Breitling Top Time

Breitling Top Time Models

The Breitling Top Time collection comes in a variety of models, each bringing its own uniqueness in character and appeal. There's a Top Time model that appeals to anyone's tastes - from the classic designs reminiscent of the original aesthetic from the 1960s to the more modern representation of Breitling's spirit.

Top Time Classic Cars

The Top Time Classic Cars collection represents an exciting meeting of two universes: horological mastery and automotive passion. This series salutes the three American sports car icons of the 1960s: the Chevrolet Corvette, Ford Mustang, and Shelby Cobra. Every model in this collection features design cues that are emblematic of the spirit of these legendary automobiles.

The design of the dials is based around the dashboards and styling cues of the relevant automotive dials. The Corvette edition presents with a breathtaking red dial, while the Mustang has the same green dial as the legendary Highland Green color. The Shelby Cobra model presents with a blue dial that reflects the iconic Cobra blue.

Top Time Deus

The Breitling Top Time Deus is a limited edition watch conceived by Breitling in collaboration with the Australian motorcycle lifestyle brand Deus Ex Machina. It's the ethos of both brands, living absolutely free through a timepiece that perfectly carries off style and substance.

Top Time Deus carries the same vintage spirit in its very special, racing-themed chronograph dial with a chrono hand in the shape of a lightning bolt, reminiscent of the motorbike racing world. Modern materials and movements are coming into line with its vintage-inspired aesthetic, making it the perfect definition of nostalgia in contemporary watchmaking.

Top Time B01

The Breitling Top Time B01 is the most sophisticated in the series and comes equipped with the in-house B01 caliber movement. This automatic chronograph movement guarantees top precision and reliability, underlining Breitling's technical excellence in watchmaking.

Generally, Top Time B01 watches feature very classic bi-compax dials with two subdials; hence, the clean and balanced look that most models manifest. Most of the time, these watches would come in a larger case size, like 41mm to 43mm, which will best fit those who would want a more massive presence on their wrist.

Top Time B21

The Top Time B21 models bring a fresh, contemporary twist to the classic Top Time design. These watches often feature unique color combinations and dial layouts that set them apart from their siblings in the collection.

While maintaining all of the sporty chronograph functionality that defines the Top Time line, B21 models often have modern additions like ceramic bezels or innovative display features. That hybrid of heritage and innovation really makes the Top Time B21 an appealing proposition to anybody after a slightly more avant-garde interpretation of that classic Top Time look.

Top Time Triumph

The Breitling Top Time Triumph is a special edition that celebrates the partnership between Breitling and the iconic British motorcycle manufacturer Triumph. This collaboration results in a watch that embodies the spirit of both brands – precision, performance, and timeless style.

The Top Time Triumph features design elements inspired by classic Triumph motorcycles, such as a dial pattern reminiscent of engine surface textures or color schemes that echo famous Triumph models. This watch not only tells time but also tells a story of two legendary brands coming together to create something truly unique.

Top Time Classic

The Top Time Classic models are directly inspired by the original Top Time watches from the 1960s, showcasing clean and timeless chronograph designs. These timepieces beautifully capture the collection's heritage while integrating modern watchmaking technologies.

Breitling Top Time B06

A standout within this category is the Breitling Top Time B06, often distinguished by its unique "zorro" dial layout. This design features contrasting colors or textures that form a mask-like pattern on the dial, paying homage to the playful aesthetics of the 1960s while offering a contemporary appeal.

Top Time Limited Editions

Breitling frequently releases Top Time Limited Editions, each offering unique design elements and often featuring special collaborations. These watches are highly coveted by collectors for their exclusivity and distinctive features.

Limited Edition Top Time models may commemorate significant events, celebrate partnerships with other brands or personalities, or showcase experimental design concepts. These watches often incorporate rare materials, special color schemes, or unique complications, setting them apart from regular production models.

Breitling Top Time Watch Specifications

The Breitling Top Time collection offers various specifications to cater to different preferences and needs. While details may vary between models, the following provides a general overview of the Top Time's features and capabilities.

Materials

Breitling Top Time watches display a wide range of materials across different models, blending tradition with innovation. The classic stainless steel case remains a popular choice for its durability and timeless aesthetic. Some limited editions feature more exotic materials like bronze or rose gold, adding a touch of luxury.

For a sportier look, certain Top Time models incorporate DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) coated stainless steel, enhancing scratch resistance and offering a sleek, modern appearance. The bezels may include ceramic inserts in various colors, combining style with practicality. Crystal materials typically include sapphire with anti-reflective coating, ensuring excellent readability and scratch resistance.

Movement

The movement in Breitling Top Time watches is at the heart of their exceptional quality, demonstrating the brand's dedication to horological excellence. Most Top Time models feature automatic mechanical movements, with high-end versions boasting Breitling's in-house calibers.

Flagship models, such as the Top Time B01, are equipped with the Breitling Manufacture Caliber 01. This self-winding chronograph movement offers a power reserve of approximately 70 hours and is COSC-certified for exceptional accuracy. Other models may use the Breitling Caliber 23, based on the ETA 7753, which delivers reliable performance at a more accessible price point.

Dial

Top Time dials serve as a canvas for Breitling's creative expression, offering a broad array of colors and designs. The collection includes classic panda and reverse panda dials, as well as bold, vibrant hues that catch the eye. Common colors include black, white, blue, and green, with special editions introducing unique shades.

Most Top Time models feature a bi-compax layout with two subdials, typically positioned at 3 and 9 o'clock, housing the chronograph minutes and running seconds. The main dial often incorporates a tachymeter scale along the periphery, highlighting the watch's sporty character. Super-LumiNova® coated hands and indices ensure excellent legibility in low-light conditions.

