Category: Breitling Watch

Breitling Classic AVIs

It’s a big day for new releases from Breitling with a whole new line of aviator chronographs with the 42mm Breitling Classic AVI. Just like the big-brother 46mm Super AVI watches that were released in 2021, these new releases honor four legendary aircraft but now offer a more conventionally wearable size for those that appreciate the design but prefer a somewhat smaller watch. The watches come in a few different colors as nods to their respective aircraft: blue dial with a steel bezel for the F4U Corsair; black dial with steel bezel or black dial and rose gold case for the P-51 Mustang; green dial with steel bezel for the Curtiss Warhawk; and black dial with white counters and a combination polished and satin-brushed black ceramic bezel for the de Havilland Mosquito. In each case, the watch has a bidirectional ratcheted bezel and comes on either a calfskin leather strap with a folding buckle (and lug width of 22mm) or a five-row, stainless steel bracelet with a butterfly clasp. All the new watches are powered by the Breitling Caliber 23, an automatic caliber with 48 hours of power reserve, and 1/4 second chronograph with 30-minute and 12-hour totalizers. Those movements are cased in stainless steel (or 18k rose gold), measuring 42mm by 14.7mm with a 48mm lug-to-lug. With 100 meters of water resistance, the casebacks are closed and feature an engraving of the airplane linked with each model. If those releases aren’t your fancy, Breitling is also introducing two new watches from their Super AVI and AVI Co-Pilot lines. First is a black ceramic Super AVI “Mosquito Night Fighter” that measures 46mm by 15.9mm. The watch runs off the COSC-certified Breitling Manufacture Caliber B04, featuring 70 hours of power reserve, column wheel/vertical clutch chronograph, hours, minute, second, date window, and a second timezone. It also has a titanium and sapphire display caseback. The final new model is the AVI Ref. 765 1964 Re-Edition, a simplified and classic 41mm reverse panda chronograph with black amorphous diamond-like carbon (ADLC) coated steel bezel. The watch is powered by the hand-wound column-wheel, vertical clutch Breitling Manufacture Caliber B09, which gives 70 hours of power reserve so you can get all the vintage style you need with a more modern and reliable movement. It also has a snap-on steel caseback, so it is limited to 30 meters of water resistance.
Man, is there a lot to unpack here with these new releases. Since I started with the new stuff above, let’s keep that ball rolling…

As a taller guy, I often get feedback from friends that I should be wearing a big watch, but Breitling’s Super AVI chronographs have always struck me as too big for my personal taste (and 7.25″ wrist). These new 42mm Classic AVI might not fit the more traditional sizing of burly tool aviator chronographs, but not everything has to be a perfect re-creation of the classic to be suited for today’s market and tastes. And while the industry had a history of upsizing watches for a good while, I’m glad to see this more wearable option. I’m usually a bracelet guy, but on these classic-styled watches, I would likely gravitate towards a strap, likely the Warhawk or Mosquito shown above. All of them seem like great packages from an aesthetic standpoint, and I can’t wait to see how they wear. At roughly $6,000 for the smaller Breitling Classic AVI models, I think they are priced as we would expect from Breitling and the sizing should bring a wider audience. ,

For the final two pieces, it’s harder to pass judgment as Breitling only provided two pictures of each, front and back. Black ceramic (or any kind of ceramic) seems to be all the rage now, and I think there will definitely be demand for the new Breitling Super AVI. I’m personally more interested in the AVI Re-Edition in person as I love that era of pilot chronographs. But with only 164 being made, it’ll likely sell out before I’m able to see it in the metal.

Breitling Classic AVI Chronograph P-51 Mustang

Today is a watch launch bonanza from Breitling. The brand does not want to stagger the releases and unveils seven new watches within the AVI range. This line began with the Breitling AVI Ref. 765 1953 Re-Edition from 2020, which now sits alongside 14 watches ranging from 41mm to 46mm in diameter. Each new 42mm Breitling Classic AVI chronograph pays homage to classic aircraft. The 46mm Super AVI “Mosquito Night Fighter” extends the Chronograph GMT range with an in-house Breitling B04 caliber and black ceramic case. Last but not least is my favorite, the stunning AVI Ref. 765 1964 Re-Edition with a manually wound in-house Breitling B09 caliber and period-correct Hesalite crystal. The 1964 re-edition has a limitation of 164 pieces, making it an appealing proposition.

