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Breitling Unveils New Navitimer Editions: A Concorde Tribute and Two Perpetual Calendars

March 18

Breitling has recently expanded its iconic Navitimer collection with three distinctive new models. These releases cater to a variety of horological tastes, from aviation enthusiasts to collectors of intricate complications. The lineup includes a special titanium edition commemorating the legendary Concorde's maiden flight, alongside two sophisticated perpetual calendar timepieces offered in striking steel-and-platinum and full-platinum variations.

The new collection is headlined by the Navitimer Tribute to Concorde, a limited edition in titanium that draws inspiration from the supersonic jet's groundbreaking achievements. Complementing this aeronautical homage are two perpetual calendar watches, one combining steel and platinum, and the other crafted entirely from platinum, each embodying Breitling's commitment to precision and complex watchmaking. These releases underscore the brand's enduring legacy in both aviation and high horology.

The Navitimer Concorde Tribute: A Nod to Supersonic History

Breitling's latest titanium Navitimer, the B01 Chronograph 43 Tribute to Concorde, stands as a remarkable dedication to the supersonic aircraft's 50th anniversary. This limited-edition piece, following another titanium Navitimer released earlier this year, distinguishes itself with a captivating dark blue dial. This unique hue is inspired by the view passengers would have experienced at Concorde's cruising altitude of 60,000 feet, where the Earth's atmosphere transitions to the deep blue of the stratosphere. The contrasting white sub-dials and inner slide rule echo Concorde's famed moniker, the "White Bird," adding a touch of historical authenticity to this pilot's watch.

With a robust 43mm case diameter, a lug-to-lug measurement of 49.07mm, and a thickness of 14.94mm, this timepiece maintains the Navitimer's characteristic presence. It offers the standard 30m water resistance, making it a functional yet elegant daily companion. Powering this special edition is Breitling's in-house automatic caliber B01, known for its reliability and precision. The movement provides a substantial 70-hour power reserve and features a column wheel and vertical clutch for smooth chronograph operation. Limited to just 593 pieces—a direct reference to Concorde's four powerful Olympus 593 turbojet engines—each watch boasts intricate case back engravings that include "One of 593," "Tribute to Concorde," "Jetliner," and "Mach 2," highlighting the aircraft's incredible cruising speed. Paired with a blue alligator strap, this commemorative watch is priced at €9,750 / US$10,600, offering collectors a piece of aviation history on their wrist.

Elegance and Precision: The Navitimer Perpetual Calendars

Expanding its sophisticated offerings, Breitling has unveiled two new Perpetual Calendar versions of the Navitimer B19 Chronograph 43. These models, while based on an existing design, are presented with luxurious material combinations that elevate their appeal. The first, reference LB19211A1C1P1, is a limited edition of 75 pieces, featuring a full platinum case and bezel. Measuring 43mm in diameter with a 49.07mm lug-to-lug length and 14.94mm thickness, this timepiece showcases a stunning lacquered dark blue dial. The dial is artfully complemented by a black outer slide rule and a white inner scale, offering exceptional legibility and a refined aesthetic. It comes paired with a marine-blue alligator leather strap, tapering from 22mm to 18mm, secured by a steel folding clasp, underscoring its premium craftsmanship.

The second Perpetual Calendar model, reference PB1921251B1A1, offers a more understated yet equally elegant option with a steel case and a distinctive knurled platinum bezel. Its anthracite dial, inspired by the serene depth of space, features a black outer slide rule and a white inner scale. This version is available with either a brown alligator strap or a seven-row steel bracelet, providing versatility for various preferences. Both Perpetual Calendar watches feature lacquered dials adorned with raised metal rings around the chronograph and calendar sub-dials, with a beautifully detailed moonphase display at 12 o'clock. The movements are meticulously regulated by a one-step crown-correction system for calendar adjustments, supplemented by individual pushers at 8 and 10 o’clock. An 18K red-gold rotor, visible through the sapphire case back, handles automatic winding. All new Navitimer models, including these Perpetual Calendars, are COSC-certified chronometers, guaranteeing superior accuracy. The full-platinum variant is priced at €49,000 / US$52,000, while the steel-and-platinum model is available for €32,000 / US$31,700, reflecting their premium materials and intricate complications.

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