The Breitling Premier collection holds a distinguished place in Breitling watch history. Originally introduced in the 1940s, the Premier line was conceived as a series of elegant chronographs that would appeal to a refined clientele. These timepieces were designed to be worn with pride in the boardroom or at sophisticated social events, marking a departure from Breitling's aviation-focused offerings.
Today's Breitling Premier watches pay homage to this rich heritage while incorporating modern innovations. The contemporary Premier collection, reintroduced in 2018, maintains the original's commitment to elegance and precision. These watches showcase Breitling's ability to balance classic aesthetics with cutting-edge watchmaking technology, resulting in timepieces that are both timeless and relevant in the modern era.
The Breitling Premier collection offers a diverse range of models, each embodying the brand's commitment to precision and style. From classic time-only pieces to complex chronographs, the Premier line caters to various preferences while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic. These watches are distinguished by their refined dials, elegant case designs, and high-performance movements, making them suitable for both formal occasions and everyday wear.
The Breitling Premier B01 stands as the flagship model of the Premier collection. This sophisticated chronograph showcases Breitling's horological expertise through its in-house B01 caliber movement. The Premier B01 typically features a 42mm case, housing a variety of dial options that range from classic silver to bold blue or green.
One of the defining characteristics of the Breitling Premier B01 is its bi-compax chronograph layout, with subdials at 3 and 9 o'clock. This configuration not only provides a balanced aesthetic but also offers excellent readability. The B01 movement, visible through a sapphire caseback, is COSC-certified, ensuring exceptional accuracy and reliability.
The Breitling Premier B09 represents a blend of vintage aesthetics and modern watchmaking prowess. This model typically features a manual-wind movement, paying homage to the original Premier watches of the 1940s. The Premier B09 often comes in a slightly smaller 40mm case, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more understated presence on the wrist.
Dial options for the Premier B09 often include classic colors like silver, black, or blue, complemented by applied hour markers and elegant hands. The manual-wind caliber B09 movement, based on the B01, offers a more engaging experience for watch enthusiasts who appreciate the ritual of winding their timepiece daily.
The Breitling Premier B15 Duograph stands out in the Premier collection as a split-seconds chronograph, also known as a rattrapante. This sophisticated complication allows for the timing of two separate events simultaneously, showcasing Breitling's technical prowess. The Premier B15 Duograph typically features a 42mm case housing the intricate B15 movement.
This model often comes with a striking dial design, featuring a tachymeter scale on the periphery and two chronograph pushers flanking the crown. An additional pusher integrated into the crown operates the split-seconds function. The Breitling Premier B15 Duograph represents the pinnacle of chronograph technology within the Premier line, appealing to serious watch enthusiasts and collectors.
The Breitling Premier B21 represents a modern interpretation of Breitling's chronograph heritage. This model typically features a 42mm case and houses the Breitling Caliber B21 movement, which is based on the high-performance B01 but with additional complications. The Premier B21 often includes features like a chronograph function paired with a complete calendar display.
Dial designs for the Premier B21 are often more complex, featuring subdials for the chronograph functions alongside day, date, and month indicators. This combination of classic chronograph functionality with calendar complications makes the Premier B21 a versatile timepiece suitable for both professional and casual settings.
The Breitling Premier B25 Datora 42 is a sophisticated chronograph that combines multiple complications in an elegant package. This model typically features a 42mm case housing the Breitling Caliber B25 movement, which is based on the ETA 2892-A2 and modified to include a chronograph module and additional complications.
The Premier B25 Datora 42 stands out with its complex dial layout, featuring a chronograph with two subdials, a day-date display, and a moon phase indicator. This combination of features makes it one of the most intricate models in the Premier collection, appealing to those who appreciate both technical complexity and refined aesthetics.
The Breitling Premier Chronograph models embody the essence of the collection's sporty elegance. These watches typically feature a 42mm case housing either the Breitling Caliber 13 or Caliber 23, both based on the ETA 7750 movement. The Premier Chronograph offers a perfect balance of functionality and style, making it suitable for various occasions.