In 2021, the Super AVI Chronograph GMT took the Co-Pilot aesthetic from the 1953 re-edition and gave it a burly overhaul. The 46mm case was unpalatable for our Thor Svaboe. I, however, grew to appreciate its legibility for a chronograph with GMT function. Even so, the case does not suit all wrist sizes; therefore, the new Classic AVI bridges the gap from the authentic “capsule” recreations at 41mm to the GMT at 46mm. With a 42mm diameter, the new Breitling Classic AVI chronograph models will find a home with those who like the look but prefer greater wearability. The Classic AVI retains the 12-hour bidirectional bezel with ratcheting at each hour increment. Also consistent are the design codes honoring four aircraft — the North American Aviation P-51 Mustang, the Vought F4U Corsair, the Curtiss P-40 Warhawk, and the de Havilland Mosquito.
As Thor said, you’re either blessed with big wrists or “…you will need to work out those forearms” to carry off the 46mm Super AVI chronograph GMT. This substantial diameter is why the new 42mm Breitling Classic AVI chronograph intends to provide an easy-wearing watch that works for most wrists. Following the same themes as the GMT model, each watch reflects its namesake aircraft, with only the North American Aviation P-51 Mustang rendered in two metal choices of stainless steel and 18K red gold. While there is a mimicry of the colors between the 42mm and 46mm, the apparent difference is the lack of GMT function on the new Classic AVI range. The chronograph GMT version clearly contrasts its scales, but the Breitling manufacture B04 caliber requires a substantial case to house its construction.
The Classic AVI eschews the GMT complication, and the chronograph caliber B23 is based on an ETA 7753. While you don’t get the prowess of an in-house Breitling movement, the 14.7mm profile of the case is 1.2mm slimmer than its Super AVI counterpart, which pairs nicely with the smaller diameter. That said, using the Breitling 23 caliber also cuts the power reserve from 70 hours to 48 hours. Another change is the solid case back instead of a display back with a sapphire crystal. Depending on your stance, an all-metal case back might be a benefit as it leans more into the tool aesthetic. An aircraft engraving on each model represents each of the four planes in portrait view. There is a choice of a top-stitched calfskin strap or a five-row metal bracelet for each model.
Next up is an additional entrant to the Super Breitling Classic AVI chronograph collection. The Super AVI Mosquito Night Fighter takes my previous favorite de Havilland Mosquito model and renders it in black ceramic. It’s rare to see all-ceramic Breitling references. The last one I recall with an all-black ceramic case was the crazy-expensive €37,360 Superocean Heritage Chronoworks from 2016. I must say, it’s good to see ceramic making a return here. The new Super AVI takes inspiration from the de Havilland Mosquito Night Fighter 2, an all-black two-seater Mosquito aircraft meant to slip stealthily through the night sky. Besides the stealthy appearance, the Breitling Super AVI Mosquito Night Fighter retains the fantastic chronograph GMT layout, albeit with less contrast between the black dial and bezel and the anthracite sub-dials and 24-hour scale.
Still, the indications are legible and remind me of the Superocean Heritage Chronoworks without the steep and, admittedly, experimental price. The size is also in line with the Super AVI range at 46mm wide and 15.9mm thick. It’s big indeed, but the Super Breitling Classic AVI chronograph Mosquito Night Fighter emits a powerful presence, paying homage to a legendary aircraft. Unlike the Classic AVI, the B04 Breitling Manufacture GMT chronograph movement is visible via the sapphire exhibition window, with the Night Fighter 2 laser etching on the crystal. You also have the 70-hour power reserve and blue-emitting Super-LumiNova luminescence on the numerals, indexes, and hands. Part of me likes the tool-ish nature of the watch with the brushed black ceramic case, but I also wish for a more petite 42mm example in the Classic AVI range.
Saving the best for last, here’s the limited re-edition of the 1964 AVI Co-Pilot. This watch demonstrates the influence of esteemed vintage watch expert and Breitling consultant Fred Mandelbaum. The AVI Ref. 765 1964 is incredibly authentic to its vintage forebear from, you guessed it, 1964. This model has a black bezel, a reverse-panda dial, and a vibrant red triangle marker on the 12-hour scale. Breitling recreated these details while modernizing the materials and manufacturing techniques. For instance, the black bezel is amorphous diamond-like carbon (ADLC) for better durability. Likewise, keeping the spirit of the original is the hand-wound chronograph movement, the modern in-house Breitling B09, which is, essentially, a B01 without the rotor and more refined finishing. The lack of a rotor allows the 41mm stainless steel case to remain appropriately svelte at 14mm thick.
That’s not to say that the Breitling Classic AVI chronograph Ref. 765 1964 re-edition is fully contemporized. The crystal over the dial is Hesalite rather than sapphire, and there’s a snap-on solid steel case back and a non-screw-down crown. This means that this model is only water resistant to 30 meters, unlike the rest of the AVI collection at 100 meters. But these features showcase the harmonious meeting of old and new, further seen in the minimal and unobtrusive logo on the dial. Perhaps a more contentious element is the vintage beige luminescent accents on the hands and numerals. I like the subtle integration; the additional color offers a nice balance. The AVI Ref. 765 1964 re-edition would look too clinical with white lume, and the five lumed interval markers on the minute counter provide a lovely motif.
The Classic AVI trades the GMT function and in-house movement to achieve a pared-back format that suits particular wrists. At 42mm for the Classic and 46mm for the Super, there are far more options to experience the tributes to each legendary aircraft. The Classic and Super AVI models will exist side by side, but the addition of the AVI Ref. 765 1964 limited edition excites me the most from today’s launch, and I can’t wait to see them in the wild. You can find more details on the Breitling website here.

Breitling Premier B01 Chronograph 42

The Breitling Premier B01 Chronograph 42 collection stands out and apart from Breitling’s classic pilot and dive watches, while still leaving all its distinctive Breitling features intact. We review the flagship model of this recently launched line, with original photos by Olaf Köster. In marked contrast to the Navitimer 1 with its instrument-like tracks around the dial, or the Chronomat with its structural unidirectional rotating bezel, the timepieces in Breitling’s Premier collection embody understatement. But if we look to the past, we can see they’re clearly identifiable as Breitling watches. Most people who choose a Breitling Premier today weren’t even born when the original Premier watches were launched in the 1940s. During that time of turmoil and new beginnings, watches in the Premier line were intended to convey reliability, value and a touch of elegance. These merits are welcome today as well and give us a chance to step away from our fast-paced world for a bit of peace and quiet.

And so the Premier collection not only recalls a different era with its name but also hits the same marks with its design as it did back in the 1940s. It is also “the first modern Breitling collection that stands for elegance in everyday life,” according to Breitling CEO Georges Kern.
Breitling’s horological journey through three generations of the founding family was “very much the history of the chronograph,” notes the brand’s historian Fred Mandelbaum. When Breitling Premier B01 Chronograph 42 revived the historic Premier line in 2019 after a 50-plus-year hiatus, the brand aimed to capture that vintage flair in a modern interpretation. Today, the Swiss heritage watchmaker is adding six new Premier models, each in a 42mm case. Five are made of stainless steel and one of 18K rose gold, and all feature a COSC-certified manufacture caliber B01.
Breitling is synonymous with the chronograph. Through the early 20th century, the brand progressively developed its form and function with multiple patents as a utility timekeeper for the masses. But it was the third-generation leader Willy Breitling who elevated the family specialty, strategically turning the tool-watch chronograph into a style icon that we know today. Willy drew upon his business savvy to carve out a new category in the market for his dual-pusher chronograph as an everyday dress watch. Then came the Premier collection in 1943, which touted top-of-the-line quality and elegance for the fashionable set. These watches featured simple, clean designs inspired by the Art Deco style that was popular at the time. They were designed to be more refined and understated than Breitling’s other collections, which were primarily geared toward pilots and aviation enthusiasts.
Fast forward to 2019. Under the new management of Georges Kern, Breitling revived the Premier line to pay homage to the brand’s glorious past. Mike did a detailed review of the Breitling Premier B01 Chronograph 42 here. Staying true to the original “Premier” spirit, the remake boasted “the best caliber, best material, and best design.” In 2021, the brand brought back the full 1940s lineup with four new styles in the Premier Heritage collection, which Ben delved into in a showdown here. Breitling has also collaborated with several notable figures and organizations to produce limited-edition Premier watches. Among them are Bentley Motors and the Royal Air Force’s Red Arrows aerobatic display team.
But the Breitling Premier B01 Chronograph 42 shows the instrumental nature Breitling is known for – more than merely chronometer performance. The center-mounted stopwatch hand has a red tip that travels around a delicate but fully legible tachymeter track, which is expertly printed on the black flange ring around the dial, and glides above the seconds track that is divided in thirds to reflect the 4-Hz rhythm of the Caliber 01 automatic movement. The precision and accuracy Breitling is known for is beautifully staged beneath a domed anti-glare sapphire crystal that reveals a certain retro charm. It is a nod to the past, just like the Premier logo on the dial: Premier models in the 1940s were the first Breitling watches to bear the product name on the dial. Its understated elegance extends even as far as the minimal application of luminous material on the hour and minutes hands – enough to barely read the time in poor lighting conditions. By contrast, legibility during the day is excellent.

