BY JOVAN KRSTEVSKI
Back in 1953, the Navitimer started life as a tool to aid pilots and has since then gone ahead to become one of the most sought-after aviation-inspired timepieces out there. In 2019 Breitling came up with a close to original modern re-issue of the 1959 Navitimer reference 806 and now the brand has introduced a new variation of this watch featuring a case made of platinum and a few other noteworthy changes.
Measuring 41mm wide and having a thickness of around 12.86mm, the case of this new watch is dimensionally the same as its steel sibling but has been crafted from Platinum. The use of precious metal brings a few key differences. First and foremost, it gives the watch a reassuring heft (this one weighs in at 120 grams without the strap) and second, it adds an extra dose of luxury. Staying true to its vintage roots, sitting on the top of the case is a thin bead of rice bezel and protecting the face of the watch is a plexiglass crystal. The case back has been kept closed and water resistance is limited to 30 meters which I feel is on the lower side for a sporty piece like this.
The dial on this Platinum limited edition has been presented in a deep shade of blue. It is well complemented by bold Arabic numerals that have been coated with white superluminova which makes them pop against the dark background. Things remain quite familiar on the layout front with a staggering amount of information on offer. There is a slide rule, various fixed scales and 3 registers for measuring chronograph minutes, hours and running seconds. Time can be read using the nicely proportioned syringe style hands, that have also been filled with luminous paint for low light visibility. Thankfully Breitling has stayed away from inserting a date on the dial keeping the balance intact.
Powering this watch is Breitling’s in-house manually wound B-09 caliber. This movement is based on the B-01 caliber and is devoid of a rotor, that helps keep the thickness of the watch in check. It operates at a frequency of 4 Hz, is COSC certified and offers a healthy power reserve of around 70 hours when fully wound.
The Navitimer 1959 Re-Edition Platinum is a handsome looking watch that offers a great blend of retro looks and exclusivity. The watch is limited to just 59 pieces and comes attached to a blue alligator strap. The retail price has been set at USD 39,900.
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