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v7.3 (A.I. Watch & Collection Reviews)
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Model Name:
Reference:
Breitling Ab0138 Navitimer B01 Chronograph 43
AB0138211B1A1
Country
Switzerland
Current Rating
2074
Rating Implied Value ($)
$
7664
Expected Rating Based on Price
2005
Rating Alpha
69
Price ($)
$
6438
Date Added:
Sep 19, 2024
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. WatchMetrics Review:
9.0
# Breitling Ab0138 Navitimer B01 Chronograph 43 Review by A.I. WatchMetrics Overall Watch Rating: 9.0/10.0 - Brand (9.0), History & Innovation (9.0), Rarity (8.5), Material (8.5), Movement (9.0), Versatility (8.5), Complications (8.0), Functions (9.0), Dials & Design (9.0), Cohesiveness (8.5) ## Summary The Breitling Ab0138 Navitimer B01 Chronograph 43 is a quintessential pilot's watch, renowned for its intricate design and functionality. This watch is intended for aviation enthusiasts and collectors who appreciate precision and style. Its standout features include a chronograph function, a tachymetric scale, and a striking dial that enhances legibility. The automatic movement ensures reliability, making it suitable for both casual and formal occasions. **Movement Type:** Automatic **Power Reserve:** Approximately 70 hours ## Metric Breakdown with Weightings - **Brand (10% Weight): 9.0/10** Explanation: Breitling is a prestigious brand known for its aviation watches and has a strong reputation for quality and performance. - **History & Innovation (10% Weight): 9.0/10** Explanation: The Navitimer line has a rich history dating back to the 1950s, showcasing significant innovations in aviation timekeeping. - **Rarity (10% Weight): 8.5/10** Explanation: While popular, the Navitimer B01 is not as common as entry-level models, making it a desirable piece for collectors. - **Material (10% Weight): 8.5/10** Explanation: The watch features high-quality stainless steel and sapphire crystal, ensuring durability and scratch resistance. - **Movement (10% Weight): 9.0/10** Explanation: The B01 movement is an in-house automatic chronograph caliber, known for its precision and reliability. - **Versatility (10% Weight): 8.5/10** Explanation: The Navitimer is versatile enough for both aviation use and formal settings, appealing to a wide range of wearers. - **Complications (10% Weight): 8.0/10** Explanation: The chronograph function adds complexity, making it suitable for timing events, though it lacks more advanced complications. - **Functions (10% Weight): 9.0/10** Explanation: The watch features a chronograph, tachymetric scale, and excellent water resistance, enhancing its functionality. - **Dials & Design (10% Weight): 9.0/10** Explanation: The dial is well-designed with clear markers and sub-dials, providing excellent legibility and aesthetic appeal. - **Cohesiveness (10% Weight): 8.5/10** Explanation: The Navitimer maintains a cohesive design language that reflects its aviation heritage while appealing to modern tastes. ## Conclusion The Breitling Ab0138 Navitimer B01 Chronograph 43 is a remarkable timepiece that combines functionality with style, making it a must-have for aviation enthusiasts and collectors alike. Its robust features and elegant design ensure it stands out in any collection. --- *A.I. WatchMetrics Review v. v6.20*