In 1884, Leon Breitling started a workshop that specialized in creating chronographs and precision counters for professionals and industries. Today, Breitling watches have become a statement of power and authority among celebrities and sports icons. These watches were originally crafted for American air force pilots and navy personnel. Differentiated in four categories, the Navitimer, Windrider, Professional, and Aeromarine, the typical Breitling watch sports a large circular dial with a host of additional features. The only incidence where Breitling designed a rectangular dial watch was for the ‘Breitling for Bentley’ collection. A collection inspired by both Breitling’s and Bentley’s quest for excellence, this collection excels in craftsmanship and aesthetic sophistication.
1952 witnessed the creation of the most highly acclaimed Breitling watch, the Navitimer Chronograph. Considered a landmark in professional watch design, this watch justifies Breitling’s slogan ‘Instruments for Professionals’. Another significant achievement by Breitling was the Breitling Emergency. Designed for air pilots, the Breitling Emergency watch was fitted with a powerful radio transmitter with a range of over 160 kilometers. Squadron Ldr. Steve Brooks and Flight Lt. Hugh Quentin Smith, both British pilots, owe their lives to this watch. When their helicopter crashed in the blistering cold of Antarctica, a Chilean Otter aircraft spotted them after receiving a signal from their watches. The Emergency is also available for non pilots, on signing an agreement proclaiming that they bear all consequences, should they accidentally trigger the beacon.
Breitling watches have high resistance against electrical and magnetic disturbances. Their chronometers are well armored and are resistant to pressure. Also, their synthetic sapphire face helps endure high pressure and harsh impacts. |
