This is my first beautiful watch, from the time when Breitling was still "rated". A watch that I particularly like compared to the others. Light, classy and still rare in my opinion because I don't see it often. Despite its age it still remains classic and know that it is very very robust and reliable.

My first watch drug

Here is my submariner 16610 from 1991, comfortable, discreet and robust. I wanted the model from those years to obtain a patina over the years and because they are less bling bling. My bezel is starting to turn blue or dark gray and despite these years it is precise and beautiful as the first day. Despite other watches that I have (gmt, Omega, Breitling) this one is my favorite!

Last sub with a soul

<p dir="ltr">The <strong>Breitling</strong> brand, an emblematic figure in Swiss watchmaking, became known for her pioneering role in the field of chronographs. Founded in <strong>1884</strong> by L&eacute;on Breitling, the brand Breitling quickly gained a reputation for its precision instruments, designed specifically for aviators and motorsports enthusiasts.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">History of the Breitling brand</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Since 1950, the history of Breitling is dotted with successes and innovations. In 1952, the brand launched the Navitimer collection, equipped with a slide rule allowing pilots to calculate essential data in flight. This model quickly became the official watch of AOPA (Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association), a prestigious recognition in aviation.</p>
<p dir="ltr">In 1969, Breitling participated in the development of the first automatic chronograph movement, the famous Caliber 11, marking a milestone in watchmaking. In the 1980s, under the leadership of Ernest Schneider, Breitling strengthened its commitment to aviation and adventure sports, launching models such as the Chronomat, which redefined the modern chronograph.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The 2000s saw the creation of the Breitling Caliber 01 manufactured movement, another milestone in the brand's history. The brand's desire to guarantee the highest quality has been affirmed by obtaining COSC certification for its movements, a rare distinction in the industry.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">What are the emblematic models of the Breitling brand?</h2>
<h3 dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/breitling/navitimer">Breitling Navitimer</a></h3>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>A true icon in the world of aviation</strong>, the Breitling Navitimer was launched in 1952. Its steel case of at least 40 mm going up to 46 mm, with a water resistance of 30 meters, is equipped with a leather or steel strap. Powered by the Breitling Caliber 01, it features a distinctive dial with chronograph subdials and a rotating slide rule for flight calculations. This model has been adopted by pilots around the world and was even worn by astronaut Scott Carpenter during his space mission. The Breitling Navitimer has been worn by many personalities, particularly French ones such as Serge Gainsbourg, who like to wear it on a metal racing bracelet.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The Breitling Navitimer is one of the brand's flagship models, driven by the reference<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/breitling/navitimer_b01_chronograph"> Breitling Navitimer B01 Chronograph</a>.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/breitling/superocean">Breitling Superocean</a></h3>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Designed for divers and water sports enthusiasts</strong>, the Breitling Superocean is recognized for its robustness and performance. Its 42mm to 46mm steel case, boasting impressive water resistance up to 200 ATM, comes with a rubber or steel strap. The Breitling Caliber 17 automatic movement powers this model, with a clear and luminous dial. Complications include date and a power reserve indicator for some variants.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/breitling/chronomat">Breitling Chronomat</a></h3>
<p dir="ltr">The Breitling Chronomat is one of <strong>Breitling's most versatile sports watches.</strong> The 42mm to 44mm steel case, with 20 ATM water resistance, is complemented by a metal or rubber strap. The Breitling Caliber 01 powers this watch, which features chronograph subdials and a date. The model is known for its contrasting dials and unidirectional bezels, making it a popular choice among pilots and water sports enthusiasts.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Breitling Premier</h3>
<p dir="ltr">The Breitling Premier is Breitling's elegant and refined line, aimed at those looking for a watch that goes well with formal outfits. The 40mm to 42mm steel case, with 100m water resistance, comes with a leather or metal strap. The movement can vary between the Breitling Caliber 01 and other automatic movements, with sleek dials displaying the chronograph and date functions. The likes of James Dean have been associated with this classic watch.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/breitling/avenger">Breitling Avenger</a></h3>
<p dir="ltr">Renowned for its robustness and functionality, the series Breitling Avenger is intended for demanding professionals. The 43mm to 48mm steel case, with water resistance up to 300 ATM, is coupled with a rubber or metal strap. Different Breitling movements power this watch, which includes chronograph functions, date functions, and even a unidirectional rotating bezel for some variants. The Avenger series is popular with military and aviation professionals for its reliability and bold design.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Breitling Classic AVI</h3>
