Breitling Navitimer Chrono-Matic
Concept & History
The Ref. 1806 represents a technological milestone of the late 1970s. The result of ambitious development work in the field of automatic chronographs, this instrument, known to connoisseurs as the „fried egg“, established new standards for professional aviation. This example from 1977 documents the high point of the mechanical era immediately before the quartz crisis. The solid construction illustrates the manufactory's purely functional approach to complex navigation instruments, whose primary purpose was the precise calculation of flight data.
Caliber & Technology
At the center of the construction is the Breitling caliber 12 with integrated micro-rotor. The main technical feature is the crown positioned on the left-hand side, which visually emphasizes the automatic winding mechanism. An absolutely exceptional factor is the fully documented service carried out by the manufactory in August 2020. This essential overhaul ensures optimum amplitude and power reserve. The complex column wheel mechanism operates absolutely flawlessly, which guarantees the long-term operational reliability and value retention of this historic instrument without the need for additional investment.
Case & Material
The solidly proportioned housing made of Stainless steel measures 48 mm and offers an uncompromising presence. The bidirectional rotating slide rule bezel has precisely defined chamfers and can be operated with precision. Despite its imposing dimensions, the short lugs ensure an ergonomic fit on the wrist. The authentic, fine wear marks bear witness to the history of the watch without detracting from the excellent substance of the professional case. The case back closes the instrument securely.
Aesthetics & Readability
The matt black dial displays a high density of information with maximum contrast. The patinated luminous elements harmonize functionally with the orange accents of the central hands. The complex rehaut with its logarithmic scales is in immaculate condition and ensures that flight-specific calculations can be recorded quickly. The domed glass reliably protects the displays and underlines the instrumental character of this striking pilot's chronograph, which has been designed for excellent readability in all lighting conditions.
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This item is taxed in accordance with § 25 A UStG - VAT cannot be shown.
For more information, see Technical Details.
