A timepiece for the elegant jet set
In the 1950s, Breitling had firmly cemented their status as the “supplier to the world of aviation.” Because of cult hits like the Breitling Navitimer and onboard chronographs for aircrafts, aviation experts around the world trusted and depended on Breitling. In contrast to the highly technical Navitimer pilot watch, Breitling launched the more polished Transocean model in 1958.
While the Navitimer was produced for pilots, the Transocean was deemed for dapper gents who traveled as passengers on the new jetliners. Matching the Transocean’s elegant design was its technical capabilities. Not only was the timepiece shock-resistant, antimagnetic, and waterproof, it also boasted a COSC-certified automatic mechanical movement. Thus, the Transocean enjoyed great success as one of Breitling’s most popular watch models of the era.
The Revival of the Breitling Transocean Chronograph
In 2010, Breitling revived the Transocean collection. The Swiss watchmaker brought back the classic from the 1950s and 1960s, retaining many of its distinguishing characteristics while adding contemporary appeal. The 43mm sized case features an elegant round construction, a slim bezel, and sleek lugs for a refined design.
This particular Breitling Transocean Chronograph – ref. UB015212/G777 – is a two-toned model with a stainless steel case and rose gold bezel. The three registers on the neutral dial are placed in the traditional 3/6/9 o’clock configuration for easy reading. And to complement the bezel, the hands on the dial are also in rose gold.
For added practicality, the timepiece indicates the date via a window subtly tucked between the 4 and 5 o’clock position. Furthermore, luminescent materials accent the baton hour markers for time-telling capability in the dark.
The Transocean Chronograph ref. UB015212/G777 watch’s sophisticated look is topped off with a brown crocodile leather strap accentuated with white stitching and outfitted with a stainless steel deployant buckle. The watch is also water resistant to 330 feet (100 meters).
The Breitling B01 Manufacture Movement
Most noteworthy of the Breitling Transocean Chronograph is its movement. Designed and built entirely in-house, the Breitling B01 manufacture movement powers the Transocean timepiece. As a result, the B01 automatic mechanical movement beats at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (vph) and includes a power reserve of 72 hours. Built with 47 jewels, the intricate workings of the COSC-certified caliber can be viewed through the sapphire caseback.
Breitling developed the B01 movement over five years within its facility at La-Chaux-de-Fonds in Switzerland and finally launched it in 2009. Taking the step to produce in-house calibers satisfies the demand within the watch-enthusiast market for more manufacture-made movements.
Breitling does offer plenty of different types of calibers, from quartz, to ETA modified chronographs, to now in-house movements. All Breitling movements are COSC-certified – even their quartz ones – therefore, emphasizing the reliability and precision of their watches.
Among the Breitling line-up of aviation infused timepieces, the Transocean Chronograph stands out for its tasteful style and a subtle touch of vintage charm. A celebration of the past, yet firmly rooted in the present, the Transocean would be a fine addition to any gentleman’s watch collection.
