The Breitling Navitimer 2022 pays tribute to its predecessor, which celebrates its 70th anniversary this year. It incorporates features that will be appreciated by true fans of the brand.
I have just completed a training course focused on Breitling brand innovations, which took place at the Falkensteiner Hotel in Bratislava. It focused on presenting innovations that have dominated the skies for 70 continuous years. I emphasize continuity because the Breitling Navitimer has never been out of production since its inception in 1952, which is truly remarkable. Throughout the training, I had in mind an article I wrote back in 2018. When George Kern took the helm of the company a year earlier, he spoke of pressing the reset button—or, rather, of returning the brand to its roots. Yes, that's right, from 2018 to today, Breitling is culminating its vision in the form of the old-new Navitimer model.
The return to the original must be understood
As is often the case, redesigning a well-functioning model is very challenging, as a strong fan base finds it difficult to get used to new features. We saw this when Breitling moved away from the winged "B" and changed its logo to a classic stylized "B."
However, the redesigned model draws most of its inspiration from the original model. That is why you will no longer find the controversial "B" on the dial, but the AOPA (Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association) logo. We could argue that Breitling is speculating again, but the truth is that the original order for watches that would also include a slide rule came to Breitling from this aviation association.
I would like to point out that the original Navitimer models were not intended for commercial sale, but only for club members. So much for the AOPA logo.
Another significant change to the case is the scale inside the dial. In the previous model, it was set at an angle, but now it is flat, giving the entire dial a different look. The magnifying effect is enhanced by the new sapphire crystal, which is convex, but not in the way we are used to. While the glass used to be convex across its entire surface, in the new Navitimer it protrudes from the arc and then curves. The date has been moved to the 6 o'clock position and integrated into the chronograph counter. Until now, in the case of B01 calibers, it was located between the 4 and 5 indices. On the back, you can see a redesigned and newly skeletonized rotor, allowing you to see more of the "innards" of the movement than before.
The lugs are more curved, giving the watch a better fit on the wrist. The crown is more offset from the case, making it much easier to wind the watch. Breitling has redesigned the chronograph pushers so that the sides are matte, but the top, which you touch with your fingertip, is polished. Why was this change made? Because that's how the original model was. And I almost forgot: we were used to the tip of the second hand bearing a B, but that's no longer there. Why? Because it wasn't on the original AOPA either.
Three sizes will be available: 41, 43, and 46 mm, along with new dial colors that we have never seen before. Each model, regardless of size, will be equipped with a B01 caliber. There are no plans for a two-tone or GMT version at this time. Why? Because the original AOPAs were either gold or steel. You will no longer be able to order the watch with a buckle or folding clasp, but only with a folding clasp, and only a crocodile strap will be available. I would like to point out that as retailers, we very much welcome this.
No longer just for pilots
Breitling has also changed its marketing communication for the Navitimer model. It realizes that only a minority of customers with these watches actually fly. Therefore, the new Navitimer should become part of your travels and discoveries, no longer confined to the cockpit of an aircraft. Water resistance remains at 30 meters, a fact that many people criticize. But the truth is that Breitling has already tried to build a model with higher WR, but thanks to the bidirectional rotating bezel with a ruler, the designers would have to solve quite a few problems and the watch would gain unwanted volume. nbsp;Over lunch, we got Thomas to reveal some interesting background information about the company and things we can expect in the next few years. If even half of what he said comes true, we really have something to look forward to.
Check out the current Breitling Navitimer offer in our e-shop:
