Whether you’re a fan of Breitling watches or not, there’s a certain personality and charm to the classic Breitling Navitimer that’s just hard to ignore. When compiling a list of iconic watch models (and know that we are well aware of the over-use of the word ‘icon’ within the watch industry), once you get past the Daytona, Submariner, Royal Oak, Nautilus, and Speedmaster, you’re probably only a few steps at most from naming the Navitimer.
This instantly recognizable collection of Breitling watches dates back to 1952 and was designed as a pilot’s tool first and foremost. Its bezel features a slide rule, a once practical tool for flight prior to the development of modern navigational equipment. Breitling has kept the model as a pillar of its catalog pretty much the whole way through, and though there are layouts that are more classic than others, there are plenty of choices available for those wanting to add another icon to their growing watch collections.
Below we are taking a closer look at just a few of our favorite Breitling Navitimer models that have come through the doors of Bob’s Watches over the years.
Choosing Breitling Watches from the Navitimer Collection
Choosing a Breitling watch from the Navitimer collection means selecting from an iconic range of timepieces that blend precision, history, and style. Known for its aviation roots, the Navitimer boasts a distinctive circular slide rule, making it a favorite among pilots and watch enthusiasts alike. When choosing a model, consider factors like case size, as the collection offers a variety of options from 41mm to larger 46mm designs, ensuring a comfortable fit for any wrist. Additionally, the movement – whether it’s the in-house B01 caliber or the more classic automatic chronographs – should align with your preferences for accuracy and functionality. With both vintage-inspired and modern iterations available, the Navitimer collection offers something for every taste, making it a timeless investment in craftsmanship and style.
BREITLING NAVITIMER 01 REF AB012721/BD09
To kick off this list, we had to start with one of the classics – a reference that stays as true to the original as possible. In our Breitling Navitimer review, the Navitimer 01 stands out as a modern recreation, featuring a more contemporary case size. While it’s large for a standard watch, it’s perfectly sized for the oversized pilot’s watch category, with a steel case that measures 46mm across. This blend of classic design and modern proportions makes the Navitimer 01 a standout choice.
Like a number of other Breitling watches, the Navitimer 01 is powered by the in-house manufacture caliber B01, a self-winding column wheel chronograph with a power reserve of 70 hours. Though the first Navitimer from 1952 used a black dial with black sub-dials, you’ll see quite a few variants like this one in a white-on-black ‘reverse panda’ dial configuration.
BREITLING NAVITIMER A35340
If 46mm is simply too overbearing for your wrist size – we can’t blame you, many of us are in the same boat – then this reference of Navitimer should be more your speed. This blue dial reference is not only a treat on account of its beautiful sunburst dial and more compact 42mm steel case, but it’s also one of the rare references that was offered by Breitling on an integrated bracelet. Additionally, suppose you’re curious about how to use the Breitling Navitimer bezel. In that case, it’s designed to function as a circular slide rule, allowing you to perform calculations such as converting miles to kilometers or figuring out fuel consumption – making the Navitimer as practical as it is visually appealing.
Due to its high-polished finish, Breitling Navitimer bracelets are an acquired taste that draws a rather polarized ‘love-it-or-hate-it’ response. Many collectors are not always keen on the all-polished look, but given the asymmetrical design of the bracelet links and the matching finish on the case, it just looks right on the Navitimer.
BREITLING NAVITIMER WORLD A2432212
In the realm of the Best Breitling Pilot Watches, the Navitimer takes functionality to the next level by adding one more practical complication for pilots – a GMT function. Already equipped with a chronograph and the iconic slide rule bezel, the Navitimer became even more useful for global travelers with the introduction of the Navitimer World. This specific reference subtly incorporates the GMT complication, marked by a red GMT hand and a 24-hour scale running along the inner perimeter of the dial, enhancing its utility without overwhelming its classic design.
This is simplified complexity at its finest; so many watches have a knack for seeming cluttered or overloaded as complications are stacked on a design. Perhaps it’s the already busy nature of the Navitimer dial that allows the incorporation of a GMT in such an unfussy manner. We aren’t certain, but we know that we like how it turned out.
BREITLING NAVITIMER 8 B01 CHRONOGRAPH
Now, if you didn’t see or hear the 2018 launch from Breitling, you’re probably looking at this watch and shouting “that’s not a Navitimer!” Allow us a moment to explain. You see, the brand set out to launch a new series, and without realizing the uproar it would create, an entire series was launched under the name of ‘Navitimer 8’ – which was later promptly and appropriately changed to ‘Aviator 8’ within their catalog.
Nomenclature aside, it’s a supremely handsome watch, powered by the same B01 automatic chronograph movement as the first watch we mentioned on this list. Aside from its generally pleasing design, one of the reasons we’ve added it to the list is that one day (likely at least several decades away), this will be the rare and scarce reference known as Breitling’s mistake. Will it be more desirable to collectors looking for a Breitling for sale at that time? At this point, only time will tell.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Best Breitling Navitimer Models showcase a perfect blend of aviation history, technical innovation, and timeless design. From vintage-inspired reissues to modern iterations with advanced movements, each Navitimer offers something unique for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re drawn to the iconic slide rule bezel, the versatile GMT function, or the refined aesthetics of more contemporary models, the Navitimer collection stands as a testament to Breitling’s enduring legacy in both aviation and horology. Choosing a Navitimer means investing in a watch that not only pays homage to a rich heritage but also delivers exceptional performance and style for today’s world.
