About fifty stunningly crafted, wooden classic Yachts gather in the old port of Cowes on the Isle of Wight for the replica Panerai British Classic Week every July. The classic is one of a series of 10 global regattas being held year. There are three categories in total within each regatta: vintage yachts, classic yachts and big boats. It’s worth noting that yachts maybe further sub-divided based on rig, rating and length.
The week is organized by the Britsih Classic Yacht Club, which exists to promote ownership, knowledge, and appreciation of classic yachts, as well as to preserve their beauty for the enjoyment of future generations. Panerai has supported the Classic Yacht Challenge since it restored the beautiful Bermudan ketch Eilean in 2007. Jack’s written a bit about Panerai’s connecting to yachting before – and his story is still very much worth a read.
Though many had already raced, or we’re set to leave when I arrived, there were various classics taking part in the various races and activities. Highlights include the Concours d’Elegance, which saw all competing typical yachts and classic motor boats parade past the Royal Yacht Squadron replica watches, and for the first time this year, the NAB Tower Race, a day race around the Nab Tower which lies to the East of the Solent. The world of classic sailing is one in which beauty trumps performance and passion is king.
The Royal Yacht Squadron is a rather huge deal in yachting circles. Perched on the hill, guarding the entrance to Cowes, the club was founded in 1815 in the Thatched House Tavern in St James’s, London. The founding members decided to meet in London and in Cowes twice a year, to discuss all things yachting over a three course dinner. In the early days, membership was limited to those who owned a vessel “not under 10 tons.” Having spoken to some other members this week, the current requirements for membership are those “actively interested in yachting”.
I have come to notice that it’s one thing to say you want to do something in life and business. This week I saw the luxury replica breitling taking action on putting something back into the communities they sell on the back of. In addition to the racing, Panerai released its Challenger Trophy. It’s a three-year project, conceived by Panerai and the Royal Yacht Association. It’s an award that recognizes an outstanding young person between the age of 8-18 years who has embraced the power of sailing or windsurfing and overcome physical, economic or social challenges to achieve a significant milestone and encourage others to participate. Though there is a long way to go in breaking down the finial barrier in sailing, I applaud the well-known fake breitling for taking this first, not inconsiderable step.