Scout Motors, backed by Volkswagen, is in a trademark dispute with Chicago-based watchmaker Astor+Banks. The microbrand has stopped taking orders for its Terra Scout mechanical watch after receiving legal threats from the automaker. Astor+Banks announced the the dispute on March 5, stating that Scout Motors claims the watch's name conflicts with its brand identity.
The watchmaker argues that the two companies operate in separate industries and target different customers. According to Astor+Banks, there is no reasonable likelihood that buyers would confuse a mechanical watch with electric and range-extended SUVs and pickups.
The Terra Scout is a 38.5 mm automatic watch featuring an LJP G100 movement with a 68-hour power reserve. It was developed by founder Andrew Perez, drawing on his military service. Case options included sandblasted stainless steel, black DLC, and a limited-production Desert Sand Cerakote.
Pre-order pricing for the Terra Scout was set at $875, with the Desert Sand Limited Edition costing $975. Regular pricing was planned to increase to $995 and $1,195 respectively. Customers with existing pre-orders will receive updates or can request a full refund.