From the multifunctional space watch to the timeless allure of antique timepieces, Breitling—140 years young—has unveiled yet another breathtaking masterpiece in celebration of its storied anniversary.
For this milestone occasion, the three flagship collections—Premier, Navitimer, and Chronomat—have each launched exclusive limited editions. All are powered by Breitling’s latest innovation: the B19 in-house automatic movement. This cutting-edge mechanism boasts a perpetual calendar moon phase chronograph function, is COSC-certified for precision, and offers an impressive power reserve of up to 96 hours.
The Premier series showcases the B19 Datora chronograph, housed in an elegant 18K red gold case measuring 42mm in diameter. Water-resistant to 100 meters, it features Arabic numeral hour markers and signature rectangular chronograph pushers. Meanwhile, the Navitimer series dazzles with its 18K red gold case, spanning 43mm in diameter and water-resistant to 30 meters.
Its dial, crafted from luxurious 18K red gold, radiates opulence. Rounding out the trio, the Chronomat series embraces the Super Chronomat design, boasting an 18K red gold case at 44mm in diameter. It includes a unidirectional ratcheted rotating bezel inlaid with black ceramic and is water-resistant to 100 meters.
Each timepiece exhibits a harmonious blend of polished and brushed finishes on their cases, though subtle differences distinguish them.
At the heart of these masterpieces lies the remarkable B19 movement—a true landmark following the success of the B01. Featuring a 22K red gold rotor engraved with the historic Montbrillant pattern, this movement drives a sophisticated chronograph system utilizing a column wheel and vertical clutch structure.
At the 3 o’clock position, a 30-minute chronograph cumulatively displays the date; at 6 o’clock, the leap year and month are showcased; at 9 o’clock, the running seconds and day of the week appear; and finally, at 12 o’clock, the mesmerizing moon phase graces the dial.
Delving into finer details, one notices the distinct hand colors tailored to each model. For instance, in the Premier collection, both the date number 31 and the leap year hand gleam in vibrant red, while its moon phase presents a strikingly serious tone. Conversely, the moon phases in the other two models depict a charming miniature of the moon’s face.
Each of these exquisite watches is strictly limited to just 140 pieces worldwide. They arrive in sumptuous wooden boxes lined with suede, accompanied by a deluxe edition of the “140 Years in 140 Stories” collector’s book. The cover is personalized with the owner’s chosen anniversary limited-edition timepiece, while the pages brim with captivating illustrations and narratives chronicling Breitling’s illustrious legacy.
As 2024 continues to unfold, there’s no doubt that Breitling will unveil even more thrilling surprises in the months ahead.
Declan Simmons 
Felix Palmer 
Natalie Martin
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