AVIATION ICONS

Breitling celebrates its 140th year with the release of the Navitimer GMT and Automatic 41, plus a limited-edition self-winding Cosmonaute.

Marking Breitling’s ‘140 Years of Firsts’, the Swiss watchmaker is all set to launch an array of new models, including two updated icons; the Navitimer (the first wristwatch for pilots to combine a chronograph and a computational slide rule) and the Cosmonaute (a 24- hour take on the Navitimer that became the first Swiss wristwatch in space).

THE ICONIC NAVITIMER GMT AND AUTOMATIC 41

When the design of the Breitling Navitimer came out in 1952, it was an instant hit with airline pilots. Breitling had already played a key role in the emergence of commercial flight, as its onboard timekeepers became standard equipment in propeller planes and later in the early days of the jet airliners. Featuring a circular slide rule that allowed pilots to make critical calculations, such as rate of climb and fuel consumption, the Navitimer was the original wrist-worn onboard computer and ultimately established Breitling as the “Official supplier to world aviation”.

Breitling started its Navitimer redesign back in 2022, with the original chronograph receiving the first update. Today, Breitling continues the Navitimer evolution with two new pared-down executions: a GMT and a three- hand Automatic, each in a universally wearable 41-mm size.

While keeping the Navitimer’s iconic look, the Automatic’s clean face ensures the intricate slide rule stands out while streamlining the overall aesthetics. Breitling incorporated a notched bezel for a contemporary touch, and alternating polished and brushed finishes that add a dynamic play of light.

Erling Haaland joins the Navitimer squad: Haaland, who’s been a Breitling ambassador since 2022, will be the face of the Navitimer in the brand’s anniversary year.

THE COSMONAUTE B12

Back in 1962, Scott Carpenter, one of the Mercury Seven astronauts asked Breitling if it could modify its Navitimer’s design for space exploration. Carpenter asked for a 24-hour dial to distinguish day from night in orbit, leading to the creation of the Cosmonaute. This timepiece accompanied Carpenter on his 1962 mission, becoming the first Swiss wristwatch in space. The latest Cosmonaute is limited to 250 pieces and features an 18k red-gold case deep green dial, golden numerals, black alligator leather strap, and the Breitling manufacture caliber B12 self-winding chronograph movement.

Georges Kern, CEO of Breitling concludes: “All this year, we’ll be talking about our 140 Years of Firsts and when it comes to these two watches—the Navitimer and Cosmonaute—you cannot overstate the significance they’ve had for our brand, for aviation, and for watchmaking as a whole.”