Swiss watchmaker Breitling is in the middle of a reinvention stage at the moment, one that is producing a slew of fascinating and impressive models. A new CEO, in the shape of Georges Kern, took over the helm in 2017, and he has instigated a dramatic shakeup of the 136-year-old brand. Breitling watches are best known for their ultra-masculine and extremely technical designs; however, Breitling has set about simplifying its output to appeal to a wider, less niche audience. In this guide, we will explore the best Breitling watch selections and provide in-depth descriptions and histories behind some of Breitling’s best watch models.

The History of Breitling

Breitling history dates back to 1884 when Leon Breitling founded the company in Saint-Imier, Switzerland. Initially focusing on chronographs, which were in high demand for industrial and scientific applications, Breitling quickly gained a reputation for precision and quality, making them the best Breitling watch to invest in at the time.

As the 20th century progressed, Breitling became closely tied to the world of aviation. In the 1930s, they introduced the Breitling Navitimer, a watch line designed specifically for pilots, featuring a circular slide rule that allowed for various calculations during flight. This iconic timepiece became a symbol of the brand’s commitment to aviation and adventurous spirit and is often considered the best Breitling watch.

Throughout the decades, Breitling continued to innovate, introducing new features and designs that catered to the needs of professionals in various fields. From the Chronomat, popular among Formula 1 teams in the 1940s, to the Breitling Emergency, the first wristwatch with a built-in emergency transmitter, Breitling has consistently pushed the boundaries of what a watch can do, solidifying their reputation for creating some of the best-looking Breitling watch models and establishing themselves as one of the top luxury watch brands.

The portfolio now spans 10 collections, encompassing watches intended for land, air, and sea. Additionally, beyond jumping feet-first into the state-of-the-art arena of wearable tech, Breitling has also embraced its own heritage with a series of vintage-inspired pieces. It has all signaled a successful turnaround in the company’s fortunes, producing the sort of robustly stylish watches that can be worn every day and in a broad range of circumstances. Below we pick out three of Breitling’s most popular models.

Breitling: Innovative and Forward Thinking

Today, Breitling remains a prominent player in the luxury watch market, known for their precision, durability, and stylish designs that pay homage to their rich history in aviation and beyond. The brand continues to innovate, incorporating modern technologies and materials while staying true to its heritage. With a wide range of collections, from the classic Navitimer and Chronomat to the sporty Superocean and the elegant Premier, Breitling offers timepieces that cater to diverse tastes and lifestyles.

Breitling’s commitment to quality and performance is evident in every watch they produce, with each timepiece undergoing rigorous testing to ensure it meets the highest standards of Swiss craftsmanship. This leads many to ask, is Breitling a good watch? The answer is a resounding yes. Breitling’s watches are not just accessories; they are reliable tools that have accompanied adventurers, professionals, and enthusiasts on countless journeys, both in the air and on the ground.

Breitling’s legacy extends beyond its products, as the brand actively engages with its community of fans and enthusiasts through events, partnerships, and collaborations. From supporting aviation-related causes to sponsoring sports teams and events, Breitling remains an active participant in the worlds that inspire its creations.

Breitling has stood the test of time, much like the watches they create, consistently capturing the hearts of enthusiasts worldwide. Any comprehensive Breitling watch review will highlight the brand’s strong sense of identity, unwavering commitment to excellence, and spirit of adventure. These qualities, often praised by experts and consumers alike, position the company to remain a leader in the luxury watch industry for generations to come. Whether you’re reading a professional critique or a user-generated Breitling watch review, you’ll find consistent praise for their ability to create what is widely regarded as some of the best timepieces for collectors and enthusiasts. From the cockpit to the boardroom, Breitling watches combine precision, durability, and sophisticated design in each model, solidifying their reputation as a top-tier watchmaker in countless Breitling watch reviews.

The Best Breitling Watches

The portfolio now spans 10 collections, encompassing watches intended for land, air, and sea. Additionally, beyond jumping feet first into the state-of-the-art arena of wearable tech, Breitling has also embraced its own heritage with a series of vintage-inspired pieces. It has all signaled a successful turnaround in the company’s fortunes, producing the sort of robustly stylish watches that can be worn every day and in a broad range of circumstances.