<p dir="ltr">A piece that reflects the brand's aeronautical heritage, the Breitling Classic AVI (Aviation) is a tribute to the brand's pilot watches from the 1950s and 1960s. The case of this timepiece is generally made of stainless steel, measuring between 40 and 43 mm, and offers a water resistance of 30 meters to 100 m, depending on the model. The strap can vary between leather and metal, giving the watch a sturdy yet elegant look. Powered by various high-precision mechanical movements such as the Breitling Caliber 13 or 23, the Classic AVI features an easy-to-read dial with chronograph dials and date. Its complications often include a tachometer, useful for calculating speeds. The Classic AVI is associated with the golden age of aviation and the spirit of adventure of that era.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The Breitling Classic AVI exemplifies the brand's passion for aviation and its commitment to maintaining high standards of quality and functionality. It evokes a time when flying was synonymous with glamor and exploration, and it continues to capture the imagination of pilots and aviation enthusiasts to this day. It&rsquo;s a watch that speaks as much to history as it does to watchmaking expertise, and it continues to be an iconic piece in the Breitling collection.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/breitling/top_time_triumph">Breitling Top Time</a></h3>
<p dir="ltr">The Breitling Top Time, first released in the 1960s and recently re-released, is <strong>a nod to the vintage style and rebellious spirit of that era</strong>. It features a 41mm steel case, 30m water resistance, a leather or Milanese mesh strap, a Breitling Caliber 23 chronograph movement, a distinctive &ldquo;Zorro&rdquo; shaped dial or with contrasting subdials , and a date complication. This watch was associated with pop culture of the time, including actor Sean Connery as James Bond. The Top Time gained a following among the young professionals of the era and continues to attract those who appreciate its retro aesthetic and modern functionality.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The reintroduction of the Top Time shows that Breitling respects its heritage while remaining at the forefront of innovation. It is a piece that captures the essence of its era while delivering the precision and quality that Breitling is famous for. Its timeless design makes it appealing to collectors and vintage watch enthusiasts, as well as those looking to add a touch of classic elegance to their modern timepiece.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/breitling/endurance_pro">Breitling Endurance Pro</a></h3>
<p dir="ltr">Specially designed for athletes and extreme sports enthusiasts, the Endurance Pro features an innovative 44mm Breitlight&reg; case, offering exceptional lightness and strength. It features 10 ATM water resistance, a colored rubber strap, a Breitling Caliber 82 SuperQuartz&trade; movement, a dynamic dial with chronograph counters, and a tachymeter bezel complication for measuring speed. This watch, combining performance and style, is a perfect choice for those who lead an active lifestyle and want a watch that can keep up with them. Professional athletes such as triathlete Chris McCormack have made this watch their choice for competition, highlighting its exceptional qualities.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The addition of the Endurance Pro to Breitling's lineup demonstrates the brand's continued commitment to creating watches that meet the needs of professionals and adventure enthusiasts. With its unique combination of features and innovative materials, it stands out as a compelling choice for those looking to push the boundaries.</p>
<p dir="ltr">These different models represent the diversity and excellence of Breitling in the watchmaking landscape. Each one is a testament to the precision engineering and innovation that characterizes this historic brand.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">How much does a Breitling watch cost?</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Prices of new Breitling watches change every year, but <strong>most Breitling models cost between $ 5,000 and $ 10,000</strong>. The brand's entry level begins with a<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/breitling/endurance_pro"> Breitling Endurance Pro</a> proposed to $ 3,350, while a Breitling Super Chronomat B01 in red gold costs $ 42,500. The second-hand market is also an opportunity to look at to obtain a Breitling at more attractive prices.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Breitling: The benchmark brand for pilots&rsquo; watches</h2>
<p dir="ltr">Breitling has solidified its place in the watchmaking landscape through its constant innovations and commitment to precision. Known for its strong ties to aviation, the brand has also extended its expertise to dive watches and lifestyle pieces. Breitling's positioning as a champion of technology and bold design makes it attractive to adventure seekers, professionals and style connoisseurs. To find out more about these exceptional watches, the brand's website is a useful resource of information.&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr">The brand Breitling is owned by the CVC Capital Partners fund and produces around 150,000 watches per year, all models combined. The brand that recently bought<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/universal_geneve"> Universal Geneve</a> in 2023, is also part of the <a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/top/the_best_swiss_watch_brands">Ranking of the most popular Swiss watch brands</a>.</p>
<p dir="ltr">To choose the Breitling that suits you best, <strong>Dialicious owners&rsquo; reviews</strong> are a valuable resource for learning<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/breitling/why_customers_choose_breitling"> why customers choose Breitling</a>.&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr">(Updated February 2024)</p>
<p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>

A beautiful piece from the 90s, this Breitling Chronomat special series with 18k gold bezel.
A contained size of 40mm, and above all a typical look of the 90s with this design that makes its charm.
This series varies from the classic models of the time by its 18k gold bezel (not plating) which matches the sub-dials.