Breitling Endurance Pro University

The all-new Breitling Endurance Pro University Editions collection is an athleisure watch for collegiate fans around the world. The idea is to show school spirit on one’s wrist with special editions in honor of Princeton University, The United States Naval Academy, The University of Alabama and University of Michigan. Designed both as a lightweight watch for athletes and a casual, everyday sports chronograph, it is both a lightweight and light-hearted luxury sports watch combining high precision, innovative technology and vibrant, colorful design in honor of these iconic institutions.
Each of the University Edition watches feature the school’s distinctive colors and signature emblems on the dials and casebacks. The Breitling Endurance Pro (Princeton University edition) features an orange inner bezel, matching orange strap, Princeton Shield on the dial and caseback. The Breitling Endurance Pro United States Naval Academy edition has a blue inner bezel, coordinating blue strap, Navy Midshipmen logo on the dial and the United States Naval Academy Anchor engraving on the caseback. The Breitling Endurance Pro, The University of Alabama edition, has a red inner bezel and strap, Alabama Crimson Tide athletic department logo on the dial and a Where Legends Are Made campaign engraving on the caseback. The Breitling Endurance Pro University of Michigan edition features a blue inner bezel and matching strap, signature maize Block M on the dial and Michigan Lamp of Knowledge Seal engraved on the caseback.

The Breitling Endurance Pro combines an ultra-lightweight 44-millimeter Breitlight case and a thermo-compensated SuperQuartz movement ten times more accurate than conventional quartz, and it offers optimal comfort, matchless precision, and functionality that will appeal both to committed athletes and to more casual sports enthusiasts. Designed for men and women whose active lives blend a professional mindset with a sporty lifestyle, the Endurance Pro is equal to the challenges of a rigorous workout but fashionable enough for everyday wear.

As Breitling USA President Thierry Prissert explains, “When I went to my first collegiate football game in Alabama, the passion and enthusiasm I saw first-hand from the fans had me so inspired, I knew this would be the perfect alignment for a custom Breitling Endurance Pro University of Alabama edition watch. With this idea came the vision to expand the University Editions with three other iconic colleges with Princeton University, The United States Naval Academy and The University of Michigan. Their signature school colors compliment the already colorful Breitling Endurance Pro collection, and we knew students, alumni and fans of these universities would like to showcase this school spirit on their wrists.”
A SuperQuartz movement powers every piece in Breitling’s Professional range, the tool watches that have long been favorites with explorers and pilots. The Breitling Endurance Pro University Editions collection takes the range into the world of sports, in which Breitling also has a significant legacy. Throughout the mid-20th century, the brand has partnered with major cycling competitions, including the Giro d’Italia and Tour de France and cycling legends Fausto Coppi and Gino Bartali were its ambassadors. The same is true in motorsports, where Breitling has sponsored famous rallies. The brand has long offered watches with sports-friendly functions and the Endurance Pro University Edition carries on that proud legacy in the world of collegiate sports. The Endurance Pro is inspired by the Breitling Sprint, a watch from the 1970s that combined a pulsometer with an impressively light weight. It was ideal for athletes who wanted to be able to monitor their heart rates. It was made from resin, so it was particularly comfortable on the wrist. It was also produced in some 1970s colors, and the Endurance Pro is a modern evolution of that design.
There are four colorful variations of the new Breitling Endurance Pro University Editions. Each one features a black dial and a black bidirectional rotating bezel with engraved cardinal compass points (N, S, E and W). The four variations are distinguished by their own bold and iconic school colors: they are designed with an inner bezel, which is marked with a useful pulsometer scale, making it easy for the user to keep track of their heart rate during sports sessions. The watches are presented on a Diver Pro rubber strap in the same color as the inner bezel ring. The strap is secured with a Breitlight double-pin buckle. The watch also has a tactile molded crown in the same color as the strap and the inner bezel ring for excellent grip and maneuverability. At the heart of the Endurance Pro is the COSC-certified Breitling Caliber 82, whose SuperQuartz technology delivers precision.

The hour and minute hands are coated with Super-LumiNova, making them legible even in limited lighting conditions. The chronograph second hand has a red pointer, so it is easy to keep track of the elapsed time. Along with a small-second subdial, there are 1/10th second and 30-minute chronograph counters that have also been designed for easy reading.

The Breitling Endurance Pro is water-resistant to 10 bar/100 meters/330 feet and comes with a two-year warranty. Breitling introduced Breitlight in 2016. The robust, ultra-light material’s characteristics speak for themselves: 3.3 times lighter than titanium and 5.8 times lighter than stainless steel, the material is nonmagnetic, thermally stable and hypoallergenic. Breitlight is highly resistant to scratches, traction and corrosion. It also feels warmer to the touch than metal and has a slightly textured effect, accentuating the originality of the design. Exclusive to Breitling, it is 100% Swiss

