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Introduced in 1952, the Breitling Navitimer became a favourite among pilots for its slide rule, typically used with the watch's chronograph to calculate fuel consumption, distance travelled, and climb or descent rates. Its origins trace back to 1940 when Breitling began producing aviation instruments through their Huit Aviation Department. This led to the creation of the Chronomat, a timepiece designed for making vital calculations in flight. Building on the Chronomat’s innovative design, the first Navitimer model was made for members of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA). Over the years, the Navitimer has evolved, incorporating new technologies while staying true to its pilot-friendly design.
Design Meets Functionality
The Navitimer’s design is distinguished by its side bezel, a feature that has defined the model ever since its inception. By 1952, The Navitimer adopted a three-register layout for tracking elapsed hours, minutes, and seconds. The 1960s brought further changes with the introduction of serrated bezels and the addition of automatic movements. Modern Iterations such as those from 2022, offer a more streamlined slide-rule bezel and alternating brushed and polished finishes, along with sapphire crystals and exhibition casebacks. The 2022 Navitimers also refine the aesthetic with new finishes, a range of colour options, and featuring the AOPA logo at 12 o'clock, connecting them to their historic predecessors.
Precision and Practicality
The Breitling Navitimer is renowned for its practical features designed for aviation and precise timing. The 1941 Chronomat introduced innovative functionality for calculations like fuel consumption and distance. Modern Navitimer models retain this tradition with updated features for various technical uses. Latest models in this collection include the COSC-certified calibre B01 movement, known for its column-wheel chronograph function and 70-hour power reserve. For collectors and enthusiasts, special editions like the Ref. 806 1959 Re-Edition offer vintage charm with modern performance, preserving historical design elements while incorporating contemporary technology.