Breitling Takes Flight with the Navitimer B01 Chronograph 46 US Limited Edition

Breitling Takes Flight with the Navitimer B01 Chronograph 46 US Limited Edition

Adrienne Faurote
By Adrienne Faurote August 9, 2023

Breitling, a brand steeped in aviation heritage, introduces the Navitimer B01 Chronograph 46 U.S. Limited Edition, an exquisite timepiece crafted in a restricted run of only 300 pieces. A homage to precision, innovation, and aviation legacy, this exceptional watch marries iconic design with cutting-edge technology, capturing the hearts of aviation enthusiasts and horological connoisseurs alike.

The Navitimer B01 Chronograph 46 U.S. Limited Edition presents a bold anthracite dial adorned with black sub-dials, housed within a 46-millimeter stainless steel and 18-karat red gold case. The watch is elegantly secured by a black alligator leather strap complete with a folding clasp, culminating in a seamless fusion of form and function. This exclusive masterpiece is available solely in the United States through Breitling Boutiques, authorized Retailers, and Breitling.com.

Breitling Takes Flight with the Navitimer B01 Chronograph 46 U.S. Limited EditionPhoto Credit: Courtesy of Breitling

Powering this limited edition marvel is the Breitling Manufacture Caliber 01, a COSC-certified chronometer boasting a substantial 70-hour power reserve and water resistance of up to 30 meters. Each of the 300 watches bears a unique caseback engraving, proudly displaying “ONE OF 300” and the distinctive “LIMITED EDITION” insignia.

With a deep-rooted history, the timepiece was conceived by Willy Breitling in 1952 as the introduction of a wrist-worn chronograph featuring a circular slide rule revolutionized aviation by enabling pilots to perform intricate flight calculations. Two years later, the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) bestowed its official timepiece status upon the Navitimer, etching its winged emblem at the 12 o’clock position and forever imprinting its name in horological history.

Breitling Takes Flight with the Navitimer B01 Chronograph 46 U.S. Limited EditionPhoto Credit: Courtesy of Breitling

True to its legacy, the Navitimer B01 Chronograph 46 U.S. Limited Edition seamlessly integrates classic design elements with modern refinements. The iconic circular slide rule, baton indexes, trio of chronograph counters, and distinctive notched bezel for optimal grip pay homage to the original design. Noteworthy enhancements include a streamlined slide rule and a domed crystal that collectively present a sleeker profile, while the interplay between polished and brushed metal components adds subtle brilliance to its aesthetic.

Breitling Takes Flight with the Navitimer B01 Chronograph 46 U.S. Limited EditionPhoto Credit: Courtesy of Breitling

Further modernization takes shape in the slimmer silhouette of the oscillating weight, enriching the open-caseback view of the COSC-certified Breitling Manufacture Caliber 01. This movement, backed by a five-year warranty, empowers wearers with the convenience of changing the date through a discreet window at 6 o’clock. A nostalgic touch that enthusiasts will cherish is the return of the AOPA wings to their iconic position at 12 o’clock.

Breitling Takes Flight with the Navitimer B01 Chronograph 46 U.S. Limited EditionPhoto Credit: Courtesy of Breitling

For seven decades, Breitling’s original pilot’s watch, the Navitimer, has soared in popularity among aviators and trendsetters alike. Celebrated by astronauts in space and adorned by luminaries on earth, it stands as both a testament to Breitling’s aviation legacy and a beacon of timeless style in the realm of horology. The Navitimer B01 Chronograph 46 U.S. Limited Edition is an exquisite embodiment of this enduring legacy, embodying the brand’s commitment to precision, innovation, and the art of watchmaking mastery.