Breitling Navitimer B01 Chronograph 41 watch

For 2022, Breitling has redesigned its iconic Breitling Navitimer Chronograph watch, which for decades has been a staple of high-end tool timepieces originally designed for commercial airline pilots in the early 1950s. The Navitimer has seen countless iterations over the years and is one of the world’s most recognized luxury sports watches. It has not, however, experienced a recent makeover under Breitling’s current stewardship by Georges Kern. The updated Breitling Navitimer for 2022 is known officially as the Navitimer B01 Chronograph and comes in three case sizes with a variety of different dial options, many of which have never been offered in a Navitimer watch before. The aBlogtoWatch team was able to go hands-on with all of the new Breitling Navitimer B01 Chronograph watches and below is our take on this modern version of a timeless classic. For me, the Navitimer has always been a staple of tool watches because of its focus on computational utility. Its core design element is a slide-rule bezel that once allowed pilots to make various necessary calculations such as time to their destination or fuel consumption rate. The rotating slide-rule bezel mixed with the chronograph offered a small universe of capabilities. Only the smartest and most competent pilots would be seen wearing such a wrist instrument, and the legacy of the learned aviation professional lives on in this decidedly Breitling brand watch. With a design DNA that was perfected long ago, according to many timepiece enthusiasts, what was Breitling able to do with a modern Navitimer that hasn’t been done before? It is important to mention some useful context at play when Breitling designed the new Navitimer. First of all, it was the brand’s goal to make the Navitimer look and feel as pleasant as possible while fitting into contemporary trends in luxury timepieces. That means the watches also need variety and be able to appeal to multiple audience sizes and color preferences. While the slide rule feature is truly iconic, few Navitimer customers are known to actually use this piece of functionality, which means the feature needs to be there but Breitling doesn’t really talk about it much. In fact, Breitling has a series of prototype Navitimer watches with more water resistance (hard to accomplish with the bezel functioning as it does). None of those ever made it to market because the resulting watch cases don’t really look “Navitimer enough.” So, Breitling’s goal with the redesigned Navitimer is mainly two-fold: to create a commercially successful luxury watch that fits into Breitling’s “relaxed luxury lifestyle” brand personality, and to offer a product that looks and feels like the classic Navitimer enthusiasts love. Note that to make the dial a bit cleaner, this generation of Navitimer Chronograph watch dials do not have a tachymeter scale, and I don’t think a single person will really miss it. It was also important that Breitling get to feature its extremely competent in-house caliber B01 automatic chronograph movement but also to make the Navitimer case thinner. Older Navitimer watches are thinner, but they are also manually wound (versus automatic). The 2022 Navitimer watches are about 1.5mm thinner than previous-generation models, and they also feature an exhibition caseback. The case thinness (they are all about 13.6-14mm-thick, depending on the version) is thanks to a redesign of the slide-rule bezel system, which is now flat instead of sloped, as was the case on previous models. The dial doesn’t appear flat, however, thanks to the recessed subdials. Many people will not notice, at first glance, the different architecture of the Navitimer dial, but it is very apparent once you start to inspect it or compare it to other recent Navitimer Chronograph watches. Breitling decided to go very commercial with the dials in terms of colors and finishing. That’s a business decision that probably makes sense, but purists will probably still be more attracted to some of the more historic-looking recent Navitimer watches that have more of a “tool watch” look. The various metallic colors and copious reflective surfaces test well with luxury seekers but make the new Navitimer B01 Chronograph watches quite “blingy” when compared with the classic models. Adding to that look are new colors, including two different greens (one is a fun mint), two blues, and a variety of grays, whites, and black tones mixed together. There are even 18k red-gold case options in addition to the main steel-cased versions to offer an even more high-end feel. The dials are very nice, but I prefer a more matte style to watches with this level of dial detail, and for the snazzier shiny look, I am still very much taken by Breitling’s Chronomat 42 masterpieces. For me, the most jarring aspect of the new Breitling Navitimer B01 Chronograph case design is the polishing. While not always true, most recent Navitimer watches have had all-polished cases — really nice polished cases. For 2022, Breitling goes a different route by maintaining the core Navitimer case style but offering both polished and brushed surface finishing over the case and the available bracelet. This adds a lot of visual interest to the case and bracelet, but the dual-finishing of the 2022 Navitimer watches do make them stand out from the rest of the modern versions of the watch and will probably help them stand out to customers who have previous-generation Navitimer models. On the dial, we see a return to the AOPA Breitling “wings” logo, which has been used on some retro-remake models but no standard collection pieces, until now. Breitling CEO Georges Kern presided over the Navitimer B01 Chronograph launch event and explained something very interesting about the brand’s logos. The problem is that none of the current logos work with all of the watches. Some logos appear better on the modern watches but not the classic ones. Some of the watches have just a Breitling “B,” and others have mere graphic logos. It is great that Breitling has so much history to pull from to make this possible, but it is also interesting that the brand’s current logos don’t actually work well on all watches. Breitling isn’t the only watch brand now to play with different logo designs on contemporary watches but probably has the best reasons to use multiple logos across product collections. To serve the needs of various customers (including women), Breitling made the correct decision to offer what is essentially the same watch in three different case sizes. It is true that some dial color configurations are only available in some sizes, but for the most part, Breitling makes sure that the 41, 43, and 46mm-wide Navitimer B01 Chronograph watches are more or less the same in terms of style and look. Having worn all three sizes, I would say that my personal preference is the 43mm wide version, but I would gladly wear any of them. The cases are water-resistant to 30 meters, and 13.6, 13.69, and 13.95mm thick, respectively. Watch size is a matter of taste and not a matter of correctness. So the correct size for you will depend on your anatomy and, to a degree, the watch dial colors that you prefer. Breitling’s B01 automatic chronograph movement powers each of these watches and, for the first time in a Navitimer Chronograph piece, you can see the very nice movement through an exhibition caseback. This was designed by former Rolex engineers who worked on the chronograph movement inside the Daytona and is very accurate. Each is a COSC-certified Chronometer and operates at 4Hz with 70 hours of power reserve. The watch features the time and date (integrated into the lower subdial), as well as the 12-hour chronograph. All of the watches are available on a brown or black alligator strap, or a matching seven-link metal bracelet (steel or gold depending on the version). The bracelet option (in steel) costs just $400 more and also features a new butterfly-style deployant clasp, a serious upgrade from the previous fold-over deployant clasps.

Breitling Premier B01 Chronograph 42

Breitling’s horological journey through three generations of the founding family was “very much the history of the chronograph,” notes the brand’s historian Fred Mandelbaum. When Breitling revived the historic Premier line in 2019 after a 50-plus-year hiatus, the brand aimed to capture that vintage flair in a modern interpretation. Today, the Swiss heritage watchmaker is adding six new Breitling Premier B01 Chronograph 42 models, each in a 42mm case. Five are made of stainless steel and one of 18K rose gold, and all feature a COSC-certified manufacture caliber B01.
Breitling is synonymous with the chronograph. Through the early 20th century, the brand progressively developed its form and function with multiple patents as a utility timekeeper for the masses. But it was the third-generation leader Willy Breitling who elevated the family specialty, strategically turning the tool-watch chronograph into a style icon that we know today. Willy drew upon his business savvy to carve out a new category in the market for his dual-pusher chronograph as an everyday dress watch. Then came the Premier collection in 1943, which touted top-of-the-line quality and elegance for the fashionable set. These watches featured simple, clean designs inspired by the Art Deco style that was popular at the time. They were designed to be more refined and understated than Breitling’s other collections, which were primarily geared toward pilots and aviation enthusiasts.
The Breitling Premier B01 Chronograph 42 collection was also notable for its use of chronograph complications, which allowed wearers to measure elapsed time with a high degree of accuracy. This made the watches popular with athletes, scientists, and other professionals who needed to measure time precisely. Over the years, the Breitling Premier collection continued to evolve and improve. The watches were updated with modern materials and technology while still maintaining their classic and timeless design.
Fast forward to 2019. Under the new management of Georges Kern, Breitling revived the Premier line to pay homage to the brand’s glorious past. Mike did a detailed review of the Premier B01 Chronograph here. Staying true to the original “Premier” spirit, the remake boasted “the best caliber, best material, and best design.” In 2021, the brand brought back the full 1940s lineup with four new styles in the Premier Heritage collection, which Ben delved into in a showdown here. Breitling has also collaborated with several notable figures and organizations to produce limited-edition Premier watches. Among them are Bentley Motors and the Royal Air Force’s Red Arrows aerobatic display team.

