Excellent: Very slight signs of wear.
Very Good: Light to normal wear.
Good: Wearable, with visible signs of wear.
Vintage: Typically 30+ years old; condition varies.
Note: All watches are 100% authentic. They are polished as needed but may still have minor scratches.
This vintage Breitling watch is in overall great, honest vintage condition. The case is strong with some scratches, nicks, and normal signs of wear throughout. The inside caseback is stamped "Breitling Watch LTD SWISS." All the writing and numbers on the caseback are clearly visible. The bezel is in great condition and is smooth to rotate bi-directionally; the black finish shows wear/ is worn around the edge and has some scratches/ nicks. The inner bezel has developed some patina. The watch has retained its correct "B" crown. The dial has remained glossy and in great, honest condition with a fine patina throughout and some wear around the sub-dials. The sub-dials have developed light patina. The dial has some marks/ patina that can be hard to notice. The lume on the dial has developed patina and aged to a lovely pale yellow color. The hands have developed a similar patina to the lume on the dial, the central chronograph hand is still vibrant with a light patina on it. The hands have developed patina and show some wear. The crystal has wear and scratches.
Breitling began developing the Navitimer in 1952, and it was released to the public in 1955. Early examples used the Valjoux 72 movement before Breitling later switched to the Venus 178. One of the most recognizable characteristics of the Navitimer is its slide rule bezel. Breitling filed the patent for its circular slide rule bezel in 1940 and debuted it in 1941 with the Chronomat. The bezel was designed to allow for quick calculations by rotating the two scales against each other. Breitling made numerous variations of the model, which remains in production today.
The watch we have here is circa 1969 and represents the next generation of Navitimers, featuring an automatic movement. It comes from the family of the original owner, who managed to keep the box, blank paperwork, and blank hang-tag, which is not very common. The dial features the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, or “AOPA,” wing logo and is signed at the bottom “Navitimer CHRONO-MATIC.”
Chronomatic refers to the Caliber 11 automatic movement that powers the watch. These were the first generation of automatic Navitimers and used the movement developed by Heuer, Hamilton, and Breitling when they teamed up to create an automatic chronograph movement in the late 1960s. Breitling used the same case as the previous generation of manual-wound Navitimers (ref. 816), and when looking closely at the side of the case at 3 o’clock, there is a black plug where the crown would go if the watch had the manual-wind movement. Breitling would offer these automatic Navitimers with the Caliber 11 and 12 until 1979.
The Navitimer is arguably the most iconic Breitling, and vintage examples are highly sought after by collectors. Another reason collectors gravitate toward these watches is their larger case size, which is substantial even by today’s standards but was massive when they first came to market. We don’t come across these “CHRONO-MATIC” versions very often, making this a great example for someone who loves interesting, oversized vintage chronographs.
I love this watch. It is everything Bob's Watches presented it as and more. The watch, while advertised as pre-owned, had all the factory clear plastic protection on the brightwork and the entire watch, including the band, showed no wear at all. I cannot find a single flaw in this timepiece. I love it and will buy more watches from Bob's.
Beautiful condition - as promised. In all reapects.
Beautiful watch and packaging. It arrived quickly and came as described. Love it.
Buying a watch sight unseen can be a daunting undertaking. Everyone who does this will likely have doubts about whether this is a good idea. This in particular is a solid gold watch that typically costs over $15k. The watch came within 24 hours of purchase. Not only was it spectacular, with gold hands, and gold numbers lining the dial, but it came in a 6 lb, burled walnut display box (Rolex comes in a cardboard box) with ALL of the original paperwork and warranty card. As someone who has bought a Breitling from a dealer I could tell this was precisely the identical authentic material. All things considered it was an incredible deal, because they are no longer available.
I have purchase three timepieces from Bob’s. Two Rolexes, and one Breitling in the past month. Each and every one gives the appearance of being brand new. Overnight delivery is an added plus.
Your product review has been submitted for review.
Have Questions AboutThe Breitling Navitimer 1806?
Do you have questions about our Stainless Steel Breitling 1806 for sale? Our team of friendly watch experts is here to assist you. Whether you're curious about its features, authenticity, or purchasing process, we're just a call or email away. Don't hesitate to reach out; your perfect Black Breitling Navitimer watch is just a conversation away.
About Breitling Watches
Breitling's story began in 1884 when Leon Breitling founded his namesake company in Saint-Imier, Switzerland. With a passion for chronographs and precision timekeeping, Breitling quickly established itself as a pioneer in the world of aviation watches. Throughout Breitling watch's history, the brand has been synonymous with quality, reliability, and innovation, creating timepieces that have accompanied adventurers, athletes, and aviators on their most daring escapades. From the introduction of the first wrist-worn chronograph in 1915 to the development of the iconic Navitimer in 1952, Breitling has consistently pushed the boundaries of watchmaking. The brand's commitment to excellence and its strong ties to the world of aviation have earned it a reputation as one of the most respected names in the industry.
Our Authenticity Guarantee
We are proud to present a collection of authentic, unworn or pre-owned luxury watches that have been rigorously verified for authenticity. Each timepiece is subject to an extensive authentication procedure, ensuring that every purchase is made with assurance and worn with prestige. We guarantee a shopping experience free from counterfeits.
