Following swiftly onwards from the revamped Breitling Colt collection, it is now the turn of the Breitling Transocean to be reinterpreted. The original Transocean was released in 1958 as a direct response to the global expansion in air travel, and this elegant timepiece was an instant success story. A self-winding wristwatch, the Transocean was the perfect fit for Breitling’s assemblage of aeronautical timepieces, and this trustworthy family of watches has remained in perpetual service for more than 5 decades. That long duration doesn’t mean that the Transocean has stood still though, hence the recent introduction of the Transocean 38, a brand new ‘contemporary classic’.
The new Transocean 38 still embodies the spirit of long-distance air travel – such an inspiration is intrinsically linked to the Transocean range, after all – yet a variety of subtle changes have been implemented to great effect. The 38 mm diameter of this timepiece has been especially selected for its suitability with regards to all wrists, and the bezel and the lugs have been similarly fashioned according to slender proportions as well. This means that the Transocean 38 is never overbearing or bulky, but nor is it ever non-descript, as the aesthetics of this revamped collection are judged to perfection.
Relatively understated – another hallmark of the Transocean – the watch retains the golden ‘B’ initial that served as Breitling’s inaugural logo, and this applied insignia is arrayed at the centre of a number of hour markers. Designed with an exceptionally readable dial, the date aperture has been moved beneath the 12 o’clock position; a small adjustment that nevertheless imbues the Transocean with a delightful sense of symmetry, given the 6 o’clock situation of the small second counter. The dial of the Transocean 38 can be procured in either stylish black – for an added contrast – or mother of pearl for a softer visual theme, whilst the embossed caseback displays a number of historic Breitling emblems. In terms of appearance then, there is a lot for Transocean aficionados to celebrate.
However, as an aviation timepiece, the Transocean 38 is also eminently practical. The sapphire crystal is glare-proofed on each facing, the movement is certified to chronometer standard and the casing is water-resistant to 100 metres. By Breitling’s own admission, the Transocean 38 outshines even its illustrious predecessors in the technical department, which is undoubtedly no small feat. To complement the choice of dials, and to cement the Transocean 38 as a timepiece for either masculine or feminine usage, there is also a wide choice of bracelets on offer, meeting the requirements of many unique preferences.
From the ‘traditional’ meshed steel strap, to a perforated or leather bracelet, this Transocean has all bases covered, and an extra dash of glamour can also be attained by the addition of diamond and gem-set details on the bezel or dial. Equally at home within the high-performance environment of a professional pilot, or when acting as a gorgeous jewellery statement, the Transocean 38 is first-class in all departments, and is available today to own at Banks Lyon Jewellers. We have each and every variant of the Transocean 38 on offer, and we’ll doubtless bring you more details about the specific models in a future article. To find out more about these Breitling watches right now, don’t hesitate to contact us now by calling 01524 38 48 58 or emailing [email protected].
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