製造商: Breitling 年份: 1969 型號: 806 錶殼號碼: 1'308'278 型號名稱: Navitimer 材料: 18k yellow gold 機芯: Manual, Venus 178, 13'', 17 jewels 錶帶/ 錶鏈: Crocodile strap 錶扣: Gilt 尺寸: 40mm. Diameter 簽名: Case, dial and movement signed 文學: Paul White "I cronografi da polso" Volume III, pg. 342/343
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The Aircraft Owners and Pilots association (AOPA) originally commissioned these pieces from Breitling in 1952 exclusively for pilots, and usually only for AOPA members. They provided an excellent and straightforward navigational tool for pilots, as the sliding rule could be used to calculate fuel consumption, the duration of flights and distances covered. The catchy name, 'Navitimer’, a simple combination of Navigation & Timer, soon became the official watch of the AOPA and the 'winged' logo of the AOPA replaced the Breitling 'B' on the dial. The earliest models did not tend to have a reference number, but were distinguishable by the engraved 'Breitling' and "B" logo engraved on reverse. Few stylistic or modification changes were made to this classic, except that between 1954-1955, the reference number 806 was assigned to the watch and the Valjoux calibre 72 replaced the original Venus 178 movement, seen here in this example. For obvious reasons, the majority of the Navitimers were cased in stainless steel. A very small quantity, starting in the 1960s, was made in 18k yellow gold. Such examples, especially when preserved in such wonderful original condition, are very rare collectors' watches.
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.