Over the last two years, more than a dozen specialists have worked to restore an original Spitfire Mk.IX aircraft, which was originally built in Castle Bromwich back in 1943. Following several successful test flights in July, the “Silver Spitfire” finally took off from Goodwood Aerodrome on Monday 5 August, beginning its much-anticipated expedition of the globe. Piloting the iconic British aircraft is Matt Jones and Steve Brooks, co-founders of the Boultbee Flight Academy.

Approximately 400 guests gathered at the Aerodrome for a big farewell party hosted by IWC. The funfair atmosphere included live music, an air show and other attractions. Amongst the guests were Hollywood stars Rosamund Pike and Taron Egerton, former Formula 1™ driver David Coulthard, TV and radio presenter Dermot O’Leary, British actor Finn Cole and The Duke of Richmond. 

The departure of the “Silver Spitfire” was preceded by a parachute drop by the RAF Red Devils and when the Silver Spitfire took to the skies, it was accompanied by a ceremonial escort of three two-seater Spitfires.

The Silver Spitfire will now continue its epic journey around the world, the two British pilots will cover more than 43,000 kilometres and visit 30 countries. The route will initially take them to Iceland, and from there to Canada and the USA. A total of approximately 100 flight segments will be needed to complete the mission from start to finish. During their journey through the different time zones, Boultbee Brooks and Jones will wear the Pilot’s Watch Timezoner Spitfire Edition “The Longest Flight” (Ref. IW395501). As the official watch of the expedition, this timepiece makes it possible to set the time to a different time zone by simply turning the bezel to the desired location.

The Silver Spitfire’s journey will finish its journey at Goodwood Aerodrome in December. You can follow its journey here.