There are two “special” tartans: the so called “Royal Stewart” tartan, regarded as without family affiliation, and the “Black Watch” tartan, that is a military tartan, named after a Highland Regiment. The regiment's name allegedly came from the dark tartan that they wore and from its role to "watch" the Highlands. (http://www.theblackwatch.co.uk/)
The Royal Stewart Tartan is the tartan of the royal House of Stewart, and is also the personal tartan of Queen Elizabeth II. Officially, the tartan is worn by the pipers of the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards.
The tartan has became well known in motor racing circles, as three-times Formula One World Champion Jackie Stewart used a distinctive band of Royal Stewart tartan around his crash helmet.
