The main source of the company's fortunes arrived in 1888 when Burberry obtained a patent on gabardine, a hardwearing, water-resistant yet breathable fabric, in which the yarn is waterproofed before weaving. This was the ideal clothing material to wear for the outdoor and sporting activities favoured by the British aristocracy in a frequently rainy country like the UK.

Burberry watches – a romantic and adventuring spirit.

The company became synonymous with providing high-quality items to the gentry and Army officers. This fame spread from their Home Counties roots and in 1891, the company opened a shop in the Haymarket area of London. The store still exists and until recently was the site of Burberry’s corporate headquarters.

In 1901, the Equestrian Knight logo found on Burberry watches was developed and registered as a trademark. This logo accompanied Roald Amundsen, the first man to reach the South Pole, on his trek in 1911, it was also on outfits worn by Ernest Shackleton’s 1914 expedition to cross Antarctica. A gabardine jacket was also worn by George Mallory on his ill-fated attempt on Mount Everest in 1924. In 1914 Burberry was commissioned by the War Office to adapt its officer's coat to suit the conditions of contemporary warfare, resulting in the "trench coat". After the war, the trench coat became popular with civilians. The iconic check that is still featured on Burberry watches was created in the 1920s and used as a lining in its trench coats.

Since its inception this famous designer brand has been synonymous with quality, and this still extends to its collection of watches which display a distinctive British sensibility and luxury that is recognised the world over.