The whole is harmonious, and even if for some it could be too much, it goes very well with a dressy outfit.
It is a watch that I love for its offbeat and assumed 90s side, almost a little flashy, but which I find coherent.
For the record, these models were quite popular with businessmen, and we saw some models of this type on the wrist of Bernard Tapie.

This remains a very pleasant vintage model, which I recommend both for its look and its ease of maintenance since it is equipped with an ETA 7750

Breitling Chronomat 18k gold bezel - vintage 90s

A chronograph fan, I acquired my Breitling Chronomat in 1990 for the birth of my daughter. At the time, little known to the general public, it aroused the envy of those around me. I wear it in almost every situation and it has traveled a lot with me. Discreet and sporty, I have even gone diving with it!

Charming

This classic from the Granges manufacture is a chic sport that stands out from other chronomats, particularly thanks to its very contrasting dial and sub-dials (grey/blue/gold). The diameter of 39 and its oscillating weight that you can feel turning with the slightest movement of the wrist make it a pleasant timepiece to wear. Unfortunately, it no longer has its original roller bracelet, it has been mounted on a Breitling Diver Pro rubber strap with a folding clasp that rejuvenates this watch from the 2000s. A small downside for the crown which is not easy to handle. A chronograph that is sometimes shunned and underrated, it nevertheless gives me a lot of pleasure to wear and admire.

Chronograph full of character, typical 80s/90s

Breitling Chronomat ref: B13050.1 (produced in the mid-90s)

Automatic chronograph equipped with the Valjoux 7750 caliber. My model has the particularity of having the 4 riders as well as the logo applied in 18K gold.

I fell for its silver dial which contrasts magnificently with the gold parts. The guilloché on half of the surface gives it a real elegance without overloading the watch.

The 3 circled sub-counters are adorned with very fine micro-grooves. The unbalance of the chrono hand proudly displaying the brand logo contributes to the distinguished charm of the beauty.

In short, it seduced me from the first glance....

Dressed with its alligator strap, it is also very pleasant to wear with its contained diameter of 39mm.

Two small remarks concerning the crown that I do not find very grippable as well as the screws and riders that can get caught in clothes.

The Chronomat is an icon of the brand in the same way as the Navitimer and this is explained by its immediately identifiable bezel but also its timeless charm and of course an irreproachable quality of finish.

No need for wings to fly!

Nothing can match the sentimental value of a watch inherited from one's father.

This watch is the one that made me dream when I saw it on my father's arm. The one that led me to love watchmaking. I was 14 years old then.

I wear it on leather or on a Breitling roller bracelet.

The valjoux 7750 caliber has been running perfectly for 35 years.

Some will find it too noisy. For me it is sweet music.

Breitling Chronomat. 1991. Portée par Belmondo au cinéma. 

This superb Breitling Chronomat, reference 81950, was given to me for my birthday. A dream for me to own a model of this brand. Powered by a Valjoux 7750, decorated, on the case back, by a superb Aermacchi MB-339A, this Breitling "Aermacchi" makes me a happy man. Produced between 1984 and 1990, this model marks the rebirth of the Chronomat, after difficult years for the brand. The watch is easy to wear and above all, turns out to be a real chameleon! Depending on the bracelet, it can be very sporty or very chic. Unfortunately, I do not have the original roller bracelets, but, in any case, it would probably be too small for my wrist. A watch of the heart, historical, full of history and which, like the Navitimer, is very linked to the world of aviation, the Aermacchi MB-339A, being the aircraft in service with the Frecce Tricolori, the aerobatic squadron of our Italian friends. In short, a very interesting vintage piece and which fills me every time I wear it! Finally, and I understand that one may not like it, I really appreciate the movement of the 7750 in this watch. Let me explain: you feel the mass move, the watch lives on the wrist and takes it with it. This may not please everyone, but as far as I'm concerned, it's great!

The Breitling "Aermacchi"

The consensus often heard about Breitlings from the pre-Georges Kern period is big bling bling watches, thick and especially with completely polished cases that are completely out of date and worn by middle-aged guys, pot-bellied in vests and with a very massive gold chain. 
The Breitling Blackbird A13353 is a bit the opposite of all that. It is therefore a special series, not limited in time, which was sold alongside the classic Chronomats. Its main specificity is that it is one of the rare Chronomats to have a case and the iconic and comfortable pilot bracelet that is totally brushed! This specificity is in honor of its namesake, the Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird, an American stealth aircraft with which this stealth side is shared. 
This is one of the last series based on the case of the Chronomats of the 80s that simply saved Breitling from the Quartz crisis under the impetus of Ernest Schneider just before the arrival of the Chronomat Evolution which are 44 mm, more than 16 mm high and 52 mm Lug to Lug. The classic Chronomat and thus the Blackbird included measure 39.8 mm wide, 14.8 mm high, and 46.5 Lug to Lug. Thus quite wearable even on a wrist of less than 17 mm and in line with the measurements currently expected by a vocal majority on a sports chrono based on the Valoux 7750. The Breitling B13 is indeed a top grade cosc in this A13353 version based on this reliable tractor and repairable by any watchmaker worthy of the name. The dial is very sober and readable with its black background, writings, sub-dial and hands in white. In addition to the diving bezel, the chrono has a tachymeter scale and a base 100 in the dial. A solid multifunction tool watch with 100m of water resistance with an incomparable presence and allure, making it for me the chronomat the second icon of Breitling after the Navitimer.

For information, there were three variations of the Blackbird between 1995 and 2004. The A13350, classic Chronomat case non-cosc and tritium. The A13050 cosc and still tritium. And finally mine A13353 which introduces the Luminova and especially an updated case close to the Windrider series, with a reworked bezel and more prominent crown protectors.

It still keeps the potbellied watch side, the short and rounded horns which for me date the manufacture of this watch the most. Which is not the most ergonomic compared to a modern watch. It notably keeps the little easter egg of this watch which is that the side of the watch on the pusher side looks like a three-engine plane. Funny detail coming from the 80's chronomat which were created in cooperation with the Italian patrol of the frecce tricolori, Detail lost by the chronomat evolution with a much more classic profile.



Breitling goes against the grain of the 2000s

<p>La marque <strong>Ollech &amp; Wajs</strong> a &eacute;t&eacute; cr&eacute;&eacute;e en <strong>1956</strong> par Joseph Ollech et Albert Wajs &agrave; Zurich en Suisse. Albert &eacute;tait charg&eacute; de la conception, de l&rsquo;ing&eacute;nierie et de la fabrication des montres, tandis que Joseph s&rsquo;occupait du marketing et de la vente au d&eacute;tail. Avant de cr&eacute;er leur propre montres sous la marque Ollech &amp; Wajs, ils ont commenc&eacute; leur activit&eacute; en 1954 en fabriquant des bracelets en acier pour d&rsquo;autres marques.</p>
<p>La marque est connue pour avoir distribu&eacute; des montres &agrave; des unit&eacute;s de l&rsquo;arm&eacute;e am&eacute;ricaine pendant la guerre du Vietnam et pour avoir gagn&eacute; sa renomm&eacute;e aupr&egrave;s des plongeurs et pilotes du monde entier.</p>
<p>Apr&egrave;s 12 ans de n&eacute;gociation et apr&egrave;s avoir &eacute;t&eacute; son distributeur pour le march&eacute; fran&ccedil;ais, en 2017, Charles Le Menestrel, un passionn&eacute; d&rsquo;horlogerie, rach&egrave;te la marque. La gamme actuelle comprend des mod&egrave;les comme la Ollech &amp; Wajs P-101 et la <a title="Page Ollech &amp; Wajs P-104" href="https://www.dialicious.com/ollech_&amp;_wajs/p-104">Ollech &amp; Wajs P-104</a>, la <a title="Page Ollech &amp; Wajs C-1000" href="https://www.dialicious.com/ollech_&amp;_wajs/c-1000">Ollech &amp; Wajs C-1000</a>, la <a title="Page Ollech &amp; Wajs Ocean Graph" href="https://www.dialicious.com/ollech_&amp;_wajs/ocean_graph">Ollech &amp; Wajs Ocean Graph</a> et la Ollech &amp; Wajs Navichron.</p>
<h2>Combien co&ucirc;te une montre Ollech &amp; Wajs ?</h2>
<p>Les prix des montres Ollech &amp; Wajs &eacute;voluent et diff&egrave;rent selon les mod&egrave;les. <strong>La plupart co&ucirc;tent entre CHF 1,500 et CHF 2,000 selon les mod&egrave;les et les finitions</strong>. Comptez <strong>CHF 1,456</strong> pour une Ollech &amp; Wajs 350CI et pr&egrave;s de <strong>CHF 2,300</strong> pour une Ollech &amp; Wajs Navichron Chronographe. Le march&eacute; de l'occasion est &eacute;galement une opportunit&eacute; &agrave; regarder pour acheter une Ollech &amp; Wajs moins ch&egrave;re. Les mod&egrave;les Vintage notamment les Ollech &amp; Wajs Navichron et&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/ollech_&amp;_wajs/astrochron">Ollech &amp; Wajs Astrochron</a>, sont tr&egrave;s pris&eacute;es des collectionneurs et ils convient de bien se renseigner sur le vendeur avant de franchir le pas de l'acquisition d'une vintage.</p>
<p><strong>Ollech &amp; Wajs</strong> est une marque de montres ind&eacute;pendante et produit plusieurs centaines de montres par an, tous mod&egrave;les confondus. Pour choisir une Ollech &amp; Wajs qui vous correspond le mieux,&nbsp;<strong>les avis clients Dialicious</strong> sont une pr&eacute;cieuse ressource pour &eacute;valuer chacun des diff&eacute;rents mod&egrave;les &agrave; travers l'exp&eacute;rience r&eacute;elle des clients.</p>
<p class="p1"><span class="s1">Consultez le <a href="https://www.dialicious.com/top/les_meilleures_marques_de_montres_suisses"><span class="s2">Classement des meilleures marques de montres suisses</span></a> dont Ollech &amp; Wajs fait partie.</span></p>
<p class="p1">(Mise &agrave; jour Octobre 2024)</p>

<p dir="ltr">The brand <strong>Ollech &amp; Wajs</strong> was created in <strong>1956</strong> by Joseph Ollech and Albert Wajs in Zurich, Switzerland. Albert was responsible for the design, engineering and manufacturing of the watches, while Joseph handled marketing and retail sales. Before creating their own watches under the brand Ollech &amp; Wajs, they started their business in 1954 making steel bracelets for other brands.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The brand is known for distributing watches to units of the American army during the Vietnam War and for having earned its reputation among divers and pilots around the world.</p>
<p dir="ltr">After 12 years of negotiations and after having been its distributor for the French market, in 2017, Charles Le Menestrel, a watchmaking enthusiast, bought the brand. The current range includes models like the Ollech &amp; Wajs P-101 and the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/ollech_&amp;_wajs/p-104">Ollech &amp; Wajs P-104</a>, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/ollech_&amp;_wajs/c-1000">Ollech &amp; Wajs C-1000</a>, the<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/ollech_&amp;_wajs/ocean_graph"> Ollech &amp; Wajs Ocean Graph</a> and the Ollech &amp; Wajs Navichron.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">How much does an Ollech &amp; Wajs watch cost?</h2>
<p dir="ltr">The prices of Ollech &amp; Wajs watches change and differ depending on the model. <strong>Most cost between CHF 1,500 and CHF 2,000 depending on the models and finishes</strong>. Expect to pay <strong>CHF </strong><strong>1,456</strong> for an Ollech &amp; Wajs 350CI and close to <strong>CHF </strong><strong>2,300</strong> for an Ollech &amp; Wajs Navichron Chronograph. The second-hand market is also an opportunity to look at to buy a cheaper Ollech &amp; Wajs. Vintage models including the Ollech &amp; Wajs Navichron and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/ollech_&amp;_wajs/astrochron">Ollech &amp; Wajs Astrochron</a>, are very popular with collectors and they should find out about the seller before taking the step of purchasing a vintage one.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Ollech &amp; Wajs is an independent watch brand and produces several hundred watches per year, all models combined. To choose an Ollech &amp; Wajs that best suits you, <strong>Dialicious owners' reviews</strong> are a valuable resource for evaluating each of the different models through real owner experience.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Consult the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/top/the_best_swiss_watch_brands">Ranking of the best Swiss watch brands</a> of which Ollech &amp; Wajs is part.</p>
<p dir="ltr">(Updated October 2024)</p>

Breitling Chronomat Owner Review : Elegant, chic and classic

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