In 2015, I had a big fall that immobilized me for six months and required five operations, leading to a major repair of my Navitimer Cosmonaute. It was a sign to retire it and repair a youthful mistake: having ignored the MoonWatch for so long, even though I have been passionate about astronautics since my adolescence. I experienced the Conquest of Space, all the great premieres without exception, without having this legendary chronograph on my wrist. Thanks to the FAM forum, I acquired a 2002 model, very classic (solid caseback and hesalite). And since then, it has been bliss. It is more discreet than my Navitimer, ultra-precise and exceptionally readable. I wear it almost constantly, alternating slightly with my other watches. I do not spare it any more than my Breitling: DIY, cutting, hiking without taking any special precautions (except water of course). If a watch that has passed all NASA tests cannot withstand the vibrations of brush cutters and other large tools, what is the point of acquiring one? For me, owning this chronograph (which has become a luxury item when it was not originally the case) is a way of trying to get a little closer to the level of those who wore it. I defend this idea: living with perfection (at least technical) should make us (a little) better in our lives.

To try to be at the level of those who wore it...

I only had big chronographs with black backgrounds (Breitling, Speedmaster) and when my watchmaker offered me this little Doxa equipped with a Valjoux 23 movement, I immediately fell in love. White background, very flat, small in size, it gives the dressy side of a city watch while remaining a faithful and precise chronograph. I had it serviced and changed the bezel which was damaged and since then, it shows a drift of only a few seconds per day. Collectors change watches almost every day, while I wear them for long periods (two or three weeks in a row). I really love this little Doxa, very discreet and little known but which a few connoisseurs recognize. When I acquired it, my watchmaker also offered me a Rolex Datejust. Years later, I do not regret my choice, quite the contrary. I prefer a little originality while keeping a chronograph function.

A great little chronograph, precise and distinguished

Bought for my 25th birthday (a good 45 years ago…), I wore it every day in all places and circumstances for more than 35 years at a time when big chronographs were rare. It was the first to go into space with Scott Carpenter and it was used by pilots, hence my choice. I love its slide rule and its 24-hour dial. Everything is perfectly readable when you know how to use it. Very precise, robust and of unparalleled originality. I damaged it several times in falls and the Breitling after-sales service worked wonders, even remanufacturing the automatic winding weight or repainting the dial for me (while still waiting a year). For a few years now, it has been retired and I wear it in episodes with ever-renewed pleasure.

The chrono of almost my entire life…

<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>

For my collection, I was looking for an aviation watch. I quickly chose an iconic model: the Navitimer!

I first studied all the models for a long time because there are so many. It was then difficult to make a choice. The new models are very successful but I preferred to find a rare gem on the second-hand market, a unique version of this iconic watch.

I narrowed my research on the Cosmonaute model for several reasons. First because it is a model with a fascinating history. It is the first Swiss chronograph to travel into space thanks to Scott Carpenter. And it was he himself who asked Breitling for a 24-hour dial in order to distinguish day from night in the darkness of space. I like this specificity because it makes it original and readable only to insiders. On the other hand, it makes the indexes tighter. So yes, it’s loaded, but I love it! It’s impossible to get bored looking at it! And among the Cosmonaut models, this reference has 2 more things. First, the date window that was not present on the original model and second, the chronograph is equipped with a flyback function.

The dial is a “reverse panda”, black background and white subdials, with red accents on both the tip of the second hand and on the two scales of the slide rule. At noon we find the Breitling “Wings and Anchor” logo as well as the words “Chronometer” and “Automatic” which attest that the movement is COSC certified. The latter is a Breitling Cal. 22 movement on an ETA 2892 base modified with a Dubois Depraz flyback module. The hands are of the tapered baton type with a luminescent coating and the chronograph hand has a red arrowhead and a counterweight in the shape of the Breitling “B with anchor” logo. On the case back, we find the Breitling “Wings and Anchor” logo as well as a Celsius-Farenheit conversion scale, a small detail that I find very interesting. Finally, this model is equipped with a 7-link pilot bracelet emblematic of the brand. I find it very pleasant to wear because it fits the wrist perfectly but it is a pain to adjust it yourself. Another negative point, the clasp that I find difficult to open and not practical to use. 

The specificity of the Navitimer is of course its slide rule and when you know how to use it, it is a real pleasure to use it. In addition to multiplications and divisions, it allows you to perform rules of 3, calculate percentages, convert Miles to Kilometers or Swiss Francs to US Dollars. On this model, there is even a second scale for converting minutes to hours, which is quite practical. 

As for the negative, I am quite disappointed by the quality of the movement. I must admit that the flyback function does not always work, even when it is well wound and even after the service carried out at Breitling. The after-sales service of the brand leaves something to be desired. I also find that the chronograph lacks reaction speed. This is probably due to this modified movement. 

Finally, my opinion on the Breitling brand: 
It is a brand that makes me dream. It is associated with the world of aviation, adventure and exploits, in particular the round-the-world balloon trip. Georges Kern has been able to revitalize this heritage and give it a retro-chic-casual look that appeals to young people. 

Specs:
24-hour dial, Bidirectional bezel with slide rule, Chronograph with flyback function, small seconds at 3 o'clock, date at 4:30.

Diameter: 41.5mm
Thickness: 14.4mm
Power reserve: 42 hours
Year: 2007-2011
Ref: A22322
Depth: 30 m
Steel case
Sapphire crystal
Breitling Cal. 22 automatic movement (ETA 2892 base and Dubois Depraz flyback module) COSC certified


Breitling Navitimer Cosmonaute Flyback

<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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The chrono of almost my entire life…

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