The freshly unveiled Breitling Premier B01 Chronograph 42 model we see today is essentially the 2019 execution with a cosmetic makeover in line with the 2021 Heritage releases. The design details of the new Premier are more faithful to the distinctive features of the ancestral models. The signature grooves on the sides of the predominantly brushed case are here to stay, as are the slender fixed bezel and the rectangular pushers. On the twin-register dial, the applied Arabic numerals and the lumed syringe hands recall the vintage touches. A running small seconds sub-dial sits at 9 o’clock with a 30-minute totalizer mirroring it at 3 o’clock. The central chronograph seconds hand has a red tip, just like its 2019 predecessor. The date window also remains at 6 o’clock under the model name. Up close, all the contrasting textures are mesmerizing, and the detail work and finishing are impeccable.
Size-wise, the new Premier measures 42mm in diameter and 13.6mm in thickness. From lug to lug, it measures 50mm, and the lugs’ curvature works wonders to help wrap the watch around the wrist. On the side, its non-screw-down crown is fitted with two gaskets to ensure a water resistance rating of 100 meters. The case is further sealed by sapphire crystals on both sides, and the top cover is treated with a double-sided antireflective coating. Visible through the exhibition case back is the in-house automatic caliber B01. This latest iteration of the Breitling manufacture caliber 01 that powers the new Premier chronographs was redesigned in 2022 with a more compact oscillating weight.
Having first debuted in 2009, the B01 is one of Breitling’s most significant achievements in its long history of watchmaking. Needless to say, it has become one of the company’s signature features. It boasts a 334-part construction, including a column wheel and a vertical clutch. The latter controls the engagement of the chronograph function. It eliminates the “jumpy” start that can occur in chronographs with a lateral clutch, while the column wheel allows for smoother and more precise operation of the chronograph functions.

This chronograph caliber has been tested to superior technical standards and COSC-certified for accuracy within +6/-4 seconds per day. Breitling also subjects the movement to rigorous tests that emulate 16 years of regular use. These include shock (approximately 60,000 shocks at 500 G), the crown (more than 100,000 winds), rotor winding (3,456,000 turns), and the chronograph pushers (approximately 5,840 start-stop-reset engagements). The movement beats at a frequency of 28,000vph (4Hz) and provides a power reserve of 70 hours.

The B01 movement is used in several Breitling watch collections, including the Navitimer, Chronomat, and, of course, the Premier. It has become one of the brand’s most significant selling points as it demonstrates Breitling’s commitment to precision engineering and quality craftsmanship.
The six new Premier B01 Chronograph 42 models take after the classy tone-on-tone dial aesthetics of the Heritage collection. The stainless steel model offers five dial variations in salmon, blue, green, black, and cream. Rounding out the new lineup, the last version in 18K rose gold comes with a cream dial. All models are available with either a classic brown alligator strap or a seven-row metal bracelet with a folding buckle.

These new additions to the Breitling Premier collection offer a dressier character compared to the slightly sportier versions from 2019. That said, the bracelet ensures that they’re not a one-trick pony and remain versatile. The question is, though, which color do you choose? Do you go for classic black or blue? Or perhaps the salmon is proving to be too irresistible? Make sure to let us know in the comments, and don’t forget to say which strap option you’d go for as well!

Breitling Top Time B01

Originally launched in 2021, the Breitling Top Time Classic Cars series is the brand’s tribute to iconic American sports cars from the 1950s and 1960s. Much like the original Top Time chronograph, the modern Breitling Top Time collection represents a lighthearted break from tradition, and the Classic Cars series further leans into this spirit with bright colors and automotive-inspired design elements. The original Breitling Top Time Classic Cars series consisted of three different models that were each inspired by a different classic American Car, and although they weren’t limited to a specific number of examples, the series was only produced for a single year. Following the success of the original trio of models, Breitling is bringing back the Top Time Classic Cars series for 2023, and in addition to adding a new fourth member to the lineup, the brand is also giving the other three models a significant update compared to their predecessors from just a couple of years ago.
The latest addition to the Breitling Top Time Classic Cars collection for 2023 is the Ford Thunderbird edition, which features a white dial and a bright red strap. The other three models making their return as part of this second generation of Top Time Classic Cars watches are the Ford Mustang edition with a dark green dial, the Chevrolet Corvette version with a bright red dial, and the Shelby Cobra-inspired model, which features a blue dial with contrasting white registers. Additionally, similar to the first generation of Breitling Top Time Classic Cars watches, the Shelby Cobra edition features a two-register layout, while the rest of the models all have three chronograph registers on their dials. The primary reason for the different number of registers is due to the shape of the Shelby Cobra logo. Unlike the other three logos, which can comfortably fit under the Breitling emblem on the upper half of the dial, the Shelby Cobra logo is circular and requires more space. Relocating the logo to the lower half of the dial and having it take the place of the third chronograph register ultimately allows for a greater sense of balance and a less cluttered display.
Although the dials fitted to the new Breitling Top Time B01 Classic Cars watches all offer a similar overall appearance to those from the first generation, they also incorporate a number of small updates and refinements. While the registers still appear in the collection’s signature “squircle” shape (a mixture between a square and a circle), the order of the registers has now changed due to the use of a different movement, and the running seconds sub-dial has moved to 9 o’clock location. In addition to other small updates relating to the tachymeter scales that surround the periphery of the dials, the Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Corvette, and Shelby Cobra models all have a subtle tone-on-tone racing stripe running down the center of their dials, which reveals itself when viewed in bright light.
From an external perspective, the new generation of Breitling Top Time B01 Classic Cars models offers much of the same shape and profile as their first-generation counterparts. However, while the first generation features a 40mm case, the new Top Time Classic Cars watches have stainless steel cases that measure 41mm in diameter by 13.8mm-thick, with 20mm lugs and an overall lug-to-lug distance of 50.36mm. Similar to the first generation, a cambered sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment on both sides sits above the dial, while a signed winding crown at the 3 o’clock location flanked by two pump-style pushers offers access to the movement. Additionally, just like the previous generation, water resistance for the new Top Time B01 Classic Cars watches comes in at a fairly respectable 100 meters.
With that in mind, one of the most significant updates to the case of the new Breitling Top Time B01 Classic Cars models is in regard to their casebacks. While the first generation had solid stainless steel casebacks, the new Top Time Classic Cars watches all have sapphire display casebacks that have the logos of their respective cars printed on the underside surfaces of the display windows. Generally speaking, I’m not the biggest fan of graphics on display casebacks, as they can often defeat the entire purpose of having a display window in the first place. However, the logos are quite small on the new Top Time Classic Cars watches, and since they sit right above the axle of the rotor, they ultimately do very little in terms of actually obscuring a view of the movement.
Powering the new generation of Breitling Top Time B01 Classic Cars watches is the brand’s manufacture Caliber 01 automatic chronograph movement. An integrated self-winding chronograph that operates with a column wheel and a vertical clutch, the Breitling Cal. 01 runs at a frequency of 28,800vph (4 Hz) while offering users a power reserve of approximately 70 hours. Breitling first unveiled its Caliber 01 manufacture movement in 2009, and in the years since making its debut, the Cal. B01 has steadily been making its way throughout the brand’s catalog, and it now serves as the foundation for a number of other related Breitling movements. In addition to being a proven design, the Breitling Cal. 01 is also a COSC-certified chronometer, meaning that the new generation of Top Time Classic Cars watches is guaranteed to keep time within -4/+6 seconds per day.
All of the new Breitling Top Time B01 Classic Cars watches are available with the option of either two-piece calfskin leather straps or stainless steel mesh bracelets fitted with butterfly-style folding clasps. Tapering from 20mm at the lugs to 18mm where they meet their signed stainless steel deployant buckles, the leather straps for the new Top Time Classic Cars series come in complementary colors for the dials of the watches, with the Ford Thunderbird model receiving a red strap, the Chevrolet Corvette edition fitted with a black strap, and both the Ford Mustang and Shelby Cobra versions receiving dark brown straps. Additionally, regardless of color, all of the leather straps feature Breitling’s signature bright yellow lining and a racing-style perforated pattern on their outer surfaces.

