring initiative with an active role for veterans. To design the watch, we were able to bring together a remarkable collection of talent with the most diverse backgrounds. It’s been an amazing journey and we’re all quite proud of the result”, says Arron Coote, BAUSELE CEO.

Jamal Ali is a combat veteran. His first duty station was in South Korea with the 802nd Engineer Battalion. Other assignments included: 187th Infantry Fort Campbell, Kentucky, 101st Air Assault Division Operations Desert Storm & Desert Shield, Saudi Arabia & Iraq; 75B Personnel Administration Specialist, SIDPERS Expert, and 73C Finance Management Specialist.

Andi Ward served as a Construction Electrician in the United States Navy with Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 3 “Better than Best!”. She deployed to Ramadi, Iraq, in 2008 and to Djibouti and Uganda, Africa, in 2009. Eight years after leaving the service, Andi was introduced to Merging Vets & Players (MVP) by a friend and, after walking into her first huddle, instantly knew she had found a team again. In May 2021, Andi graduated with a B.S. in Kinesiology, with an emphasis on active lifestyle development.

Says Andi Ward: “I am thrilled to be part of a team that seeks to improve its members' physical and mental wellbeing through connection, vulnerability, and member lead support and upliftment.

Greg’s grandfather was in the Navy, his dad was in the Army Reserve and served 27 years with five deployments (4 to Afghanistan and 1 to Qatar). His brother is a Naval Academy graduate and Navy helicopter pilot. Greg graduated with a commission from West Point. Currently, Greg works for the US Army Corps of Engineers as an Operations Supervisor.

Sabot Foundation, a charitable organization established in 2016 with the specific purpose of supporting veterans in their transition to civilian life. To achieve this goal, the foundation supports veterans by creating lasting connections through participation in special, social, healthy and athletic activities.

Says Jon Krashna: “Sabot Foundation is honored to have participated in the creation of The official United States Army watches developed by Bausele. Our relationship with Bausele conjoins with our mission and goals within the veteran community. The support for Veterans comes from utilizing holistic platforms to combat the effects of PTSD, CTE, MTBI, MST and educating the public about the impact of these conditions, while bringing awareness to the suicide prevention and problem that plagues veterans”.

Nate is a former United States Army Green Beret and former NFL player with the Seattle Seahawks. He is the co-founder of Merging Vets and Players (MVP), founded in 2015 with Jay Glazer, NFL Insider for FOX Sports. They wanted to address the challenges that combat veterans and former professional athletes face in transition once the uniform comes off.

Says Nate Boyer: “MVP empowers combat veterans and former professional athletes by connecting them after they leave active duty; providing them with a new team to assist with transition, promote personal development, and show them they are never alone.

Corporal Rohan “Doc” Martin, Army Combat Medic, served from May 1986 to December 1991. His first duty station was the 1st Battalion 54th Infantry Regiment “Mail Foot” in Bamberg, Germany. His second duty station was the 2nd Battalion 187th Airborne Infantry Regiment of 101st Airborne Division at Fort Campbell, Ky. He also served in Operation Desert in the Middle East.

Says Rohan Martin: “It was a tremendous feeling of recognition and inclusion to be a part of the Bausele Army Watch design team. The endeavor to honor military veterans for their service by including them in the design of this watch speaks volumes about this outstanding company and resulted in a beautiful military time piece. Thank you Bausele, and fellow vets. Job well done mates!

Sam was selected to be part of the first group of women trained as Cultural Support Team leaders. As a member of the elite force solely assigned to Special Operations teams such as Rangers, Special Forces, and SEALs, Sam’s primary role was to cultivate a relationship with Afghani women and children.

Says Sam Juan: “I had the honor of serving and deploying with U.S. Navy SEALs during Operation Enduring Freedom. “This was a great way for me to interact with third-world cultures in their true habitat. Having this responsibility forced me to solve this problem creatively.

Serge is a high-level Corporate Executive based in California. French-born, he has a huge passion for watches and watchmaking. Though an avid collector of all types and brands of watches, Serge is one of the world’s most knowledgeable experts of Seiko’s rich watch history.

The ”Anti Negative Vibes” watch


Anti Negative Vibes is engraved on the case back as a reminder to always keep a positive attitude. The world is going through challenging times (global warming, pandemic, economic tensions and wars... to name a few). Our watches may not save the world, but they are a way of keeping negative energies and vibes at bay. 

This conceptual idea builds on the fact that if we all make a conscious effort to be positive, caring and respectful of others in the little things in life, the world will be a better place.

