Manufacturer: Breitling Year: 1969 Reference No: 7650 Case No: 1’277’914 Model Name: Co-Pilot Material: Stainless steel Calibre: Manual, cal. 7738, 17 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Leather Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel Dimensions: 42.5mm Diameter Signed: Case, dial and movement signed Accessories: Accompanied by Breitling Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in 1969. Further accompanied by original strap and associated buckle.
Catalogue Essay
Established in 1884, Breitling is best known for their aviation-related timepieces such as the iconic Navitimer. But the manufacturer was an early pioneer in the development of wristwatch chronographs, with their innovative tool watches supplying armed forces worldwide, as well as timepieces for racing, diving, and leisure activities. The Breitling 765 Co-Pilot was created, as its name suggests, for airplane pilots, who benefited from an oversized 15-minute counter at 3 o’clock and twelve hour rotating bezel. The Co-Pilot replaced an earlier reference 765 "Digital" that featured a digital minute’s counter at 3 o’clock and incorporated an oversized minute counter fitted with large luminous indicators at each three minute increment. Legibility in low light conditions and accuracy were paramount in the creation of this Co-Pilot, and it was eventually even adopted for military use. In 1965, Breitling launched the reference 7650 Co-Pilot with a larger 42.5mm diameter case and rotating bi-directional black aluminium bezel with 12 hour markers.
The present ref. 7650 Co-Pilot is amongst the finest and best-preserved examples known, preserved in virtually new, unworn condition. The case retains all of its original and extremely sharp factory finished surfaces, while the “reverse panda” dial and original “sword” hands are beautifully preserved. Remarkably, the luminous bezel triangle remains intact and even the original strap with virtually no signs of wear is included. Dating from 1969, the chronograph is a “museum-quality” example of mid-20th century aviation tool watches that are highly desirable today.
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.