Breitling Chronomat B01 42

Breathing new life into old things is a particular talent of today’s luxury Swiss watch industry. The formula is simple. Take something from the past, adopt it for the tastes of today, and make sure when people see it they aren’t quite sure what era it was made for. Breitling’s re-launch of the Chronomat with the tube-style “Rouleaux” bracelet is very much an exercise in what today’s watch industry does best. Breitling quietly puts the previous Chronomat model to rest (it had been produced for a decade or more), and then brings back something from the Breitling world that I don’t believe retailers have seen in their shops since the 1990s.
The bad news is that terms like “Chronomat” have become a lot like “911” (in Porsche terms). They do mean a type of car/watch, but they don’t necessarily refer to any one particular item. So let’s call this watch by its slightly more precise (albeit just as vague) name, the Breitling Chronomat Bo1 42. Other parts of the team have seen this watch before me. Launched in 2020 during the pandemic, it was not possible for us to all meet with Breitling at one inclusive event. aBlogtoWatch first launched the Breitling Chronomat B01 42 watch here, and then a bit later our David Bredan went hands-on with the larger Breitling Chronomat Bo1 42 timepeice collection here.
The question I wanted to answer for myself with the Breitling Chronomat B01 42 was how well it stood up to the competition given what works with collectors today. With prices starting at just above $8,000, the Chronomat is not just another fun aviation-inspired tool watch, but a serious luxury item that buyers will need to pit against Rolex, Omega, Blancpain, Glashutte Original, TAG Heuer, IWC, etc…. The challenge for Breitling is to produce a product that does three things well at the same time. The first thing is that the watch needs to fit the mold of a traditional tool watch. Second is that the watch needs to be visually handsome and complementary to the style of the wearer. Third, the watch needs to come from a brand whose appeal and popularity today merit luxury positioning and buying confidence.

Many would argue that compared to a lot of other brands Breitling is more of those things than much of the competition – especially in regard to branding and luxury positioning. Currently, under the leadership of Georges Kern, Breitling was fortunate to get a leg up on other brands by having been able to release a number of new watches late 2019 and early 2020 (whereas most of the competition was waiting to release new watches that trade shows canceled by the pandemic). Breitling has also been investing a lot in marketing prior to the pandemic, and the momentum of that noise has carried on into the first half of 2020. For now, Breitling is rather hot with collectors, which means that an attractive and spirited new product collection will command even more attention and be gobbled up by consumers now versus after the market has had time to become more familiar with the product.
The core story behind the Chronomat is the type of military tie-in which is at the basis of so many great timepiece tales. In around 1984 Breitling produced a watch for a squadron of Italian airforce pilots (the Frecce Tricolori) that eventually turned into the first Chronomat models. This is when Breitling debuted both the Rouleaux bracelet and the rotating bezel with the “rider tabs” (that I called “bezel claws”). This look (especially the bezel) dominated the look of Breitling watches for nearly a decade. When Breitling started to make their own in-house caliber B01 automatic chronograph movements, the Chronomat lost that bezel and bracelet – turning into something a bit more generic (albeit still very nice) and help carry Breitling through an important era. On aBlogtoWatch I reviewed the previous generation Breitling Chronomat 44 GMT here. While it features the same movement, the Breitling Chronomat Bo1 42 is a very different watch. What I find interesting is that while it is inspired by nearly all generations of Breitling Chronomat watches, it ends up being something entirely new altogether.
The case size has been something of a conversation topic. People are trying to lean toward more comfortable and easy to wear watches – which means some larger Breitling watches of old are more passe in style. The previous-gen Chronomat’s largest case size was 47mm-wide — clearly massive for many wrists. The 2020 Chronomat B01 42 is 42mm-wide and about 15mm-thick. It wears large but not too large, in my opinion. The sense of size is really a function of all the nicely polished steel and the wide lugs combined with the dramatic tapering of the Rouleaux bracelet. As always for Breitling, the steel case (two-tone or an all gold version is also available) is exceptionally well-made with excellent finishing. I have always stood by the opinion that Breitling makes some of the best cases on the market when it comes to crisp details and the quality of polishes and surface treatments.
Breitling also now has a watch that at least in appearance competes in the “steel watch with integrated bracelet market.” For me, that is the best trick that the Chronomat B01 42 plays since it isn’t traditionally thought of as a watch that fits that style — now it does. From a construction standpoint, the new bracelet is nothing like the traditional Rouleaux bracelets of a few decades ago. These new ones are built more like contemporary luxury products with parts being individually machines and polished, and generally using much more sturdy pieces of metal. Old Rouleaux bracelet would bend and stretch over time. This bracelet doesn’t appear to be prone to any of that type of wear over time. The fresh form of the bracelet is what is important. It is comfortable yes, but more important is that it sticks out and helps the experience of wearing a Chronomat B01 42 be more distinctive. This will only help increase the value of the watch for many consumers, as people don’t want generic luxury watch experiences at these price points.