Dial options for the Premier Chronograph often include classic colors like black, blue, or silver, with contrasting subdials for enhanced readability. The chronograph function is complemented by a date window, usually positioned at 6 o'clock. With its versatile design and reliable performance, the Premier Chronograph represents an excellent entry point into the world of luxury chronographs.
The Breitling Premier Automatic 40 offers a more understated option within the Premier collection, focusing on elegant simplicity. As the name suggests, this model typically features a 40mm case, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more modest size. The Premier Automatic 40 is powered by the Breitling Caliber 37, based on the ETA 2895-2, offering reliable timekeeping in a refined package.
Dial designs for the Premier Automatic 40 are often clean and uncluttered, featuring simple hour markers and a date window at 6 o'clock. This model exemplifies the Premier collection's commitment to elegance, providing a versatile timepiece that transitions seamlessly from day to night wear.
The Breitling Premier collection offers a range of specifications that cater to various preferences while maintaining the brand's commitment to quality and performance. From case materials to movements and complications, each aspect of these timepieces is carefully considered to deliver a superior horological experience. The following overview provides a comprehensive look at the key specifications across the Premier line.
Breitling Premier watches showcase a variety of premium materials in their construction, reflecting both luxury and durability. The primary case material used across the collection is stainless steel, known for its resilience and versatility. This robust alloy ensures that Premier watches can withstand daily wear while maintaining their polished appearance.
For those seeking a more luxurious option, select Premier models are available in 18k red gold. This precious metal adds a warm, rich tone to the watch and elevates its status as a luxury timepiece. In rare, limited edition releases, you might find Premier watches crafted from 18k white gold or even platinum, offering unparalleled exclusivity and prestige.
The heart of any Breitling Premier watch is its movement, and the collection boasts an impressive array of calibers. The flagship models, such as the Premier B01, feature Breitling's in-house Caliber 01 movement. This self-winding chronograph movement is COSC-certified for accuracy and offers a power reserve of approximately 70 hours.
Other models in the collection may use variations of the B01, such as the hand-wound Caliber B09 or the split-seconds Caliber B15. For more accessible options, Breitling employs modified ETA movements like the Caliber 13 (based on ETA 7750) or the Caliber 37 (based on ETA 2895-2). These movements offer reliable performance and easier servicing while maintaining Breitling's standards of precision.
Breitling Premier dials are a canvas for the brand's commitment to both aesthetics and functionality. The collection offers a wide range of dial colors to suit various tastes and occasions. Classic options include cream, black, and silver, providing a timeless look. For those seeking a more distinctive appearance, Premier watches are available with green, pistachio green, blue, copper, anthracite, and champagne dials.
Most Premier models feature a bi-compax layout for chronograph versions, with subdials at 3 and 9 o'clock. Hour markers are typically applied and filled with luminescent material for enhanced readability. The Premier line often incorporates subtle textures on the dial, such as sunburst finishes or fine graining, adding depth and visual interest to the watch face.
The Breitling Premier collection offers a symphony of strap and bracelet options, each designed to complement the watch's sophisticated aesthetic while catering to your personal style. From formal occasions to casual outings, your Premier can adapt effortlessly to these choices:
Breitling has meticulously crafted the Premier collection to suit a variety of wrist sizes and style preferences. Each dimension has been carefully considered to ensure optimal comfort and visual balance. Here's a breakdown of the Premier's key measurements:
Breitling Premier watches are designed to withstand everyday encounters with water. Most models in the collection offer a water resistance rating of 100 meters (10 bar / 330 feet). This level of water resistance protects the watch from rain, splashes, and even short periods of swimming.
It's important to note that while Premier watches can handle some water exposure, they are not designed as dive watches. For more intensive water activities, Breitling offers dedicated collections like the Superocean. Always ensure the crown and pushers are fully secured before exposing the watch to water.
The power reserve of Breitling Premier watches varies depending on the specific movement used. Models featuring the in-house Breitling Caliber 01 movement, such as the Premier B01, boast an impressive power reserve of approximately 70 hours. This extended reserve allows the watch to continue running accurately even if not worn for a few days.
