Henley-based Bremont Watch Company, manufacturer of precision-engineered mechanical watches, has been announced as overall national winner of Global Connections 2013 – an HSBC initiative to find the UK’s most innovative and forward-thinking companies. 

Bremont was announced as joint winner along with Brompton Bicycle at an awards ceremony in Loch Lomond, Scotland. It was selected from thousands of entries across the UK to become one of 10 regional winners invited to attend the UK national final event where the winners were decided and announced.

It was the first time in the history of HSBC Global Connections that two businesses have held joint first position and HSBC’s head of business banking Steve Price said: “Our two winners represent the pinnacle of UK manufacturing, their innovative thinking has seen them succeed in multiple export markets, and they have a strong focus on giving back to the communities they operate in.

“The quality was so high between our finalists and we felt that it was appropriate make both of these outstanding businesses Global Connections winners.

“Bremont produces timepieces that are tested beyond any normal call of duty to ensure precision and durability. Founded by brothers Nick & Giles English in 2002, it was born out of their love of flying historic aircrafts, classic timepieces and all things mechanical, and they are the driving force behind the growth of the company.”

Pogressing rapidly, Bremont is now in over 40 UK stores and last July opened its flagship boutique in Mayfair, London. The brand also recently launched a limited edition timepiece which included original parts of oak and copper from HMS Victory. Future plans include expansion of global markets, including the Middle East.

Giles English said: “For someone outside the business to recognise that we’re doing the right thing is a great boost.”

Both Bremont and Brompton Bicycles will receive a financial reward of up to £240,000 to support the development of their next international business idea. The businesses were also awarded a place on a HSBC Thought Exchange Trip to Singapore, giving them an opportunity to network with like-minded businesses.