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Model Name:
Sinn 903 St "Navitimer"
Watch added to favourite list
Reference:
903.040
Price ($)
$
3300
Country:
Germany
A.I. Rating
7.9
Crowd Rating:
1740
Watch Description
Brushing up on our Navitimer history
In 1952 Breitling birthed its legendary Navitimer into the world, becoming a company famously associated with aviation. Shortly after, the Navitimer was being produced for the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) which made the Navitimer one of the most iconic watch models created by Breitling.
It seemed like the Breitling Navitimer became the company’s cash cow, but the good times weren’t going to last. In the 1970’s, the quartz crisis was being felt in full force by the Swiss watch industry and Breitling was hit hard. Staff were laid off, and the decline in mechanical watch sales meant parts of the company were liquidated, closing its doors in 1979.
How did Sinn come into the equation?
The rights to the Navitimer were sold onto Sicura and Sinn, while the remaining Breitling stock (mostly cases and dials) were bought by Sinn, Ollech and Wajs and another company. Sinn bought the rights to the Breitling 806 and 809 Navitimer models as well as 500 cases and dials, keen to produce a pilot’s watch with a logarithmic scale and slide rule function that made the Breitling Navitimer so recognizable.
Sicura on the other hand continued to produce watches under the Breitling name, owning the rights to the names Breitling and Navitimer. Sinn focused on developing the Navitimer model with innovative technology, which accelerated when Lothar Schmidt took over Sinn in 1993.
Since the founding of Sinn in 1961, the company built a reputation in horology for creating some of the best tool watches in the industry based on cutting-edge technologies, from Ar-Dehumidifying and antimagnetic construction to Tegiment steel hardening and temperature stabilized movements. Sinn were also favoured for their tool watches by the German police and fire service, astronauts, and pilots with their range of TESTAF-certified pilot watches.
Product Link:
41
0
22
14.5
100
Steel - 316L
Round
Sapphire
Screw-in
Automatic
LJP 8000
0
Black
A.I. Watch Review:
<p class="font_8">### Sinn 903 St "Navitimer" Model 903.04 Review by A.I. WatchMetrics
#### Watch Summary:
The Sinn 903 St "Navitimer" Model 903.04 is a versatile timepiece that blends aviation heritage with modern functionality. Classified primarily as a **Sport/Active** watch, it features a robust design suitable for pilots and aviation enthusiasts. The watch is powered by an automatic movement, offering a power reserve of approximately 42 hours. Its standout features include a slide rule bezel, which is a nod to its aviation roots, and a chronograph function, making it ideal for those who appreciate technical precision and historical significance. The Sinn 903 is intended for individuals who value both functionality and a connection to aviation history, appealing to pilots and watch collectors alike.
#### Overall Watch Rating: 7.9/10.0
- **Functions Metric (9.0/10.0)**
The Sinn 903 excels in functionality with its slide rule bezel, chronograph, and water resistance up to 100 meters, making it suitable for both aviation and everyday use. The lume on the hands and indices ensures readability in low-light conditions.
- **Movement Metric (8.5/10.0)**
The watch is equipped with the Sellita SW500 automatic movement, known for its reliability and precision. The movement includes a chronograph complication, adding to its technical appeal, though it lacks the high-end finishing of luxury counterparts.
- **Complications Metric (8.5/10.0)**
The inclusion of a chronograph and slide rule bezel enhances the watch's complexity, offering practical tools for aviation enthusiasts. These features are well-integrated, contributing to the watch's overall appeal.
- **History & Innovation Metric (8.0/10.0)**
The Sinn 903 pays homage to the iconic Navitimer design, maintaining its historical significance in aviation. While not groundbreaking, it preserves the legacy of pilot watches with modern updates.
- **Dials & Design Metric (8.0/10.0)**
The watch features a classic pilot watch design with a detailed dial and legible markers. The craftsmanship is solid, though it lacks the artisanal elements found in higher-end models.
- **Material Metric (7.5/10.0)**
Constructed with stainless steel, the watch offers durability and a polished finish. While the materials are standard for its category, they are well-executed and appropriate for its intended use.
- **Versatility Metric (7.5/10.0)**
The Sinn 903 is versatile enough for both professional and casual settings, though its aviation-specific features may limit its appeal outside of enthusiast circles.
- **Rarity Metric (7.0/10.0)**
While not a limited edition, the Sinn 903's connection to the Navitimer legacy adds a layer of exclusivity. Its production numbers are moderate, making it accessible yet distinctive.
- **Brand Metric (7.0/10.0)**
Sinn is respected for its robust, functional designs, particularly in the aviation and diving sectors. However, it lacks the widespread recognition of more prestigious luxury brands.
#### Celebrity and Historical Figures:
While no specific celebrities are known for wearing the Sinn 903, the brand has a strong association with professional pilots and aviation enthusiasts. Sinn watches are often favored by those who appreciate precision engineering and functional design, aligning with the brand's reputation for reliability and technical excellence.</p>