While Breitling is known for its high-end luxury timepieces, the brand also offers a range of more affordable Swiss watches that still embody the company’s commitment to quality and precision. These watches provide an excellent entry point for those looking to own a piece of Breitling’s rich horological heritage without breaking the bank.

Breitling Superocean

The Breitling Superocean, first introduced in 1957, is a collection of robust and stylish dive watches designed for both professional and recreational use. With water resistance ratings of up to 1,000 meters (3,300 feet) and featuring unidirectional rotating bezels, luminescent hands and indices, and durable construction, the Superocean watches are reliable companions for underwater adventures and everyday wear.

Breitling Superocean Heritage

On the 50th anniversary of the original in 2007, Breitling emerged with the Superocean Heritage, a collection with its aesthetics taken directly from the inaugural series, combined with the best of modern technology. Issued in several guises, customers could take their pick from simple three-handers or chronographs in a host of different colors. The Superocean became one the best-selling Breitling watches and was updated again in 2017 with the Superocean Heritage II, which added 46mm models to go along with the 42mm and 44mm examples.

The visual differences between the two generations are minimal, with the newer range making use of a super hard, unscratchable ceramic for the bezel insert in place of the former aluminum, along with a subtle redesign of the handset. The bigger changes are on the inside, with the former models powered by ETA-based movements while the latter use a mix of homegrown calibers (the Breitling B01 in the most recent chronograph editions) as well as the B20, derived from Tudor’s excellent MT5612 for the time and date pieces.

Metal options also vary; the majority of the Superocean models are in stainless steel, with a handful of 18k red gold pieces available as well. Overall, both Superocean Heritage iterations are superbly handsome, elegant dive watches, and can often be found at some very attractive price points. They are also some of the best Breitling watch models to hold value.

Superocean vs Superocean Heritage

When comparing the Breitling Superocean vs Superocean Heritage, it’s important to note the differences in metal options. The majority of the standard Superocean models are crafted in stainless steel, with a select few available in 18k red gold. In the Breitling Superocean vs Superocean Heritage debate, both collections are praised for their handsome and elegant dive watch designs. However, the Heritage line often leans towards a more vintage-inspired aesthetic. Regardless of which side you favor in the Breitling Superocean vs Superocean Heritage comparison, both iterations can frequently be found at attractive price points. Notably, these models are considered some of the best Breitling watches for holding their value over time, making them popular choices among collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Breitling Superocean Automatic 44

The Breitling Superocean Automatic 44 is a more recent addition to the brand’s lineup of dive watches, offering a modern take on the classic Superocean design. Released in 2019, the Superocean Automatic 44 is a testament to Breitling’s commitment to creating robust, reliable, and stylish timepieces for those with an active lifestyle, both on land and in the water.

With a 44mm case size, the Superocean Automatic 44 strikes a balance between wrist presence and comfort, making it suitable for a wide range of wearers. The watch features a unidirectional rotating bezel with a ceramic insert, ensuring durability and resistance to scratches and fading. The dial is available in a variety of colors, including black, blue, and silver, with applied indices and hands treated with Super-LumiNova for optimal legibility in low-light conditions.

One of the standout features of the Superocean Automatic 44 is its impressive water resistance, rated at 1,000 meters (3,300 feet). This is achieved using a thick, screw-down crown and a solid case back, making the watch suitable for professional diving and other water-based activities.

Powering the Superocean Automatic 44 is the Breitling Caliber 17, a self-winding mechanical movement based on the reliable ETA 2824-2. This movement offers a power reserve of approximately 38 hours and is known for its accuracy and durability.

The Superocean Automatic 44 is available in a variety of strap options, including a stainless-steel bracelet, rubber strap, or leather strap, allowing customers to choose the perfect combination to suit their style and needs.

Overall, the Breitling Superocean Automatic 44 is a robust and stylish dive watch that combines modern design elements with the brand’s rich heritage in creating timepieces for adventurers and professionals. With its impressive water resistance, reliable movement, and versatile strap options, the Superocean Automatic 44 is a worthy addition to any watch enthusiast’s collection.

Breitling Avenger

The Breitling Avenger is a line of bold and rugged timepieces designed for adventurers and aviation enthusiasts. With their sturdy cases, highly legible dials, and features like chronograph functions, GMT complications, and water resistance of up to 300 meters (1,000 feet), Avenger watches are reliable tools for navigating the challenges of land, sea, and air, making them some of the best Breitling watches to collect.

