It makes sense that in difficult situations we seek solace in the simpler times of the past. And perhaps as part of that sentiment, retro watch designs are all the rage right now, although vintage inspired watches have been trending for a number of years now. On the heels of Audemars Piguet’s announcement that they are re-issuing a watch from the 1940s, Breitling has unveiled its latest timepiece, a revival of a chronograph from the 1960s called the Top Time.
Breitling Top Time Limited Edition
Described as “ultramodern” when it was first issued during the 1960s, the Breitling Top Time was aimed at “young an active professionals” who wanted a timepiece that matched technical excellence with elegant looks, principles that obviously still apply today. The brand also says it was one of the first designs to appeal to both men and women.
While not the most valuable among vintage Breitling watches, original Top Time examples are prized by collectors and some of that aura may rub off on this new re-issue. While not widely associated with James Bond, a Top Time made a brief appearance in the 1965 James Bond film Thunderball, modified by Q Branch to include a geiger counter.
The new Breitling Top Time, sized at 41mm, carries over the so-called ‘Zorro’ dial of the original, which gets its name thanks to its design that resembles the famous character’s eye mask. The black and white color scheme is nicely set off by red hour and minute hands and a red accent on the 30 minute counter at 3 o’clock. The new watch runs on the Breitling Caliber 23 chronograph movement with a power reserve of approximately 48 hours, and it comes presented on a brown nubuck leather strap.
The new Breitling Top Time will be limited to 2000 pieces, and the caseback of each example is engraved with the text ONE OF 2000. “Breitling aficionados have always loved the Top Time’s dial,” notes Breitling CEO Georges Kern. “When it was released more than 50 years ago, it was a watch that appealed to a younger audience committed to enjoying the freedom and the spirit of the 1960s, and, amazingly, after all this time, it continues to stand out. The Top Time is an important but often-overlooked part of our heritage, and we know it’s going to resonate with men and women who love this blend of history, design, and great performance.”
Interestingly, the new Breitling Top Time Limited Edition will be the brand’s first watch offered with a blockchain-based digital passport. This technology can confirm the authenticity and ownership of the watch with a single click and allows for the transfer of ownership with a blockchain transaction.
