REBORN REPLICA
Following in the footsteps of the Navitimer Ref. 806 1959, the watchmaker from La Chaux-de-Fonds unveils new limited editions of one of its iconic models from the 1950s adored by aviators.
Right in the middle of the 20th century, no aviator would ever dare jump into their pilot’s seat without an accurate timepiece on their wrist to back them up when flying. In 1953, Breitling offered them the Co-Pilot Ref. 765 AVI, a pilot’s watch which combined all the must-have adornments and qualities to meet their specific needs. This year, the manufacture proposes a re-edition to collectors which reproduces the style of this, now a watchmaking icon, model down to the very finest detail. The AVI Ref 765 1953 Re-Edition showcases an optimally-readable dial. On the matte black which adorns it, an hour chapter stands out with its XL-sized Arabic numerals coated with hand-applied Super-LumiNova® chosen in a shade identical to that of the original model. In the center, three counters also attract attention – two totalizers (15 minutes and 12 hours) devoted to measuring short-cycle time and a small seconds counter.
Although the watch boasts a somewhat vintage look, the time data is driven by a highly up-to-the-minute caliber. The hand-wound movement with COSC-certified chronometry delivers a comfortable power reserve of 70 hours.
Breitling proposes three limited series complemented by a leather strap. All host a 41.1 mm-diameter case waterproof to a depth of 30 m and topped with a bidirectional bezel. The first in steel is available as a 1,953-piece series. The two others, rather more precious, in red gold and in platinum, are respectively issued in 253- and 153-piece editions.
Price: EUR7,700 (steel) – EUR20,480 (red gold) – EUR38,000 (platinum)
By Dan Diaconu