The new rotating bezel design is clearly inspired by the original Chronomat watches, but they lack a lot of the funky character. Breitling did an amazing job of making them feel refined and high-end, for sure. That said, the oddity of the screwed-on “rider tabs” and the peripheral screws that jut out are gone. The bezel of the new Chronomat collection does even have those screws around the periphery, but they are effectively minimized such that you can’t really call them a key part of the piece’s personality. It isn’t that the bezel is a missed opportunity, but rather that Breitling made the specific decision it should not be a major part of the new Chronomat’s distinctive features — they left that to the bracelet.
Many brands including Breitling have delighted in updated vintage “hot dog on a stick” style hour and minute hands to make them feel a bit more modern and angular. Likewise, the new Chronomat’s hands take the shape of vintage Chronomat watches and render them for today’s tastes. The tri-compax array chronograph dials of the Chronomat watches are very refined and elegant and demonstrate a sort of simple conservatism that today’s Breitling enjoys. The dial experience works because of the familiar look and the good use of colors and materials. Breitling isn’t innovating much in this area, but I don’t think the dial will leave anyone feeling anything but, “That’s a handsome watch.”

I do like that Breitling managed to engineer out the screw-down chronograph pushers. This vestigial element was designed to offer more water and elemental resistance, but for the most part simply prevented more people from using the chronograph. The watch still manages to be water-resistant to 200 meters without the screw-down chronograph pushers — a success, in my opinion. I also like the slightly oversized look of the crown and the design of the entire crown and pusher region of the watch on the right of the case. Depending on your taste and budget, Breitling offers the Chronomat B01 42 case and bracelet in all steel, or with various degrees of gold for two-tone models. An all-gold model exists, but I do not yet believe there is a solid-gold bracelet option. Eventually, there will be, and that will make one hell of a bold statement on the wrist for those who can fork over for it.
With variety in mind, Breitling designed the Chronomat B01 42 to be available in literally dozens of versions of the years. Simply by swapping colors and materials, the chore Chronomat B01 42 case with chronograph movement can be rendered in so many interesting ways. I happen to love those dials with contrasting subdials, and for now, I happen to prefer the watch in all steel. The movement isn’t new, but Breitling’s in-house-made caliber B01 automatic chronograph is a great performer and has held up well. It still looks great in execution, and while not industry-leading in any regard, is a stable 4Hz frequency movement with about 70 hours of power reserve. You can view the movement through the sapphire crystal window on the rear of the watch.

Breitling has a new hit with the Chronomat B01 42. I think most watch lovers will enjoy it since it combines conservative masculinity with trendiness and high-quality construction. Yes, the base price is over $8,000, but these are good looking and sturdy-feeling watches that aren’t out of league at all for the price. Mr. Kern has another hit on his hands for a brand that is doing great if he can maintain the momentum. How possible that will be during pandemic times has yet to be seen, but at least for him, Breitling has a leg up on most everyone else.

Breitling Avenger Chronograph GMT 45

When I think of Breitling, I usually think of the Avenger series or the Superocean, and even though these days the trend has been towards smaller watches, I think this Breitling Avenger Chronograph 45 is so iconic and a great watch regardless of the size. Now it’s true that I used to own a Breitling Avenger Seawolf and yes I did end up selling that watch. Why you ask? Because of the size. That’s really a long story for another day, but basically, I had always wanted one and by the time I got one, I really wasn’t into big watches like that anymore. Still, I don’t regret owning it for the time I had it and even though this Avenger chrono is still a large watch, it is not as thick as the Seawolf and there are a few other differences as well, that would make it more daily-able-at least for me.
This watch comes to me from Saltzman’s Watches of Newport, who graciously loaned this watch to me for review. They are of course an Authorized Dealer and if you are interested in this watch or others that they carry, just shoot them a phone call or email, tell them you saw this review and what watch you are interested in. All their info will be in the specifications below.
The Breitling Avenger Chronograph 45 has that famous rider tab bezel Breitling is known for, in this case, a beautiful matte blue dial with a white gold wing logo, and overall there is no mistaking this watch for any other. I mentioned in the video how the Avenger lineup doesn’t change that much over time, if you saw one of these models from 10 years ago, while there are some differences, you can easily tell they are the same model. But the more I thought about it, the more I realized that is a good thing. Breitling is a brand that is not copied often, unlike Rolex, Bell and Ross, Omega, Audemars Piquet, and many others. Hell Maurice Lacroix, a bigger named brand in their own right kinda ripped off AP with their latest models, but look around at all the different brands, all the different micro brands and you really will not see watches that look like Breitling.
Now people can argue why that is, but one thing is for sure when you wear a Breitling, you aren’t really going to have to worry about people mistaking it for anything else. When I was talking to Saltzman’s and setting up reviewing some watches for them, they gave me a few options for the initial review. I took one look at this blue dial model and knew I wanted to review this one. I hope to review a few different brands that they carry moving forward, but I wanted to start with a brand I love and a model I was somewhat familiar with.
Yes, I have talked about this many times, but before I knew what a watch enthusiast or a WIS was, I was enamored with Breitling from a young age. Whether it was a billboard or a watch magazine, or even just an ad in a non-watch magazine, Breitling always captured my inner watch nerd more than any other brand. I have no issue stating that in the last 30 years my tastes have absolutely changed and big massive watches just are not my thing anymore, but I still love most of what the brand puts out, even though I may not want to wear it myself.
The 45mm case on this Breitling Avenger Chronograph 45 is brushed on the top and the sides, very different from my Seawolf which had a lot of high polish going on, and while this is still very thick at almost 17mm in height, it doesn’t wear like a brick on my wrist, it wears flatter and does wrap around my wrist a little better than I thought it would. Of course with it being the Avenger, you have that familiar knurled screw-down crown and being a chronograph, large easy-to-use pushers, that are not just functional, but beautiful as well.
That rider tab bezel is fully polished on the sides, with a combo of brushed and polished on top, and is just always a joy to turn, but yes, this being a stainless steel bezel, and a lot of mirror polishing going, it is going to get scratched. Nothing you can do about it, same with a Doxa as an example. And this is an expensive watch at $5,500, no doubt about it, but watches are meant to be worn, and I have seen versions of this watch really well worn and used, and I still think they look good even with all the scratches, but that’s just me. A massive lume pip sits at the top of the bezel, ready to be seen in the dark.
The blue dial of this Breitling Avenger Chronograph 45 is actually pretty clean for what it is, and I love the yellow accents against that muted blue dial. As I stated earlier, that wing logo is actually white gold, not just some chrome-finished steel, and even though it’s not something you can touch or really feel, there is just something about it being made of a precious metal that I appreciate. The indices are applied, big thick rectangles with strips of lume sandwiched between them, and a pretty traditional setup for a 7750 Chronograph (which is what this movement is based on) and the date located at the 3. Nothing revolutionary here of course, but a good-looking dial.
Above the dial though, is the cambered sapphire crystal, and it’s a beautiful crystal and the blue AR coating does look good but my problem with Breitling and a few others are the outer AR coating. Breitling uses both inner and outer AR coatings and they just aren’t as scratch-resistant as the sapphire itself. It can be removed by someone who is qualified (not many are surprisingly) and it can be reapplied by Breitling or a Breitling service center, but it is one thing I wish that Breitling would make optional and not standard.
When it comes to the case back, this may be one of the few times that I wish I could see the movement. While the Breitling 13 is a COSC-certified movement, it probably isn’t overlay decorated, most likely just a custom signed rotor, but this very plain engraved case back is not what I was expecting, especially on a watch that costs almost $6,000. Maybe I am being picky, but I was hoping for at least a stamped wing logo on the back.
The Breitling Avenger Chronograph 45 comes on a choice of a few straps. This sample was sent to me on a blue canvas with a yellow leather backing, and it is a very nice strap in my opinion. I love both the way it looks and feels and that yellow leather is just eye-catching. This version of the strap has a tang buckle but you can get a push-button deployant buckle as well as a Breitling bracelet and of course, the price goes up with each upgrade that you do. With a weight of 157 grams, you would think a strap would not balance the watch out at all, but it really does, and I think it felt very comfortable on my 7 1/2 inch wrist. Yes, this is a 55mm lug to lug, and yes it is a heavy piece, but somehow it does work on my wrist, though I still don’t know if I would want to rock this daily, after a few days of wearing it, who knows, maybe I could get used to it again. Unfotunbaly I was not able to wear this piece like I normally would and I did test the lume, but not as I would normally, which would be wearing it in many different dark situations, one of them being to bed. The lume is bright though and it will easily last quite a few hours, about 5 or so, if not more, and this piece just looks really good in the dark.
I am glad I had a chance to review this piece and even though it is not the latest model from Breitling, I still think these are great-looking pieces and can easily understand why someone would want this in their collection. My tastes probably would lean more towards a Superocean these days, I love the look of the new ones and the 42mm model is one I could see me wearing daily, if not even being one that stays on the wrist a lot more than others, but there is something about this big and bold Breitling Avenger Chronograph 45, especially in this blue. There are other colors available and if you want to see more, please check out Saltzman’s, as they carry a lot of Breitling models, amongst other brands, and even if you are not interested in purchasing this piece, give their website a look, it would be appreciated.
As for this model, Breitling will always have a special place in my heart, no matter the model, and even though l love some more than others, the Avenger series is a staple in the Breitling lineup for a reason and I don’t see it going anywhere anytime soon.

