No Reserve
8067
Breitling
Ref. 806
Navitimer “AOPA”
A rare stainless steel pilot’s chronograph wristwatch with beaded slide rule bezel
Estimate
HK$38,000 - 78,000•︎
€4,200 - 8,600
$4,900 - 10,000
Lot Details
Manufacturer
Breitling
Year
1960
Reference No
806
Case No
825’403
Model Name
Navitimer “AOPA”
Material
Stainless steel
Calibre
Manual, cal. 178, 17 jewels
Bracelet/Strap
Leather
Clasp/Buckle
Stainless steel unsigned pin buckle
Dimensions
40mm diameter
Signed
Case, dial and movement signed
Specialist
Full-Cataloguing
Catalogue Essay
- In 1952, the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) approached Breitling and requested for a chronograph wristwatch for its members that was capable of aviation needs and calculations. By adapting the original logarithmic slide rule of the Chronomat from the 1940s and integrating it to the rotating bezel, Breitling released the Navitimer, a combination of “navigation” and “timer”, signifying the nature of the watch.
- The watch is an aviator’s perfect tool watch. It is called a ‘computer watch’ because, in the age without miniature machines to do so, the watch is able to combine multiple functions into one surface, including the calculation of ground speed, miles per minute, gasoline consumption, rate and distance of descent, nautical and statute mile conversion.
- The original Navitimer has the AOPA signature in the winged logo, which was only distributed to the AOPA members. In 1955, Breitling made a public release of the watch and referenced it 806, making it the first Navitimer reference with the AOPA logo for the American market. The current watch, confirmed by Breitling via its serial number, was from a batch of Reference 806 manufactured in June 1960. The configuration indicates the watch is a Mark 2.2 Navitimer. It has the Wakmann Watch Co. “WOG” import stamp on the balance cork, which shows that it was imported by the official authorized agent in the United States of America.
- As a tool watch designated for aviators, most examples are heavily used, but this Navitimer retains its unpolished state with sharp edges and deep bevels. The engravings are also clearly visible. As an early Navitimer reference, it is a rare opportunity for pilot’s watch lovers to possess such an amazing, historic and well-preserved specimen of the manufacturer.
- The watch is an aviator’s perfect tool watch. It is called a ‘computer watch’ because, in the age without miniature machines to do so, the watch is able to combine multiple functions into one surface, including the calculation of ground speed, miles per minute, gasoline consumption, rate and distance of descent, nautical and statute mile conversion.
- The original Navitimer has the AOPA signature in the winged logo, which was only distributed to the AOPA members. In 1955, Breitling made a public release of the watch and referenced it 806, making it the first Navitimer reference with the AOPA logo for the American market. The current watch, confirmed by Breitling via its serial number, was from a batch of Reference 806 manufactured in June 1960. The configuration indicates the watch is a Mark 2.2 Navitimer. It has the Wakmann Watch Co. “WOG” import stamp on the balance cork, which shows that it was imported by the official authorized agent in the United States of America.
- As a tool watch designated for aviators, most examples are heavily used, but this Navitimer retains its unpolished state with sharp edges and deep bevels. The engravings are also clearly visible. As an early Navitimer reference, it is a rare opportunity for pilot’s watch lovers to possess such an amazing, historic and well-preserved specimen of the manufacturer.
Condition Report
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.