BACK TO BASICS : THE VERSATILE NAVITIMER GMT AND AUTOMATIC 41
Breitling played a key role in the emergence of commercial flight . Its onboard timekeepers became standard equipment , first in propeller planes and later in the jets produced by the world ’ s leading aircraft manufacturers . When the design of the Breitling Navitimer came out in 1952 , it was an instant hit with airline pilots in the then-nascent field of civil aviation .
The Navitimer featured a circular slide rule that allowed pilots to make critical calculations , such as rate of climb and fuel consumption . In those glory days of commercial air travel , the Navitimer was the original wrist-worn onboard computer and ultimately established Breitling as the “ Official supplier to world aviation ”.
As civil aviation expanded , so did the Navitimer ’ s fame , attracting not just pilots but also trendsetters such as Miles Davis and Serge Gainsbourg , becoming a beloved icon in both aviation and pop culture .
Breitling began redesigning the Navitimer line in 2022 , starting with the original chronograph . Today , it continues that update with two new pared-down executions : a GMT and a three-hand Automatic , each in a universally wearable 41-mm size .
These pieces distill the Navitimer ’ s iconic look , omitting the chronograph yet preserving a balanced dial composition . The central placement of the 24-hour scale on the GMT and the Automatic ’ s clean face ensure the intricate slide rule stands out while streamlining the overall aesthetics .
Further refining the collection , Breitling incorporated a notched bezel for a contemporary touch , and alternating polished and brushed finishes that add a dynamic play of light . Straps in alligator leather and bracelets with a seamless butterfly clasp offer comfort and convenience .
The palette includes black , blue , silver , ice blue , and green dials , encased in stainless steel or 18 k red gold , and a two-tone variant for the Automatic . The full-gold versions carry the Origins label , signifying responsibly mined gold in line with the Swiss Better Gold Association ’ s environmental and social standards .
This reinvention of the Navitimer , marrying the classic with the contemporary , is tailored for enthusiasts and the style-conscious alike , promising Breitling ’ s commitment to heritage and innovation in each timepiece .
14 THE ART OF APPRECIATION