Other models in the Premier collection, such as those using modified ETA movements, typically offer a power reserve of around 40 to 48 hours. While slightly shorter, this is still ample for daily wear, ensuring the watch keeps time reliably between winding sessions or periods of wear.
The chronograph function is a defining feature of many Breitling Premier watches. Most chronograph models in the collection feature a two-register layout with subdials at 3 and 9 o'clock. The chronograph typically measures elapsed time up to 30 minutes, with some models offering up to 12 hours of measurement.
Operation of the chronograph is intuitive, with start/stop controlled by the pusher at 2 o'clock and reset by the pusher at 4 o'clock. The central chronograph seconds hand allows for precise timing to 1/4 or 1/8 of a second, depending on the specific movement. Some Premier models, like the B15 Duograph, offer additional complications such as split-seconds functionality for timing multiple events simultaneously.
The Breitling Premier collection offers a range of prices, reflecting the diverse models and materials within the line. For new, current models, prices typically start around $4,000 to $5,000 for the Premier Automatic or entry-level chronograph versions in stainless steel. Mid-range models like the Premier B01 Chronograph can range from $7,000 to $9,000, depending on the specific configuration and materials.
Limited editions, models with precious metal cases, or those featuring complex complications like the B15 Duograph or B25 Datora can command higher prices, often ranging from $10,000 to $20,000 or more. These higher-end pieces reflect the intricate craftsmanship and premium materials used in their construction.
Pre-owned Breitling Premier watches present an opportunity for collectors to acquire these timepieces at more attractive price points. Depending on the model, condition, and rarity, pre-owned Premier watches can be found starting from about $3,000 for older or less sought-after versions. Well-maintained examples of popular models like the B01 Chronograph might range from $5,000 to $7,000 in the pre-owned market. Rare or limited edition models in excellent condition can sometimes fetch prices close to or even exceeding those of new models, particularly if they come with original packaging and documentation.
The Breitling Premier collection embodies Breitling's commitment to horological excellence, seamlessly merging vintage-inspired design with cutting-edge watchmaking technology. The Premier line's versatility – from its understated automatics to its complex chronographs - appeals to a wide range of collectors and enthusiasts. Our clientele appreciates these timepieces not just as reliable instruments, but as wearable art that represents both heritage and innovation in the world of luxury watches.”
- Paul Altieri, Founder & CEO of Bob's Watches
When it comes to acquiring a Breitling Premier, Bob's Watches stands out as your premier destination. Our team's unparalleled expertise in luxury timepieces, particularly in the Breitling lineup, ensures that you receive not just a watch, but a thoroughly vetted piece of horological excellence. We pride ourselves on transparency, offering detailed information about each Premier model's condition, history, and unique features.
Our rigorous authentication process guarantees that every Breitling Premier in our inventory is 100% genuine, giving you peace of mind with your purchase. Moreover, our competitive pricing structure allows you to invest in these exceptional timepieces at fair market value, making Bob's Watches the trusted choice for both seasoned collectors and first-time buyers of the iconic Breitling Premier.
Embark on a new horological journey by selling your Breitling Premier with Bob's Watches. We understand the significance of your timepiece and are committed to offering a seamless, respectful selling process that honors its legacy. Our team of experts will guide you through each step, ensuring your Premier's value is fully recognized, and its story continues with distinction. With our extensive knowledge of the Breitling market, we provide fair and competitive offers for your Premier watch. Ready to start? Visit our “sell my breitling watch” page today and experience the Bob's Watches difference in selling your cherished timepiece.
The Breitling Premier is a collection of elegant watches that combines vintage-inspired design with modern watchmaking technology, offering chronographs and time-only models suitable for both formal and casual wear.
Yes, the Breitling Premier offers excellent value with its high-quality construction, in-house movements, and versatile designs, making it a worthy investment for watch enthusiasts and collectors.
Breitling Premier watches, especially those with COSC-certified movements like the B01, are highly accurate, typically maintaining precision within -4 to +6 seconds per day under normal wearing conditions.