It appears that the latest essential accessory for motoring fans is a wristwatch. BMW’s done it. So have any number of other brands. Next up is Land Rover. Land Rover Classic, a sub-brand that pays tribute to older designs from the marque, is launching a wristwatch.

The new gear comes from watchmaker Elliot Brown and is known as the Elliot Brown Trophy Expedition. It’s not just turning up for the fun of it, though. It’s being launched to coincide with the new Defender Works V8 Trophy II launch.

Land Rover to watch

Which, if we’re being totally honest, is completely worth commemorating. Built along classic lines but with a batch of modern enhancements, this 5.0l V8 off-roader is designed to appeal to serious Land Rover fans. To the point where there will be a) just 25 for these cars made and b) each will feature images of Land Rover history woven into the custom camo design.

Since it’s unlikely you’ll snag one of the limited edition Defenders (which start at R4.5 million), you’ve got a better shot at the watch it has inspired. These also feature hidden silhouettes, on the face, but they can only be seen at night, or if you happen to have a UV light handy. We’re not going to ask why you own one of those.

The Elliot Brown Trophy Expedition features a solid steel case, a PVD (physical vapour deposition) coating, and a custom design for the face. The black-and-white layout sets it apart from the Elliot Brown Holton Professional, on which Land Rover’s wristwear is based. The Holton Professional was developed at the request of a British Special Forces unit, according to the marketing copy. So, you know, it should handle going offroad. Or, at least, that’s the implication.

You’ll have to be on the ball if you want one of these Elliot Brown Trophy Expedition timepieces. They might only be R12,100- practically a bargain in this economy- but only 1,000 of them exist. Happily, you don’t have to wait for launch to buy one. They’re available for pre-order now.