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Model Name:
Breitling Ab0138 Navitimer B01 Chronograph 43
Watch added to favourite list
Reference:
AB0138211B1A1
Price ($)
$
6438
Country:
Switzerland
A.I. Rating
8.2
Crowd Rating:
2074
Watch Description
Breitling’s iconic pilot’s chronograph – for the journey. In 1952, Willy Breitling developed a wrist-worn chronograph with a circular slide rule that would allow pilots to perform all necessary flight calculations. Two years later, the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) announced the design as its official timepiece. The “navigation timer” – or Navitimer – was born. The AOPA was (and remains) the largest pilots’ club in the world, counting nearly every US aviator among its ranks. As the defacto pilot’s watch throughout the glory days of civil aviation, the Navitimer was worn by airline captains and aircraft enthusiasts. It even made its way into space on the wrist of astronaut Scott Carpenter in 1962. And it wasn’t only pilots drawn to the watch’s irrepressible aesthetic. Celebrities of the day such as Miles Davis and Serge Gainsbourg were devotees, proving that the Navitimer had style as well as function. There have been many iterations of Breitling’s icon since its debut 70 years ago, but this new Navitimer captures its most classic features, while enhancing them with modern refinements. A flattened slide rule and a domed crystal create the illusion of a sleeker profile. Alternating polished and brushed metal elements give a lustrous, yet understated finish. Most notably, new colors in shades of blue, green and copper, define the updated dial options. And if there is one update sure to spark nostalgia, it’s the return of the AOPA wings to their original position at 12 o’clock. For 70 years, Breitling’s original pilot’s watch has been beloved by aviators and tastemakers in equal measure. Worn by astronauts in space and the biggest stars on earth, it is Breitling’s most iconic timepiece and one of the most recognizable watches of all time.
43
49
22
13.6
30
Steel - 316L
Round
Sapphire
?
Automatic
Breitling 02
70
Silver
A.I. Watch Review:
<p class="font_8">**Breitling Ab0138 Navitimer B01 Chronograph 43 Model AB0138211B1A1 Review by A.I. WatchMetrics**
### Watch Summary:
The Breitling Navitimer B01 Chronograph 43 is a quintessential pilot's watch, renowned for its aviation heritage and technical prowess. This model is classified under the **Sport/Active** category due to its robust build and functional design, ideal for aviation enthusiasts and professionals. The watch features an automatic movement with the in-house Breitling Caliber B01, offering a power reserve of approximately 70 hours. Its standout features include a slide rule bezel for aviation calculations, a chronograph function, and a high level of craftsmanship, making it a favorite among pilots and watch collectors alike.
### Overall Watch Rating: 8.2/10.0
- **Movement Metric (9.0/10.0)**
The Breitling Caliber B01 is an in-house automatic movement known for its precision and reliability. It features a column-wheel chronograph mechanism, offering a 70-hour power reserve, which is impressive for a chronograph of this complexity.
- **Functions Metric (8.8/10.0)**
The Navitimer excels with its chronograph function, slide rule bezel for calculations, and water resistance suitable for everyday use. These features enhance its practicality for aviation and general use.
- **Dials & Design Metric (8.5/10.0)**
The watch showcases a classic Navitimer design with a detailed dial, featuring applied markers and a slide rule bezel. The craftsmanship is evident in its intricate dial layout and high-quality finishing.
- **Brand Metric (8.5/10.0)**
Breitling is a well-respected brand in the luxury watch market, known for its aviation-inspired timepieces and robust designs. The Navitimer is one of its iconic models, contributing to its strong brand reputation.
- **History & Innovation Metric (8.3/10.0)**
The Navitimer has a rich history as a tool watch for pilots, with its slide rule bezel being a significant innovation in aviation watches. Its continued relevance and updates reflect Breitling's commitment to innovation.
- **Material Metric (8.0/10.0)**
The watch is crafted from high-quality stainless steel, offering durability and a polished finish. While it lacks exotic materials, its construction is solid and reliable.
- **Complications Metric (7.8/10.0)**
The chronograph and slide rule bezel are the primary complications, both well-executed and integral to the watch's functionality. However, the lack of additional complications limits its score.
- **Versatility Metric (7.5/10.0)**
While primarily a pilot's watch, the Navitimer's design allows it to be worn in various settings, from casual to semi-formal. Its versatility is somewhat limited by its sporty aesthetic.
- **Rarity Metric (7.0/10.0)**
The Navitimer is a popular model with significant production, making it less rare. However, its iconic status and specific model variations add some exclusivity.
### Celebrity and Historical Figures:
The Breitling Navitimer has been worn by numerous celebrities and historical figures, including astronaut Scott Carpenter, who wore a Navitimer during his space missions. The watch's association with aviation and space exploration has cemented its status as a legendary timepiece in both fields.</p>
