Breitling Watches Buying Guide

Breitling watches has always been at the forefront of stylish deign with innovative features. From the iconic Breitling Navitimer, a pilot's watch with a slide rule bezel, to the stylish and modern Breitling Premier collection, the brand offers a diverse range of high-quality timepieces to suit various tastes and needs.

In recent years, Breitling has undergone an exciting reinvention under new leadership. While still maintaining their commitment to technical excellence and rich heritage, the brand has streamlined its collections and introduced vintage-inspired designs to appeal to a broader audience. This has resulted in a successful turnaround, with Breitling now offering robustly stylish watches suitable for everyday wear across a wide range of occasions.

Whether you're a professional in need of a reliable tool watch, an aviation enthusiast drawn to their pilot's watches, a diver seeking a high-performance timepiece, or simply someone who appreciates fine watchmaking and timeless style, Breitling likely has a watch that will capture your heart. In this comprehensive buying guide, we'll explore some of the best Breitling watches across their major collections - Navitimer, Superocean, Chronomat, Avenger, Premier and more. We'll delve into the key features, history, and design details to help you find the perfect Breitling watch for your needs and tastes.

Breitling's Rich History and Heritage

The history of Breitling begins in 1884 when Léon Breitling founded the company in Saint-Imier, Switzerland. Initially focusing on chronographs, which were in high demand for industrial and scientific applications, Breitling quickly gained a reputation for precision and quality. As the 20th century progressed, Breitling became closely tied to the world of aviation, introducing the Breitling Navitimer in the 1930s - a pilot's watch designed for use in the cockpit, featuring a circular slide rule bezel that allowed for various calculations during flight.

Breitling continued to innovate, developing watches for both aviation and diving. In the 1940s, they introduced the Chronomat, a watch popular among scientists and mathematicians which would later evolve into the iconic aviator timepiece we know today. The 1950s saw the launch of the Superocean, a dive watch with impressive water resistance and a bold design.

Breitling also played a significant role in the development of the wrist chronograph. In 1934, they patented the first independent chronograph push piece, separating the stop/start functions from the crown. Later, in 1969, they were part of the race to develop the world's first self-winding chronograph movement, working alongside Heuer, Buren and Dubois Depraz.

Despite facing challenges during the quartz crisis of the 1970s, Breitling persevered and continued to innovate under new leadership in the 1980s. They reintroduced the Chronomat with a redesigned look, which would become a cornerstone of their modern collection. The Breitling Emergency, launched in the 1990s, was the first wristwatch with a built-in emergency locator beacon, showcasing Breitling's commitment to producing watches that went beyond simple timekeeping.

More recently, Breitling has undergone a revitalization under the leadership of Georges Kern, who took over as CEO in 2017. Kern has brought a new vision to the brand, streamlining the collections, introducing vintage-inspired designs, and focusing on a more inclusive approach to luxury watchmaking. This has resulted in a surge of creativity and popularity for Breitling, cementing its status as a key player in the high-end watch market.

Throughout its history, Breitling has consistently demonstrated a dedication to precision, reliability, and innovation. From the skies to the seas, their watches have accompanied adventurers and professionals in the most demanding of circumstances. Today, Breitling continues to build upon this rich heritage, offering a diverse range of timepieces that blend classic design with modern technology, making them an excellent choice for watch enthusiasts and collectors alike.

How To Choose a Breitling Watch

Choosing the perfect Breitling watch can be rather intimidating, given the wide range of styles, functions, and price points available. To make the process easier, consider the following factors when selecting your ideal timepiece:

Features

Breitling watches are known for their impressive array of features, which vary depending on the model and collection. Some key features to look for include:

• Chronograph functionality for precise timekeeping 
• Tachymeter scales for measuring speed 
• Slide rule bezels for performing calculations 
• GMT or dual time zone complications for tracking multiple time zones 
• Water resistance for underwater use or protection against splashes 
• Luminescent hands and markers for low-light visibility
• Sapphire crystal for scratch resistance 
• Automatic or quartz movements for accuracy and convenience

Consider which features are most important to you based on your lifestyle and intended use of the watch.

