The Breitling Navitimer is an iconic timepiece, with a history of association with aviation in both a civilian and military sense. As the name suggests, the watch also works as a navigation device, with a slide rule bezel that can be used for mathematical calculations, including distance, average speed and fuel consumption.
A watch from the Breitling Navitimer range.
The Navitimer has recently been updated, with the newer version being limited in number. 2000 have been made in a classic stainless steel, and another 200 have been produced in 18 carat red gold. Each of these limited edition models bears an individual number engraved on the side of the case middle.
There has been a long association between Breitling and the aviation industry. Since 1936, the British Royal Air Force have issued Breitling watches to its air crews, The watch’s design has changed remarkably little over the years, with the exception of improved technology, which lends itself to collectors and watch appreciators who have a good appreciation for history.
The Breitling Navitimer has a 42 hour power reserve with a self-winding feature, and has three sub-dials, with the Swiss Made returning to the 6 o’clock position. The subdials are deep, and the watch features an attractive curved, double anti-reflection coated sapphire glass. It is water resistant of up to 30 metres, with a diameter of 41.8mm and thickness of 14.6mm. The back of the case is also transparent, which allows for the enjoyment of being able to view the watch’s movements without interfering with the mechanics.