Breitling - The Geneva Watch Auction: SEVEN Geneva Saturday, May 12, 2018 | Phillips
  • Manufacturer: Breitling
    Year: Circa 1965
    Reference No: 765 CP
    Case No: 1'140'877
    Model Name: Co-Pilot "Raquel Welch"
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Manual, cal. Venus 178, 17 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Leather
    Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel Breitling pin buckle
    Dimensions: 41mm Diameter
    Signed: Case, dial, movement and buckle signed

  • Catalogue Essay

    In 1953, the Breitling Watch Company launched the first reference 765 AVI: a large pilot chronograph with a 12H rotating steel bezel. The first model displayed a digital 15 minutes counter at 3 o’clock and was referred to as the 765 Digital. This counter design was later replaced by a larger 15 minutes register with oversized luminous markers placed at 3 minute increments.

    In 1965 Breitling updated reference 765 AVI by replacing the steel bezel with an anodized aluminum one. This update was accompanied by a reference change to 765 CP (for Co-Pilot) and the introduction of two different bezels: a full black one and a half black and silver one.

    Even though the Co-Pilot was spotted on Olympic ski champion Jean Claude Killy’s wrist during the 1968 Grenoble winter games, the watch got its nickname and fame after it was worn by one of the greatest sex symbols of the 1960s-1970s, Raquel Welch, in the 1967 James Bond spoof, Fathom.

    With its large diameter, machismo and sex appeal associated with its rarity and overall excellent condition, the present lot will be a worthy addition to any vintage collection.

  • Artist Biography

    Breitling

    Swiss • 1884

    The firm started by Leon Breitling in 1884 is best known for its technical aviation and oceanic watches. Today, all models are outfitted with certified chronometer movements, used for accurate timing. Early aviation pioneers in specialized chronograph timepieces, Breitling introduced the circular slide rule to watches in the 1940s for use by pilots. The firm’s most iconic chronograph, the Navitimer, was introduced in 1954 and continues to be manufactured today. Another key model is the Duograph, a split-seconds chronograph that was Breitling's most prestigious wristwatch during the 1940s through '60s. Their watches are built on their reputation for precision and sturdiness.

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103

Ref. 765 CP
A very attractive and rare stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with black dial and oversized 15-minute register

Circa 1965
41mm Diameter
Case, dial, movement and buckle signed

Estimate
CHF8,000 - 12,000 
€6,900-10,300
$8,500-12,700

Sold for CHF23,750

Contact Specialist
Alexandre Ghotbi
Head of Sale
+41 22 317 81 81
aghotbi@phillips.com

The Geneva Watch Auction: SEVEN

Geneva Auction 12-13 May 2018