The Breitling Navitimer is an icon, a watch instantly recognizable for its distinctive slide rule bezel and its enduring connection to aviation history. But within the vast and varied Navitimer family lies a particularly coveted sub-group: the Navitimer Chrono-Matic models, powered by Breitling's revolutionary automatic chronograph movements. Among these, the reference 1806 holds a special place, representing a pinnacle of horological achievement and a highly sought-after piece for collectors today. This article delves into the fascinating history, design, and market value of the Breitling Navitimer Chrono-Matic 1806, exploring its significance within the broader context of Breitling chronograph production.
The Breitling Navitimer's story is intertwined with the evolution of aviation itself. Designed in 1952, it quickly became a favorite among pilots for its unparalleled functionality. The slide rule bezel allowed for complex calculations crucial to flight planning, making it an essential tool in the cockpit. However, the early Navitimers were predominantly powered by manually wound chronograph movements, requiring regular winding and potentially interrupting a pilot's focus during critical moments. The arrival of the Chrono-Matic caliber changed everything.
Breitling's Chrono-Matic movement represented a significant leap forward in chronograph technology. In the late 1960s and early 1970s, the watch industry was on the cusp of the quartz revolution. While many brands were hedging their bets on battery-powered movements, Breitling boldly invested in developing its own high-frequency automatic chronograph caliber. This wasn't just any automatic chronograph; the Chrono-Matic, based on the Venus 178 movement and later iterations, offered a level of accuracy and reliability that stood alongside the best manually wound chronographs of the time. It was a testament to Breitling’s commitment to precision and innovation, a commitment that continues to define the brand today.
The reference 1806 perfectly embodies this spirit of innovation. This particular model, produced during a specific period (the exact production years require further research into specific serial numbers), showcases the seamless integration of the Chrono-Matic movement within the familiar Navitimer design. The instantly recognizable slide rule bezel remains, a testament to its enduring practicality and aesthetic appeal. However, the addition of the automatic chronograph function elevates the watch to a new level of sophistication and convenience. The smooth, reliable operation of the automatic movement contrasts with the slightly more demanding nature of its manually wound predecessors, making it both a more practical and more luxurious timepiece.
The aesthetic details of the 1806 are as compelling as its mechanical performance. While exact specifications can vary slightly depending on the specific production run, the general design characteristics remain consistent. The dial typically features the classic Navitimer layout, with its easily readable sub-dials for the chronograph functions. The hands and indices are often applied, providing a sense of depth and enhancing legibility. The case material is usually stainless steel, offering a robust and durable construction befitting a pilot’s watch. The overall design maintains a classic elegance, perfectly balancing form and function – a hallmark of Breitling's design philosophy.
The Breitling Navitimer Chrono-Matic 1806 in the Market Today:
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