The Breitling Navitimer. The name itself conjures images of soaring biplanes, meticulously planned flight paths, and the unwavering precision demanded by aviation. Introduced in 1952, the Navitimer quickly became a legend, beloved by pilots and enthusiasts alike for its iconic design and unparalleled functionality. This review focuses on the "old" Navitimer II, a model that bridges the gap between the classic Navitimer and the more modern iterations, offering a unique blend of heritage and contemporary features. Understanding its place in Breitling's history is crucial to appreciating its enduring appeal.
A Legacy in the Sky: The Navitimer's Heritage
Before diving into the specifics of the "old" Navitimer II, let's briefly explore the lineage. The original Navitimer, with its instantly recognizable slide rule bezel, was a game-changer. It provided pilots with a crucial tool for performing complex flight calculations, directly on their wrist. This functionality, combined with its robust construction and impeccable Swiss craftsmanship, cemented its place as a staple in the cockpits of countless aircraft. Its enduring popularity transcends its practical use, becoming a symbol of style and sophistication.
The Navitimer evolved over the decades, with various iterations and refinements. The "old" Navitimer II represents a specific period in this evolution, a transitional phase before the introduction of later, more significantly redesigned models. This makes it a particularly interesting watch for collectors and enthusiasts seeking a piece of Breitling history with a slightly more modern touch than the original.
The "Old" Navitimer II: A Detailed Examination
Pinpointing the exact years defining the "old" Navitimer II is challenging, as Breitling's model naming conventions aren't always strictly chronological. However, generally, we're referring to models produced before the significant design changes that marked the introduction of the newer Navitimer II generations. These earlier models often feature subtle differences in case size, dial design, and movement compared to their successors.
Design and Aesthetics:
The "old" Navitimer II retains the core elements of the classic Navitimer design: the iconic circular slide rule bezel, the three chronograph sub-dials neatly arranged, and the distinctive Breitling logo. However, depending on the specific reference number (e.g., Breitling A13322, Breitling D13022, etc.), subtle variations exist. Some models might feature slightly larger cases, different hand styles, or varied dial textures. The overall aesthetic remains undeniably Navitimer, but with a slightly more contemporary feel compared to the vintage originals. The watch's size, typically around 41-43mm, makes it comfortably wearable for most wrists.
Functionality and Movement:
The heart of the "old" Navitimer II is usually a Breitling caliber, often a variant of the automatic chronograph movement. While specific movements varied across production runs, you'll typically find high-quality self-winding mechanisms renowned for their accuracy and reliability. These movements offer the standard chronograph functions: start, stop, and reset, along with the all-important slide rule bezel for flight calculations. The precision and robustness of these movements are hallmarks of Breitling's commitment to quality.
Materials and Construction:
The "old" Navitimer II models typically feature stainless steel cases, though some limited editions might incorporate other materials. The crystal is usually sapphire, offering excellent scratch resistance. The bracelets and straps vary, with options ranging from classic Breitling bracelets to leather straps, allowing for customization to individual preferences. The overall build quality is typically excellent, reflecting Breitling's reputation for creating durable and long-lasting timepieces.
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