Price

Breitling watches span a wide price range, from entry-level models to high-end, limited-edition pieces. Establish a budget before beginning your search to help narrow down your options. Keep in mind that factors such as materials (e.g., gold versus stainless steel), complications, and movement type (automatic versus quartz) can significantly impact the price of a watch.

Type (dive, pilot, dress, etc.)

Breitling offers a variety of watch types designed for specific purposes or styles. Some of the main categories include: 

• Dive watches (Superocean collection): Built for underwater adventures with high water resistance, unidirectional bezels, and luminescent dials. 
• Pilot watches (Navitimer and Aviator 8 collections): Designed for aviators with features like slide rule bezels, chronographs, and large, legible dials. 
• Dress watches (Premier collection): Elegant and sophisticated timepieces suitable for formal occasions, often featuring clean dials and refined case designs.
• Sports watches (Chronomat and Avenger collections): Rugged and versatile watches that can withstand the demands of an active lifestyle, often equipped with chronographs and tachymeter scales.

Always consider your personal style and the primary use of the watch when deciding on a specific type.

New vs. Pre-Owned

Breitling watches are available both new and pre-owned. Buying a new watch ensures that you receive a timepiece in pristine condition with a full manufacturer's warranty. However, new Breitling watches can be quite expensive, especially for limited-edition or high-complication models. 

Pre-owned Breitling watches can offer significant savings compared to their new counterparts. When purchasing a pre-owned watch, be sure to buy from a reputable seller, like Bob's Watches, who can provide a guarantee of authenticity and a warranty. Keep in mind that older watches may require servicing or repairs, which can add to the overall cost of ownership.

Ultimately, the choice between a new or pre-owned Breitling watch comes down to your budget, personal preferences, and the level of risk you are willing to accept when making a purchase.

By considering these factors - features, price, watch type, and new versus pre-owned - you can narrow down your options and find the perfect Breitling watch to suit your needs and style.

Breitling's Current Collections

Today, Breitling is seen as one of the most dynamic and innovative Swiss watch brands. Its range covers men's and women's models and offers everything from the toughest tool watches all the way through to sophisticated dress pieces. The portfolio now spans 10 collections, encompassing watches intended for land, air, and sea. 

Breitling Navitimer

Probably the most recognizable of all Breitling watches – both past and present – is the Breitling Navitimer: the iconic pilot's watch complete with a slide rule bezel designed to be an analog flight computer for mid-flight calculations. Launched in 1952, it borrowed heavily from the brand's original Chronomat model created for scientists and engineers during the 1940s but incorporated the E6B circular slide rule used by pilots onto its bezel. With it, all the most essential flight calculations could be computed quickly and easily – climb and descent speed, fuel consumption, and airborne time (among many others).

Key Features:

• Case Size: 35mm; 38mm; 41mm; 45mm; 46mm
• Materials: Stainless Steel; Two-Tone Steel & Red Gold; 18k Red Gold; Platinum
• Functions: Time Only, Time & Date, Chronograph, Rattrapante Chronograph, GMT
• Dial: Silver; Black; Blue; Anthracite; White; Copper; Mother-of-Pearl
• Bezel: Bidirectional, Slide Rule Scale
• Crystal: Sapphire
• Water Resistance: 30m
• Movement: Breitling B01 (In-House Automatic); Breitling B03 (In-House Automatic); Breitling B09 (In-House Automatic); Breitling 13 (Automatic); Breitling 17 (Automatic); Breitling 24 (Automatic Dual Time Zone)
• Bracelet: Metal Bracelet or Leather Strap

Breitling Navitimer 8 B01 Chronograph 43

The Navitimer 8 B01 Chronograph 43 combines Breitling's aviation heritage with a retro aesthetic. It features a 43mm case, the in-house Breitling B01 movement with a 70-hour power reserve, and a bi-compax chronograph layout. The watch is available in steel or 18k red gold with a choice of dial colors. 