BAUSELE: an Australian brand that distinguishes itself with special and innovative projects


Both Christophe Hoppé, the Founder, and Arron Coote, the CEO of BAUSELE feel strongly about being part of making the world a better place and giving back to the community. The charity portion of sales is what opened BAUSELE's eyes to making a meaningful difference to restoring people, not just planes. Not long after this Bausele became the official watch of The Invictus Games, supporting injured service men and women recover through sport.

BAUSELE was selected to create the OFFICIAL WATCH to mark The Invictus Games, The Hague, 2022. This multi-sport competition uses the power of sport to inspire recovery, support rehabilitation and generate a wider understanding and respect for wounded, injured and sick servicemen and women, both serving and veterans.

Following a visit in 2013 to the US-based Warrior Games for wounded, ill and injured military personnel and veterans, Prince Harry was inspired to create an expanded international version. The inaugural Invictus Games in London in the fall of 2014 attracted more than 400 competitors from 13 different nations. The Hague marked the fifth edition after London, UK (2014), Orlando, US (2016), Toronto, CA (2017) and Sydney, AU (2018).

Technical specifications


Bausele MIL-SPEC "Field Watch" Black

Reference: 31101

The first 500 watches will be a limited edition to mark this historic initiative and lay the foundations for an enduring relationship in support of veteran soldiers

Case

  • Material: 316L sandblasted surgical grade stainless steel
  • Diameter: 38 mm
  • Thickness: 11.95mm
  • Lug-to-lug: 45 mm
  • Glass: Sapphire crystal with five layers of antireflective coating
  • Screw-down crown filled with soil from military forts across the USA – visible through the crown cap
  • Case back: 316L sandblasted surgical grade stainless steel, US Army logo laser engraved
  • Water-resistant to 100 meters

Dial and hands

  • 2-layer dial (sandwich)
  • “old radium” Luminova® on numerals and hours & minute hands
  • 24-hour time (military time) around dial center

Movement

  • Caliber: Seiko NH38
  • Automatic movement
  • Number of jewels: 24
  • Power reserve of 41 hours

Functions/Indications

  • Hours, minutes, seconds

Strap and buckle

  • Comes with 2 straps: one 22mm elastic nylon strap plus one made of recycle material

MSRP: USD 700

Technical specifications


Bausele MIL-SPEC "Field Watch" Beige

Reference: 31101

The first 250 watches will be a limited edition to mark this historic initiative and lay the foundations for an enduring relationship in support of veteran soldiers

Case

  • Material: 316L sandblasted surgical grade stainless steel
  • Diameter: 38 mm
  • Thickness: 11.95mm
  • Lug-to-lug: 45 mm
  • Glass: Sapphire crystal with five layers of antireflective coating
  • Screw-down crown filled with soil from military forts across the USA – visible through the crown cap
  • Case back: 316L sandblasted surgical grade stainless steel, US Army logo laser engraved
  • Water-resistant to 100 meters

Dial and hands

  • 2-layer dial (sandwich)
  • “old radium” Luminova® on numerals and hours & minute hands
  • 24-hour time (military time) around dial center

Movement

  • Caliber: Seiko NH38
  • Automatic movement
  • Number of jewels: 24
  • Power reserve of 41 hours

Functions/Indications

  • Hours, minutes, seconds

Strap and buckle

  • Comes with 2 straps: one 22mm elastic nylon strap plus one made of recycle material

MSRP: USD 700

Technical specifications


Bausele MIL-SPEC "Dive Watch"

Reference: 34101

The first 500 watches will be a limited edition to mark this historic initiative and lay the foundations for an enduring relationship in support of veteran soldiers

Case

  • Material: 316L sandblasted surgical grade stainless steel (untreated or with black IP coating)
  • Diameter: 39.5mm
  • Thickness: 11.30mm without domed sapphire crystal (12.8mm with crystal)
  • Glass: Sapphire crystal with five layers of antireflective coating
  • Screw-down crown filled with soil from military forts across the USA – visible through the crown cap
  • Case back: 316L sandblasted surgical grade stainless steel, US Army logo laser engraved
  • Water-resistant to 200 meters (20 ATM)

Dial and hands

  • 2-layer dial (sandwich)
  • “old radium” Luminova® on numerals and hours & minute hands
  • 24-hour time (military time) around dial center

Movement

  • Sellita SW200
  • Automatic, hacking movement
  • Number of jewels: 26
  • Power reserve of 38 hours

Functions/Indications

  • Hours, minutes, seconds

Strap and buckle

  • 22mm, Tropic rubber strap

MSRP: USD 1'200

For more information, please visit bausele.com

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