BY JOVAN KRSTEVSKI
Today we have some great news for vintage Breitling fans. Continuing its streak of re-releasing popular models from its historic past, Breitling recently introduced a modern version of the Breitling Top Time, a popular Breitling chronograph dating back to the 1960s.
While the Top Time was served in many different variations during its existence, it was the Zorro dial version that made it a collector’s delight, and Breitling seems to have re-created the magic of the past with this modern re-issue. Presented in white the face of the watch retains its distinctive visual identity through the black Zorro inspired black highlights surrounding the twin register setup. The rest of the layout also remains quite true to the original with applied hour markings, small circular lume plots and a printed minutes/chronograph seconds track. One major difference though is the inclusion of a decimal scale instead of a tachymeter scale, which in my opinion goes well with the clean and balanced look of the dial. The dial also gets a nice pop of red that can be seen on the rectangular hour/minute hands, the chronograph hand and a small section on the 30-minute counter at 3.
Moving to the case, you have a stainless-steel structure that measures a modest 41mm in diameter and has a thickness of around 14.7mm. While not a thin watch, the angled lugs would ensure that the watch would sit comfortably on the wrist. The case seems to have a polished finish throughout and features a sapphire crystal in the front, along with a closed case back on the rear. Water-resistance is limited to just 30 meters which I feel is on the lower side for a sports watch.
Powering the new Breitling Top Time is the Breitling 23 caliber. This is an automatic chronograph movement that is based on the Valjoux 7753. It operates at a frequency of 4Hz and offers a power reserve of around 48 hours. The movement is also COSC certified which would ensure that the watch runs accurately within -4 to +6 seconds a day.
Breitling has hit yet another homerun with Top Time Limited Edition. Production would be limited to just 2000 pieces and the watch would be accompanied by a brown nubuck leather strap. It would retail for EUR 4,850 and would be available to purchase from Breitling’s website first, followed by boutiques later in the year.
Visit Breitling here.
