THE FIRST SWISS WRISTWATCH IN SPACE , SCOTT CARPENTER ' S ORIGINAL BREITLING NAVITIMER COSMONAUTE WORN DURING HIS MA 7 MISSION IN 1962
GROUNDED ELEGANCE : THE SELF-WINDING COSMONAUTE B12
In 1962 , Mercury Seven astronaut Scott Carpenter approached Breitling with a unique request : to modify the Navitimer ’ s design for space exploration . Admiring its computational prowess , Carpenter asked for a 24-hour dial to distinguish day from night in orbit . Breitling met the challenge , and the customized Navitimer , later dubbed the Cosmonaute , accompanied Carpenter on his May 24 , 1962 , mission to become the first Swiss wristwatch in space .
To mark Breitling ’ s 140th anniversary ,
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THE ART OF APPRECIATION
it is releasing a limited edition of the 24- hour timepiece . This time , however , the main modification isn ’ t for zero-g but for everyday life : a self-winding chronograph movement , the Breitling manufacture caliber B12 .
The new release is limited to 250 pieces and only available through Breitling ’ s online and in-store boutiques . It features an 18 k red-gold case , beautifully complemented by its deep green dial , golden numerals , and black alligator leather strap .
Flip the watch to see the open caseback view of the contrasting oscillating weight capping the B12 movement . The manufacture caliber provides approximately 70 hours of power and comes with a 5-year warranty . A caseback engraving states the “ One of 250 ” limitation and reveals the watch ’ s incredible story : “ First Swiss Wristwatch in Space / Navitimer Cosmonaute May 24,1962 .”
Inspired by astronauts , adapted for life on Earth , the new Cosmonaute limited edition merges storied heritage with modern ease of wear .
SCOTT CARPENTER ' S AURORA 7 MERCURY ATLAS ROCKET LIFTS OFF ON MAY 24 , 1962 . ( PHOTO BY HUM IMAGES - UNIVERSAL IM- AGES GROUP VIA GETTY IMAGES )