Breitling Navitimer B03 Chronograph

The Navitimer B03 Chronograph is an iconic timepiece renowned for its precision and craftsmanship. It features the in-house B03 chronograph movement, a classic slide rule bezel, and a functional yet aesthetically pleasing dial layout. This model is a coveted piece among watch aficionados. 

Breitling Superocean

The Breitling Superocean line, first introduced in 1957, is a collection of stylish dive watches designed for both professional and recreational use. With water resistance ratings of up to 1,000 meters (3,300 feet) and featuring unidirectional rotating bezels, luminescent hands and indices, and durable construction, the Superocean watches are reliable companions for underwater adventures and everyday wear.

On the 50th anniversary of the original in 2007, Breitling emerged with the Superocean Heritage, a collection with its aesthetics taken directly from the inaugural series, combined with the best of modern technology.

Key Features:

• Case Size: 36mm; 42mm; 44mm; 46mm; 48mm
• Materials: Stainless Steel; Two-Tone Steel & Red Gold; Titanium
• Functions: Time Only, Time & Date
• Dial: Green; Blue; White; Black; Yellow; Orange
• Bezel: Unidirectional w/ Blue, Black, or White Ceramic Insert (Bidirectional on 48mm Model)
• Crystal: Sapphire
• Water Resistance: 200m; 300m; 500m; 1000m; 2000m
• Movement: Breitling 17 Automatic
• Strap/Bracelet: Metal Bracelet; Rubber Strap; NATO Strap

Breitling Superocean Automatic 44

The Breitling Superocean Automatic 44 is a modern take on the classic Superocean design. It features a 44mm case, a unidirectional rotating bezel with a ceramic insert, and is powered by the reliable Breitling Caliber 17 movement. The watch is water-resistant to 1,000 meters and is available on a stainless-steel bracelet, rubber strap, or leather strap.

Breitling Superocean Heritage

The Breitling Superocean Heritage collection is a stunning tribute to the brand's rich diving watch legacy, combining classic 1950s design elements with modern materials and technology. First introduced in 2007 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the original Superocean, these watches feature a timeless aesthetic with sleek, polished cases, unidirectional rotating bezels, and distinct dial designs. Powered by reliable automatic movements, including Breitling's own in-house calibers, the Breitling Superocean models offer a compelling blend of style, performance, and history, making them perfect for diving enthusiasts and those who appreciate the timeless appeal of a well-crafted timepiece.

Key Features

• Case Size: 42mm; 44mm; 46mm 
• Materials: Stainless Steel; Two-Tone Steel & Red Gold; 18k Red Gold 
• Functions: Time Only, Time & Date, Chronograph, Chrono Day-Date 
• Dial: Green; Blue; Silver; Black 
• Bezel: Unidirectional, Blue or Black Ceramic Insert w/ 60-Minute Scale 
• Crystal: Sapphire 
• Water Resistance: 100m; 200m 
• Movement: Breitling B01 (In-House Automatic); Breitling 10 (Automatic); Breitling 13 (Automatic); Breitling B20 (In-House Automatic) 
• Water Resistance: 100m; 200m 
• Bracelet: Metal Bracelet; Rubber Strap; NATO Strap; Leather Strap 

Breitling Avenger

The Breitling Avenger collection is a line of bold and rugged timepieces designed for adventurers and aviation enthusiasts. With their sturdy cases, highly legible dials, and features like chronograph functions, GMT complications, and water resistance of up to 300 meters (1,000 feet), Avenger watches are reliable tools for navigating the challenges of land, sea, and air.

