I really like the Breitling of aviation, the one of the big models, the one of the generous and solid leather! 
I found my nugget at a big dealer in the second-hand, a model of 2015, coming from the United Kingdom, you have to bring the watch from there but too bad! It is magnificent and it attracts me! 
So I try it on the capital, a treat. 
The details are crazy, the tip of the red second hand, the logo of the brand opposite the second hand, the details of the graduations, this particular noise of the chronos when you reset them to 0... winding a chrono manually... it's a real experience.

A classic never equaled

The first contact with this watch was the result of provocation: "I never had a crush on the steel bracelet watch", it didn't take less for the salesman at the watch shop to make me try the speedmaster moonwatch and this BB58. At first hesitant then in a corner of my mind without being able to try the experience again I returned to my salesman to try it again, surprise it was available right away. Oh dear! Easy! You don't know me well, unlike ordinary mortals I need time, for the watch to "make its way". I went back anyway a week later and finally put myself on the waiting list... what a pleasure this wait was... Only 4 months and I had this watch on my wrist, no longer able to take it off. The only watch that has this effect on me to this day!

THE watch

<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>

This is the one that started it all. Acquired in 1989, when I was 16, with the salary from my first summer job, it satisfied the desire to be older. At the time, I think we talked more about Breitling and Cartier than Rolex. I had the opportunity to buy this quartz model for 3,000.00 francs and since then, despite all the criticism I have heard about its reliability, it has only had two servicings and battery changes. Worn daily for 10 years, and still today when nostalgia arises, in the city as well as at the beach, winter as well as summer, in quiet as during my National Service in an Infantry Regiment, it has never let me down. It had the particularity of being sold new with different variations of bezel (graduated in one direction or the other, with the cardinal points in compass style, etc.). Obtained with a bracelet called "nautical shark" which did not last, I quickly abandoned the steel acquired at a high price at the time because it was much too heavy and uncomfortable. Today the bracelet, which I still have, must be worth more than the watch but yet it will be the one that remains when the end comes and I will have passed on the others.

The first

I am 30 years old, a milestone, a stage, a symbol of moving into a new decade. As usual, every important gift is related to a timepiece. For my 20th birthday, the Speedmaster seemed obvious to me as I had seen this watch on the wrists of my childhood heroes. For this one, the choice was more complex, because no model was unanimous in my mind, Cartier Santos, Reverso, Black Bay...
Months go by and still no internal consensus, at the turn of an evening, I notice on the wrist of a friend a watch that I have rarely had the opportunity to see in real life, a Navitimer. I had a rather negative idea of this watch that I saw overloaded, illegible and above all huge! What was my surprise to see that it is in fact a model in its vintage version I specify, a quite sublime watch. The proportions are good and easy to read, the 41 mm case does not really change the format of my speed and I like the leather strap knowing that I do not have one in my collection yet. In short, this meeting guides me in my search until I find an ideal model in Le Mans. This model from the 60s brings together everything I like, a story thanks to the heritage of the Navitimer but also by this LIP inscription on the dial testifying to a French-speaking partnership that is almost forgotten today. In addition, this model in very good condition has a patina to which I am not insensitive. Since it entered my collection, I have had trouble storing it, I no longer wear it. Its main strength and its ease of association with any type of clothing makes it very versatile
In short, dear reader, I would highly recommend this timepiece that I never leave home without.

An unexpected encounter

For a long time I hesitated to take the plunge, I already have chronos, more readable ...
But I came across this model with a magnificent patina "as I like them" of 41mm without crown, not too thick, tritium, original plexi not scratched, case in remarkable condition, paper box ... a 7750 very well known and "easy" to have serviced. I have a Breitling leather strap of correct quality but not very glamorous, a rubber not necessarily period but of Breitling origin and quality. And above all I equipped it with a strap custom-made by ABP in Aligator with very precise specifications.
This watch has a history beyond the history of this "aviator" model because it belonged to a pilot of the Canadian Air Force. A precision to which I am sensitive having the pleasure of wearing a watch that I like and which had a hectic life!

A face! And a story!

The spirit of the Navitimer in a dress watch!
Having long been amazed by the Breitling universe and more particularly the Navitimer, I have long been frustrated by the very imposing diameters that the brand offers. This 3-hand Navitimer was an obvious choice for me when its release was announced.
The “simplicity” of its dial, the superb finishes, the return of the beaded bezel and the finesse of the case make this watch the perfect in-between for those looking for Breitling’s DNA and an elegant timepiece.

Navitimer auto 41

This Navitimer has a crazy charm! This vintage gold and steel model was the model worn by Serge Gainsbourg who had replaced the leather strap with a steel bracelet at the time because of his sweating problems. Its more contained case with its 41mm is more easily wearable for small wrists than the recent 43mm models. The reverse panda dial, the old winged logo and this gold/steel combination make this Breitling a must have for any collector of watch icons.

Breitling Navitimer 81600

<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<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/ollech_&amp;_wajs/p-104"> Ollech &amp; Wajs P-104</a>, the<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<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<a href="https://preprod.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>

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