Breitling Avenger II Seawolf

Not expected to ever make a list of small and understated Breitling watches, the Avenger II Seawolf is an utter leviathan of a timepiece. Sporting a steel case measuring 45mm in diameter and with a height of 18.4mm, it is not going to be slipping under many shirt sleeves. Even so, its cleverly angled lugs mean that it hugs the wrist securely despite its bulk. However, its incredible water resistance of 3,000m tells you that it was clearly designed for another type of role completely.

The Breitling Avenger II is stocked full of professional dive watch features: the grenade-style crown is thick and easy to turn even while wearing gloves, there is a Helium escape valve in the side of the case at the nine o’clock, and the bezel – fixed in place by a total of eight visible screws – is unidirectional and has hash marks the whole way round, rather than for just the first 15 minutes like many other divers. That bezel also features Breitling’s trademark rider tabs at the four cardinal points, first introduced on the Chronomat, making manipulating the bezel easier underwater.

On the dial, huge, applied hour markers, either Arabic numerals or batons, keep it all extremely readable, with the hour and minute hands swamped with lume and a splash of bright red on the tip of the seconds hand for improved legibility. Power comes from the Breitling B17 – a reworking of the ETA 2824, quite possibly the most widely used third-party movement of them all. The B17 is used in a number of Breitling watches and offers a proven track record of reliability and precision. A wholly dependable workhorse, it beats at 28,800vph and offers a 38-hour reserve.

The Avenger II Seawolf is available in three colors: yellow, grey, and black – or, to give them their proper titles: Cobra, Tungsten, and Volcano. This is the kind of watch we are more familiar with from Breitling: big, bold, and built like a tank. An enormous and massively capable watch, there is little else out there offering so much capability for the money.

Breitling Avenger GMT

The Breitling Avenger GMT is a robust and functional timepiece that combines the brand’s aviation heritage with modern design elements. With a sturdy 43mm or 45mm stainless steel case, the Avenger GMT is water-resistant to 300 meters and features a unidirectional rotating bezel with a 24-hour scale, allowing easy tracking of a second-time zone.

The dial, available in various colors like black, blue, and gray, is designed for maximum legibility with large, luminescent hands and indices. A date window is typically positioned at 3 o’clock.

Powered by a reliable Breitling Caliber self-winding mechanical movement with a power reserve of 42 to 70 hours, the Avenger GMT ensures accurate timekeeping. The watch is available on a stainless-steel Professional bracelet, leather strap, or durable rubber strap, allowing customization to suit personal style and needs.

With its rugged construction, precision timekeeping, and dual-time functionality, the Breitling Avenger GMT is a versatile timepiece that is equally at home in the cockpit, on the trail, or in the boardroom. It’s an ideal choice for travelers, adventurers, and those who seek a reliable and stylish watch that can keep up with their active lifestyle.

Breitling Navitimer

Probably the most recognizable of all Breitling watches - both past and present – is the Navitimer: the iconic pilot's watch complete with a slide rule bezel designed to be an analog flight computer for mid-flight calculations.

Breitling Navitimer 8 B01 Chronograph 43

The Breitling Navitimer is something of a legend in both watch and aviation circles, so when Georges Kern’s first new release upon taking over as CEO carried the ‘Navitimer 8’ title but omitted the famous surround, it caused some confusion. In fact, it caused so much confusion that it was eventually renamed, as the Aviator 8. Branding complexities aside, the Navitimer/Aviator 8 is the perfect illustration of where Breitling is headed.

Breitling pilot watches date back to the brand’s association with the world of flying more than 80 years ago. Their contribution to pioneering the chronograph wristwatch dates back even further. Those two areas of expertise are combined here, with the Aviator 8 featuring a beautifully retro aesthetic complete with the traditional tri-compax arrangement of sub-dials for the chronograph. At 43mm, it is another large piece - as a pilot’s model should be – and legibility is again prized with clean, clear dials and easily discernible indexes.

Inside, Breitling’s own B01 runs the show, an automatic ratchet-wheel chronograph movement with a vertical clutch and more than 70 hours of power reserve. It drives the 30-minute and 12-hour counters, as well as the running seconds dial and the stopwatch itself. Finishing it off is a small date window that pops up between the four and five o’clock markers.

As before, it is issued in a range of colors, with the steel pieces given a choice of black, grey, or blue dials, while the 18k red gold example comes with a bronze-colored face. All versions are impressively versatile, with a definite air of formality behind them. With its blend of vintage nostalgia, coupled with the prestige of an in-house engine, the Aviator 8 B01 Chronograph is a superb offering and an exciting step forward from Breitling.

Breitling Navitimer B03 Chronograph

The Navitimer B03 Chronograph is an iconic timepiece that embodies the fusion of elegance and technical prowess. Renowned for its B03 chronograph movement, this watch offers unparalleled precision, a hallmark of the brand’s dedication to high-quality craftsmanship. Its classic design features a distinctive slide rule bezel, a nod to its aviation heritage. The watch’s dial, with its intricate layout and clear readability, is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. This model, with its blend of historic significance and modern innovation, is a coveted piece among watch aficionados.

Breitling Premier

The Breitling Premier is a line of elegant and sophisticated timepieces that pay homage to the brand’s heritage of crafting refined chronographs in the 1940s. Combining classic design elements with modern watchmaking technology, the Premier watches feature clean dials, precise movements, and a range of complications, including chronographs, day-date displays, and moon phases, making them ideal for those who appreciate timeless style and functionality.

Breitling Premier B01 Chronograph with Panda Dial

The Premier B01 Chronograph with Panda Dial is a stunning example of a classic watch design, featuring a striking contrast between its black subdials and white main dial. This design, reminiscent of a panda’s face, gives the watch a distinct and instantly recognizable look. Its integrated B01 chronograph movement ensures high precision and reliability, making it a favorite among watch enthusiasts. The watch’s elegant case and sophisticated finish reflect a commitment to quality and style. This timepiece perfectly marries functionality with a timeless aesthetic, appealing to those who value both performance and elegance in their wristwear.

Breitling Chronomat

The Breitling Chronomat is an iconic collection that has been a cornerstone of the brand since its introduction in the 1940s. Originally designed as a tool watch for scientists and engineers, the modern Chronomat features a robust construction, a distinctive bezel with rider tabs, and a versatile design that makes it suitable for both professional and casual wear, while also offering a range of complications, including chronographs, GMTs, and calendar functions.

In any comprehensive Breitling Chronomat review, the collection’s evolution and versatility are often highlighted as key selling points. The modern Chronomat has undergone several design iterations, each refining its aesthetic while maintaining its core identity. The collection offers a wide range of materials, from stainless steel to precious metals, and dial colors to suit various tastes. Additionally, the Chronomat’s water resistance and robust build quality make it a practical choice for active lifestyles, further cementing its reputation as a versatile luxury sports watch.

Breitling Chronomat B01 42

The Breitling Chronomat B01 42 is a quintessential example of the brand’s commitment to creating high-performance timepieces. This model is particularly noted for its in-house B01 movement, renowned for its precision and reliability. Featuring a classic yet robust design, the watch includes a distinctive rotating bezel and a stainless-steel case that underscores its durability. Its dial, available in a variety of colors, is both functional and visually appealing, with luminous hands and markers for easy readability. The integrated chronograph function adds a layer of complexity and utility, making it a favorite among enthusiasts of both aviation and horology. The watch’s versatility and timeless design make it suitable for almost any occasion, from formal events to casual outings. With the Chronomat B01 42, Breitling continues its legacy of crafting watches that combine style, functionality, and unmatched craftsmanship.

Breitling Chronomat GMT

The Breitling Chronomat GMT is a stunning addition to the brand’s renowned Chronomat collection, seamlessly blending the iconic design elements of the original Chronomat with the functionality of a dual-time watch. This timepiece is perfect for travelers, aviation enthusiasts, and those who appreciate a watch that combines style and practicality.

The Chronomat GMT features a robust stainless-steel case, typically ranging from 40mm to 44mm in diameter, which provides a substantial presence on the wrist while remaining comfortable to wear. The case is finished with a combination of brushed and polished surfaces, showcasing Breitling’s attention to detail and craftsmanship.

One of the most distinctive features of the Chronomat GMT is its bezel. The uni-directional rotating bezel is adorned with the signature rider tabs, which not only protect the crystal but also provide excellent grip when adjusting the bezel. The 24-hour scale on the bezel, paired with the additional GMT hand on the dial, allows the wearer to easily track a second-time zone.