Watch Bands

The Breitling Top Time collection offers a variety of strap options to suit different tastes and occasions:

• Mesh Bracelet: Some Top Time models are available with a stainless steel Milanese mesh bracelet, providing a vintage-inspired look that complements the watch's retro aesthetics. The mesh design offers comfort and breathability, making it suitable for all-day wear. Its adjustable clasp ensures a precise fit, keeping the watch securely on the wrist.
• Leather Strap: Leather straps are a popular choice for Top Time watches, available in several variations:
• Calfskin Leather: This classic option offers durability and a refined appearance, developing a beautiful patina over time that adds character to the watch.
• Suede Leather: For a more casual, textured look, some Top Time models feature soft suede straps, providing a comfortable feel and a relaxed aesthetic that pairs well with the watch's sporty design.
• Racing-Inspired Leather Straps: Perforated leather straps, especially on automotive-themed Top Time models, echo the look of vintage racing gloves, reinforcing the collection's connection to motorsports.
• NATO Strap: For a more casual and versatile option, some Top Time watches come with NATO straps. These durable nylon straps are easily interchangeable, allowing wearers to quickly change the look of their watch. NATO straps are available in various colors and patterns, often complementing the dial design of specific Top Time models.

Sizes

Breitling offers the Top Time in various sizes to cater to different wrist sizes and style preferences:

• Diameter: Top Time watches typically range from 41mm to 43mm in diameter, providing a bold presence on the wrist while remaining wearable for most people. Some limited edition or women's models may be available in smaller sizes, around 38mm to 40mm.
• Thickness: The case thickness of Top Time watches generally falls between 13mm to 15mm, allowing for a substantial feel without being overly bulky, balancing presence and comfort.
• Lug to Lug: The lug-to-lug measurement, which significantly affects how the watch wears on the wrist, typically ranges from 49mm to 52mm for most Top Time models. This ensures the watch sits comfortably on various wrist sizes.
• Lug Width: Most Top Time models feature a lug width of 20mm or 22mm, an industry-standard size that allows for easy strap changes and compatibility with a wide range of aftermarket options.

Water Resistance

Breitling Top Time watches are designed to withstand daily wear and occasional exposure to water. Most models in the collection offer a water resistance rating of 30 meters (3 bar / 100 feet). This level of water resistance protects the watch from splashes and rain but is not suitable for swimming or diving.

It's important to note that while the Top Time can handle brief immersion, it's not designed as a dive watch. For water sports or frequent exposure to water, Breitling offers other collections like the Superocean or Navitimer, with higher water resistance ratings.

Tachymeter

A key feature of many Top Time models is the tachymeter scale, typically located on the outer edge of the dial or on the bezel, allowing the wearer to measure speed based on travel time or distance based on speed. The tachymeter adds both functionality and a sporty aesthetic to the watch.

To use the tachymeter, start the chronograph at a known distance marker, stop it after traveling one unit of measurement (e.g., 1 kilometer or 1 mile), and the number on the tachymeter scale where the chronograph hand points indicates the speed in units per hour.

Power Reserve

The power reserve of Breitling Top Time watches varies depending on the specific movement used. Models featuring the in-house Breitling Caliber 01 movement boast an impressive power reserve of approximately 70 hours, allowing the watch to continue running accurately even if not worn for a few days.

Other models in the Top Time collection, such as those using the Breitling Caliber 23 (based on the ETA 7753), typically offer a power reserve of around 48 hours. This is still ample for daily wear, ensuring the watch keeps time reliably between winding sessions.

Chronograph

The chronograph function is a defining feature of the Breitling Top Time collection. Most models feature a two-register chronograph layout, with subdials typically positioned at 3 and 9 o'clock. The chronograph measures elapsed time up to 30 minutes in most cases.

Operation of the chronograph is intuitive, with start/stop controlled by the pusher at 2 o'clock and reset by the pusher at 4 o'clock. The central chronograph seconds hand allows for precise timing to 1/4 or 1/8 of a second, depending on the specific movement.

Breitling Top Time Price

The Breitling Top Time collection offers a range of prices, making it accessible to various segments of watch enthusiasts. For new, current models, prices typically start around $4,000 to $5,000 for standard stainless steel versions with leather straps. Limited editions or models featuring precious metals can command higher prices, often ranging from $6,000 to $9,000 or more.

Pre-owned Breitling Top Time watches present an opportunity for collectors to acquire these timepieces at more attractive price points. Depending on the model, condition, and rarity, pre-owned Top Time watches can be found starting from about $3,000 for older or less sought-after versions. Rare vintage models or limited editions in excellent condition might fetch prices comparable to or even exceeding those of new models, particularly if they come with original packaging and documentation.

Expert Opinion

"Each Breitling Top Time model represents the brand's commitment to precision timekeeping and bold design, aligning seamlessly with our mission to offer exceptional timepieces to our discerning clientele. The Top Time's versatility - from its classic iterations to its contemporary limited editions – appeals to a wide range of collectors and enthusiasts. Our customers appreciate the Top Time not just as a reliable chronograph, but as a piece of horological art that embodies both heritage and innovation in watchmaking."

- Paul Altieri, Founder & CEO of Bob's Watches

Why Choose Us

When it comes to purchasing a Breitling Top Time, Bob's Watches is the go-to place. Our unmatched expertise in high-end watches, especially Breitling models, ensures that you acquire not just a watch, but a carefully authenticated piece of horological quality. We take pride in our transparency, providing in-depth details on each Top Time watch's condition, background, and special features. Our thorough authentication process guarantees that every Breitling Top Time in our stock is 100% authentic, giving you confidence in your purchase. Additionally, our competitive

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