Key Features:

• Case Size: 43mm; 45mm; 48mm
• Materials: Stainless Steel; DLC-Coated Titanium
• Functions: Time Only; Time-and-Date; Chronograph; GMT
• Dial: Green; Blue; White; Yellow; Black
• Bezel: Unidirectional, Stainless Steel or Titanium
• Crystal: Sapphire
• Water Resistance: 300m; 3000m
• Movement: Breitling 13 (Automatic); Breitling 17 (Automatic); Breitling B32 (Automatic)
• Strap/Bracelet: Metal Bracelet; Leather Strap

Breitling Avenger II Seawolf

The Breitling Avenger II Seawolf is a massive dive watch with a 45mm case and an incredible water resistance of 3,000 meters. It features a unidirectional bezel with rider tabs, a thick crown for easy operation, and a helium escape valve. The watch is powered by the Breitling B17 movement and is available in three colors: yellow, grey, and black.

Breitling Avenger GMT

The Breitling Avenger GMT is a bold yet functional timepiece with a 43mm or 45mm stainless steel case and a water resistance of 300 meters. It features a unidirectional rotating bezel with a 24-hour scale for tracking a second time zone, large luminescent hands and indices, and is powered by a reliable Breitling Caliber movement with a 42 to 70-hour power reserve.

Breitling Premier

The Breitling Premier collection is a line of elegant and sophisticated timepieces that pay homage to the brand's heritage of crafting refined chronographs in the 1940s. Combining classic design elements with modern watchmaking technology, the Premier watches feature clean dials, precise movements, and a range of complications, including chronographs, day-date displays, and moon phases, making them ideal for those who appreciate timeless style and functionality. 

Key Features:

• Case Size: 40mm; 42mm
• Materials: Stainless Steel; 18k Red Gold
• Functions: Time Only; Day-Date; Chronograph
• Dial: Green; Blue; Brown; Black; Anthracite; Silver
• Bezel: Fixed, Stainless Steel or Red Gold
• Crystal: Sapphire
• Water Resistance: 100m
• Movement: Breitling 01 (In-House Automatic); Breitling B13 (Automatic); Breitling 17 (Automatic); Breitling B23 (Automatic); Breitling B37 (Automatic); Breitling B45 (Automatic)
• Strap/Bracelet: Metal Bracelet; Leather Strap

Breitling Premier B01 Chronograph with Panda Dial

The Premier B01 Chronograph with a Panda Dial features a striking contrast between its black subdials and white main dial. Its integrated B01 chronograph movement ensures high precision and reliability. This timepiece perfectly marries functionality with a versatile aesthetic.

Breitling Chronomat

The Breitling Chronomat watch line is an iconic collection that has been a cornerstone of the brand since its introduction in the 1940s. Originally designed as a tool watch for scientists and engineers, the modern Chronomat features a robust construction, distinctive bezel with rider tabs, and a versatile design that makes it suitable for both professional and casual wear, while also offering a range of complications, including chronographs, GMTs, and calendar functions.

Key Features:

• Case Size: 32mm; 36mm; 42mm
• Materials: Stainless Steel; Two-Tone Steel & Red Gold; 18k Red Gold
• Functions: Time & Date, 12-Hour Chronograph
• Dial: Green; Blue; White; Black; Copper; Silver; Anthracite
• Bezel: Fixed or Unidirectional, Stainless Steel; Red Gold; Gem Set
• Crystal: Sapphire
• Water Resistance: 100m; 200m
• Movement: SuperQuartz™ Breitling 77; Breitling 10 (Automatic); Breitling 01 (In-House Automatic)
• Strap/Bracelet: Metal Bracelet; Leather Strap; Rubber Strap

Breitling Chronomat GMT

The Breitling Chronomat GMT combines the iconic Chronomat design with dual-time functionality. It features a robust stainless steel case, the signature rotating bezel with rider tabs, and a GMT hand for tracking a second time zone. The watch is powered by a Breitling Caliber movement with a 42 to 70-hour power reserve.

Breitling Bentley

The Breitling Bentley collection was born from the partnership between the Swiss luxury watchmaker and the iconic British automotive brand. These timepieces embody the spirit of luxury, performance, and precision that both brands are known for. The collection features unique design elements inspired by Bentley's rich automotive heritage, and powerful movements that mirror the performance of Bentley's engines. Although the partnership between Breitling and Bentley came to an end in 2021, the Breitling Bentley watches remain highly sought-after by collectors and enthusiasts alike, as a testament to the enduring legacy of this collaboration.

Breitling Bentley Supersports B55

The Breitling Bentley Supersports B55 combines luxury and performance. It features an advanced B55 movement, a titanium case, and a bold design inspired by Bentley's automotive aesthetics. The watch offers a digital-analog display and smartphone connectivity for enhanced functionality. 

Breitling Aviatior

The Breitling Aviator collection pays homage to the brand's rich aviation heritage, drawing inspiration from Breitling's iconic pilot watches from the 1930s and 1940s. These timepieces feature a distinctive vintage aesthetic, with design elements such as large, legible dials, oversized crown, and knurled bezels reminiscent of early aircraft instruments. Despite their retro appearance, the Aviator 8 watches are thoroughly modern, offering a range of complications like chronographs, day-date displays, and world time functions, as well as the option of in-house calibers for enhanced precision and performance.

Key Features:

• Case Size: 41mm; 43mm; 46mm 
• Materials: Stainless Steel; 18k Red Gold; Titanium 
• Functions: Time Only; Time & Date; Day-Date; Chronograph; World Time 
• Dial: Green; Blue; Silver; Black; Bronze; Anthracite 
• Bezel: Bidirectional, Stainless Steel or Red Gold 
• Crystal: Sapphire 
• Water Resistance: 30m; 100m 
• Movement: Breitling B01 (In-House Automatic); Breitling B09 (In-House Automatic); Breitling 13 (Automatic); Breitling 17 (Automatic); Breitling B20 (In-House Automatic); Breitling B35 (In-House Automatic); Breitling 45 (Automatic) 
• Strap/Bracelet: Metal Bracelet; NATO Strap; Leather Strap 

Breitling Professional

There are tool watches, and then there are watches that can genuinely save your life. Although the majority of the Breitling headlines of late have concentrated on their highly successful reworked classics, not everything the brand produces has called for a dip into the archives. Paradoxically, Breitling also stands at the forefront of some of the most advanced wearable tech out there, and the Professional Collection is where it all lives. The three-model, 10-piece family is entirely quartz-powered and contains everything from sports watches for the everyday athlete to indispensable emergency equipment that is designed for professional use. 

Key Features:

• Case Size: 43mm; 44mm; 51mm
• Materials: Breitlight; Titanium
• Functions: Chronograph; Professional Pilot & Personal Survival Functions
• Dial: Blue; Black
• Bezel: Unidirectional or Bidirectional, Breitlight or Titanium
• Crystal: Sapphire
• Water Resistance: 50m; 100m
• Movement: Breitling 76 (SuperQuartz™); Breitling 79 (SuperQuartz™); Breitling 82 (SuperQuartz™)
• Strap/Bracelet: Metal Bracelet; Rubber Strap 

Best Breitling Watches: Final Thoughts

Breitling offers a wide range of exceptional timepieces that cater to diverse tastes and needs, from the iconic Navitimer for pilots to the stylish Premier collection.

This buying guide has explored some of the best Breitling watches:

• Superocean: impressive water resistance and robust construction 
• Avenger: bold and rugged, designed for adventurers 
• Chronomat: versatile and iconic, a cornerstone of the brand 
• Bentley: luxurious and high-performance, born from a partnership 
• Navitimer: a true icon among pilot watches 
• Aviator 8: vintage-inspired, paying homage to aviation heritage 
• Professional: high-performance instruments for professionals 

When choosing a Breitling watch, consider desired features, budget, intended purpose, and whether you prefer new or pre-owned. Exploring the various collections and models will help you find the best Breitling watch.

Whether you need a reliable tool watch, a rugged adventurer's companion, or simply appreciate fine watchmaking, Breitling has a timepiece to suit your needs and exceed your expectations.