Sample Breitling's Navitimer chronograph watch, a Swiss watch brand icon

SwissWatch brand Breitling Navitimer (an aviation chronograph watch), as a paragon of aviation timing precision and one of the top ten classic timepieces of the 20th century, has established an eternal standard for chronograph watches with its dependable excellence.Since its inception in 1952, it has been widely embraced by professional pilots and aviation enthusiasts. To commemorate the 60th anniversary of this legendary timepiece, the brand launched a globally exclusive limited edition of 500 pieces in Shanghai. The Breitling Navitimer chronograph watch boasts unparalleled high recognition thanks to its precise functional design and a mechanically rich yet elegant appearance. It has been listed among the top ten classic timepieces of the 20th century and, with its reliably exceptional quality, has set an enduring benchmark for chronograph watches. Since its debut in 1952, while staying true to its original aesthetic, the Navitimer has also become the oldest currently produced mechanical chronograph watch in the world.

The watch features a 43mm stainless steel case with a bidirectional rotating bezel (slide rule bezel), and its blue dial color harmonizes with the deep blue crocodile leather strap, giving the watch a cohesive look. It’s said that only those who own airplanes can truly fall in love with Breitling — though somewhat exaggerated, this also reflects its absolute contribution to aviation timing. Breitling’s global ambassador, John Travolta, reportedly owns seven private jets. Like many models from the brand, it is equipped with Breitling’s proprietary slide rule bezel, hailed as an “aviation computer.” In the pre-electronic computer era, this watch’s uniqueness lay in its ability to swiftly and conveniently perform all flight-related calculations, including average speed, flight distance, fuel consumption, and rates of climb or descent, making it highly favored by pilots for flight preparation and monitoring. This is also a key reason why many aviation enthusiasts are so captivated by it. However, for everyday wear, most people appreciate its chronograph function the most — the 30-minute sub-dial at 3 o’clock is also blue and features a textured finish that enhances its three-dimensional appearance.

It is reported that this 60th Anniversary Sky Blue Limited Edition of the Breitling Navitimer chronograph watch can also be paired with the Navitimer aviation bracelet or the unique Air Racer perforated racing strap, offering different styles of “blue sky” on the wrist. As far as I understand, this watch is a limited edition with only 500 pieces available, and its price is around 60,000 RMB. While the price is relatively manageable, the limited quantity makes it quite challenging for those who wish to purchase one.

0