Breitling Commemorates The Orbiter 3’s Historic Flight With The Launch Of The Aerospace B70 Orbiter

It’s a big year for Breitling as the brand commemorates its 140th anniversary while also celebrating the 25th anniversary of a historical event in aviation history: the first nonstop balloon flight around the world. In honor of this milestone, Breitling introduces the Aerospace B70 Orbiter, a watch that encapsulates the spirit of adventure and contains a piece of the history-making balloon.

Throughout its 140 years, Breitling has been at the forefront of innovation in timekeeping for air, land, and sea, achieving numerous “firsts” and setting milestones in sustainability. The brand’s anniversary year is filled with events, exhibitions, and special launches, starting with the unveiling of the Aerospace B70 Orbiter. This timepiece pays tribute to the Breitling Orbiter 3’s groundbreaking voyage, celebrating an adventure that pushed the boundaries of human achievement.

On March 21, 1999, balloonists Bertrand Piccard and Brian Jones embarked on a daring journey that would see them become the first to circumnavigate the globe nonstop in a balloon. Landing in the Egyptian desert after a voyage of 45,633 km lasting 19 days, 21 hours, and 47 minutes, they broke records for the longest flight in both distance and duration. This achievement marked the culmination of numerous attempts by various teams and was hailed as the final great flight challenge of the 20th century.

The Aerospace B70 Orbiter, launching on March 21, 2024, exactly 25 years after the historic flight, is a testament to this incredible journey. With a bright-orange dial mirroring the color of the Orbiter 3 capsule, the watch features a segment of the original balloon fabric, visible through its transparent caseback. This detail, alongside the Breitling Orbiter 3 mission logo and a commemorative inscription, makes each watch a living piece of history.

The watch, available with a titanium bracelet or a black rubber strap, is designed for both durability and comfort. Its titanium construction ensures a robust yet lightweight wear, ideal for the adventurous spirit. The Aerospace B70 Orbiter is powered by the Breitling Manufacture Caliber B70, a COSC-certified SuperQuartz™ movement, offering unparalleled precision and a range of functions to suit the most demanding missions.

Breitling CEO Georges Kern reflects on the brand’s enduring legacy and its connection to the skies, stating, “Since the birth of aviation, Breitling has been there for all those who looked to the sky and dared to dream.” The Aerospace B70 Orbiter stands as a historical piece of the past, while also showcasing Breitling’s unwavering dedication to innovation and its vision for the future of aviation.