Breitling Endurance Pro Black Yellow

Designed to be both a lightweight watch for athletes and a casual, everyday sports chronograph, the Endurance Pro perfectly blends high precision & innovative technology with a vibrant & colorful design. It is the ultimate athleisure watch. Designed for men and women whose active lives blend a professional mindset with a sporty lifestyle, the Breitling Endurance Pro is equal to the challenges of a rigorous workout but fashionable enough for everyday wear. The Endurance Pro features an ultra-light Breitlight case, a robust material 3.3 times lighter than titanium and 5.8 times lighter than stainless steel. Non-magnetic, thermally stable and hypoallergenic, Breitlight is highly resistant to scratches, traction and corrosion. It also has a touch that is warmer than metal and a slightly textured effect accentuating the originality of the design. Exclusive to Breitling, it is 100% Swiss-made. Offered with a set of colorful dial and rubber straps fitting a Breitlight double tang-type buckle, the Endurance Pro can also be paired with one of Breitling’s colorful Outerknown ECONYL yarn single-piece strap. Powering the Endurance Pro is Breitling’s Caliber 82, a COSC-certified SuperQuartz chronograph delivering exceptional precision.
Introduced in 2020, the Breitling Pro Endurance pairs an ultra-light titapast (‘Breitlight’) case with a SuperQuartz chronograph movement (caliber B82. Reference X82310E51B1S1 has an black dial with yellow accents, and a black rubber strap. This was added to the collection in 2023.
Whether you’re a fighter pilot, a civilian aviator, or just a dyed-in-the-wool tool watch enthusiast, there’s a pretty good chance that your first brush with Breitling was one of its Professional watches – a broad line of stylish quartz-powered references that has remained one of the brand’s core collections since its informal debut as the Aerospace in 1985. Over the last three and a half decades, the Professional umbrella has evolved dramatically, from the entry-level Aerospace to more feature-rich offerings like the rugged Chronospace, the state-of-the-art Exospace, and the mighty Emergency – a legendary adventure watch capable of summoning a helicopter (ie: the world’s most expensive Uber ride) for when things go really sideways. Given its cool, modern aesthetic and long legacy of highly accurate, multi-function utility watches, the Professional line is a natural home for Breitling’s new Endurance Pro – another category-specific tool watch, this time designed with athletes in mind.
For the next two weeks, the global athlete community can participate in Breitling’s Endurance Pro Challenge on the fitness app Strava, with the aim of completing 500 minutes of any sporting activity (running, cycling, swimming, or any combination are all fair game) in the two weeks following the time of this writing, to be put into the ahem running to win a Colnago bike, a Breitling Endurance Pro watch, and a Breitling cycling kit. Why 500 minutes? Well, it’s a little essentially an eight-hour window, and around the same amount of time it would take an elite triathlete to complete an Ironman – luckily, you’ll be able to break it into as many sessions as you need, such as long as you’re done in the 14 days following the 26th of August. Breitling’s own professional athlete squad, including three-time Ironman World Champion Jan Frodeno, and multiple cycling Grand Tour winner Vincenzo Nibali will both be participating in the challenge.
Available in a multitude of colorful strap and dial options, and built around an ultralight composite case, the design brief for the Endurance feels a bit like it’s paying homage to the original fiberglass-cased TAG Heuer F1 watches from the late eighties which were also marketed for sporting use. In many ways, this particular reference was the first Swiss watch for an entire generation of cyclists, who might remember them being worn by the stars of the American 7-Eleven cycling team, like Bob Roll, Davis Phinney, and Andy Hampsten. Unlike the rather crude F1 watches (nostalgic as they may be) though, the Endurance is a sleek, premium, and far more modern affair that strikes just the right balance between style and utility.