The dial of the Chronomat GMT is available in a range of colors, from classic black and white to more eye-catching hues like blue and green. The dial layout remains true to the Chronomat design, with three subdials displaying the chronograph functions and a date window typically positioned at 3 o’clock. The GMT hand usually finished in a contrasting color like red or orange, adds a pop of color and enhances the watch’s legibility.

Powering the Chronomat GMT is a Breitling Caliber, a self-winding mechanical movement that offers a power reserve of approximately 42 to 70 hours, depending on the specific model. These movements are known for their accuracy and reliability, ensuring that the watch keeps precise time both at home and while traveling.

The Chronomat GMT is available in a variety of bracelet and strap options, including the iconic Pilot bracelet, leather straps, and rubber straps. This allows wearers to customize their watches to suit their personal style and preferences.

With its combination of rugged construction, precision timekeeping, and dual-time functionality, the Breitling Chronomat GMT is a versatile and stylish choice for those who demand the best in both form and function. Whether you’re traveling the world or simply appreciate the timeless design and quality of a Breitling timepiece, the Chronomat GMT is sure to impress.

Breitling Bentley

The Breitling Bentley is a series of luxurious and high-performance timepieces born from the partnership between the Swiss watchmaker and the iconic British automotive brand. Inspired by the world of motorsports and the craftsmanship of Bentley cars, these watches feature unique design elements like knurled bezels, diamond-patterned dials, and powerful movements with chronograph and GMT functions, making them the perfect choice for those who appreciate the fusion of automotive excellence and horological sophistication.

The collection has garnered significant attention in the luxury watch world, with many a Breitling Bentley review praising its distinctive features. These timepieces are renowned for their robust construction, oversized cases, and intricate dial designs that echo the dashboard aesthetics of Bentley automobiles. Enthusiasts conducting a Breitling Bentley review often emphasize the collection’s use of high-grade materials, including stainless steel, 18k gold, and even breitlight - Breitling's proprietary ultra-light polymer. The watches typically incorporate complex movements, such as COSC-certified chronographs and world-time complications, catering to the needs of global travelers and motorsport enthusiasts alike. While the partnership between Breitling and Bentley has evolved over time, these watches continue to represent a unique intersection of automotive design and Swiss watchmaking precision..

Breitling Bentley Supersports B55

The Breitling Bentley Supersports B55 stands out as a symbol of the partnership between two iconic brands, renowned for their commitment to luxury and performance. This timepiece, with its advanced B55 movement, is a marvel of precision and technical prowess, showcasing the best of modern watchmaking. Its bold and sporty design draws inspiration from Bentley’s automotive aesthetics, blending high-end style with a racing spirit. The watch features a digital-analog display, offering a range of functionalities tailored for motorsport enthusiasts. Its titanium case ensures durability while maintaining a lightweight feel, suitable for both daily wear and special occasions. Connectivity with smartphones via Bluetooth enhances its utility, allowing for easy customization and data tracking. For those who appreciate the fusion of sophisticated technology and elegant design, the Breitling Bentley Supersports B55 is the perfect choice.

Best Breitling Watches: Final Thoughts

In conclusion, Breitling has a rich history of crafting exceptional timepieces that cater to diverse tastes and needs. From the iconic Navitimer, which has been a favorite among pilots and aviation enthusiasts for decades, to the modern and stylish Premier collection, Breitling offers a wide range of watches that combine precision, functionality, and timeless design.

Throughout this discussion, we have explored some of the best Breitling watches, including the Superocean, known for its impressive water resistance and robust construction; the Avenger, a bold and rugged timepiece designed for adventurers; the Chronomat, a versatile and iconic collection that has been a cornerstone of the brand since the 1940s; and the Bentley, a series of luxurious and high-performance watches born from the partnership between Breitling and the British automotive brand that has since ended as of 2021.

Each of these collections showcases Breitling’s commitment to quality, innovation, and style, making them highly sought-after by watch enthusiasts around the world. Whether you’re a professional in need of a reliable tool watch, an adventurer seeking a rugged companion, or simply someone who appreciates the art of fine watchmaking, Breitling has a timepiece that will suit your needs and exceed your expectations.