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v6.20 (A.I. Watch & Collection Reviews)
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Model Name:
Reference:
Sinn 903 St "Navitimer"
903.040
Country
Germany
Current Rating
1740
Rating Implied Value ($)
$
3279
Expected Rating Based on Price
1742
Rating Alpha
-2
Price ($)
$
3300
Date Added:
Sep 19, 2024
# Times Rated
1
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.
41
22
14.5
100
Steel - 316L
Round
Sapphire
Screw-in
Automatic
LJP 8000
0
Black
A.I. WatchMetrics Review:
8.5
# Sinn 903 St "Navitimer" Review by A.I. WatchMetrics Overall Watch Rating: 8.5/10.0 - Brand (8.5), History & Innovation (8.0), Rarity (7.5), Material (8.0), Movement (9.0), Versatility (8.5), Complications (8.0), Functions (9.0), Dials & Design (8.5), Cohesiveness (8.0) ## Summary The Sinn 903 St "Navitimer" is a classic pilot's watch that combines functionality with a sophisticated design. It features a chronograph function, making it ideal for aviation enthusiasts and professionals who require precise timing. The watch is powered by an automatic movement, ensuring reliability and convenience with a power reserve of approximately 60 hours. Its robust construction and legible dial make it suitable for both casual and formal settings, appealing to a wide range of wearers. ### Metric Breakdown with Weightings - **Brand (10% Weight): 8.5/10** Sinn is well-respected for its engineering and durability, particularly in pilot watches, though it may not have the same level of recognition as some luxury brands. - **History & Innovation (10% Weight): 8.0/10** Sinn has a rich history in producing functional timepieces, particularly for aviation and diving, showcasing innovative features like temperature resistance and anti-magnetic properties. - **Rarity (10% Weight): 7.5/10** While Sinn watches are not extremely rare, certain models like the 903 St have limited production runs, enhancing their desirability among collectors. - **Material (10% Weight): 8.0/10** The watch is crafted from stainless steel, known for its durability and resistance to corrosion, contributing to its overall quality. - **Movement (10% Weight): 9.0/10** The 903 St is powered by the Valjoux 7750 automatic movement, renowned for its reliability and precision, making it a solid choice for a chronograph. - **Versatility (10% Weight): 8.5/10** The design allows for versatility, suitable for both aviation-related activities and everyday wear, making it a practical addition to any collection. - **Complications (10% Weight): 8.0/10** The chronograph function adds complexity and utility, appealing to those who appreciate multifunctional watches. - **Functions (10% Weight): 9.0/10** The watch features a tachymetric scale, water resistance up to 100 meters, and luminous hands for visibility in low light, enhancing its functionality. - **Dials & Design (10% Weight): 8.5/10** The dial is well-designed with clear markings and a classic aesthetic, making it both functional and visually appealing. - **Cohesiveness (10% Weight): 8.0/10** The Sinn 903 St maintains a cohesive design language typical of pilot watches, balancing functionality with style. ## Conclusion The Sinn 903 St "Navitimer" is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and stylish pilot's watch. Its combination of robust features, quality materials, and a respected brand heritage makes it a worthy addition to any watch collection. --- *A.I. WatchMetrics Review v. v6.20*