Bessie FAI-01

A Tribute to a Pioneer Introducing the Riley Bessie FAI-01 , hand-built in our Manchester workshop. This limited-edition chronograph combines vintage aviation character with a soft, modern colour palette — an elegant nod to the early days of flight and the fearless spirit of its namesake. The Story of Bessie Coleman Bessie Coleman was a trailblazing aviator and the first African American and Native American woman to earn a pilot’s licence. Denied entry to U.S. flight schools because of her race and gender, she travelled to France in 1921 to train with the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale , earning international recognition for her daring air shows and unwavering determination. The Bessie FAI-01 celebrates her courage and legacy, with “Bessie” printed above the date window and a nameplate inspired by the French flight school where she made history. Design & Movement Available in three striking yet refined colourways , the Bessie Aero houses a Japanese Miyota JP21 quartz movement for exceptional accuracy and reliability. Its compact 36 mm case and balanced dial layout feature two primary subdials — one for the day, one for 24-hour time — alongside a framed date window. Every…