This Lot is to be Sold with No Reserve
1024
Breitling
Ref. 765 AVI
A fine and rare stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with luminous black dial and revolving bezel
- Estimate
- HK$50,000 - 100,000•€5,600 - 11,300$6,400 - 12,800
HK$106,250
Lot Details
- Manufacturer
- Breitling
- Year
- 1961
- Reference No
- 765 AVI
- Case No
- 941'266
- Material
- Stainless steel
- Calibre
- Manual, cal. 178, 17 jewels
- Bracelet/Strap
- Leather
- Clasp/Buckle
- Stainless steel pin buckle
- Dimensions
- 41mm Diameter
- Signed
- Case, dial and movement signed
Specialist
Full-Cataloguing
Catalogue Essay
According to the Archives of Breitling, the case of the present watch was manufactured in 1961.
Reference 765 AVI was developed in the early 1960s with a very specific goal: to become one of the official timepieces of the French aviation (thus the suffix AVI). The striking resemblance to Breguet’s Type XX is not coincidence but the result of this intended goal.
The 765 AVI follows an evolution before eventually being replaced by the 765CP (co-pilot). Early examples feature a metal bezel and a 2-subdials layout with an additional digital minute window for the chronograph, then we have the version here represented with a more classic three-counter layout. Later example are known to feature contrasting white subsidiary dials while maintaining the metal bezel. The CP version will instead introduce a bezel with black anodized aluminium insert.
Offered in very well preserved condition - and with its movement recently serviced - the present piece will be source of endless fascination for the collector of rare technical timepieces.
Reference 765 AVI was developed in the early 1960s with a very specific goal: to become one of the official timepieces of the French aviation (thus the suffix AVI). The striking resemblance to Breguet’s Type XX is not coincidence but the result of this intended goal.
The 765 AVI follows an evolution before eventually being replaced by the 765CP (co-pilot). Early examples feature a metal bezel and a 2-subdials layout with an additional digital minute window for the chronograph, then we have the version here represented with a more classic three-counter layout. Later example are known to feature contrasting white subsidiary dials while maintaining the metal bezel. The CP version will instead introduce a bezel with black anodized aluminium insert.
Offered in very well preserved condition - and with its movement recently serviced - the present piece will be source of endless fascination for the collector of rare technical timepieces.
Breitling
Swiss | 1884The firm started by Leon Breitling in 1884 is best known for its technical aviation and oceanic watches. Today, all models are outfitted with certified chronometer movements, used for accurate timing. Early aviation pioneers in specialized chronograph timepieces, Breitling introduced the circular slide rule to watches in the 1940s for use by pilots. The firm’s most iconic chronograph, the Navitimer, was introduced in 1954 and continues to be manufactured today. Another key model is the Duograph, a split-seconds chronograph that was Breitling's most prestigious wristwatch during the 1940s through '60s. Their watches are built on their reputation for precision and sturdiness.
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