Manufacturer: Breitling Year: 1965 Reference No: 765 AVI Case No: 1’026’466 Model Name: AVI Material: Stainless steel Calibre: Manual, cal. 178, 17 jewels, stamped "WOG" Bracelet/Strap: Leather Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel pin buckle Dimensions: 41mm Diameter Signed: Case, dial and movement signed Accessories: Accompanied by electronic Breitling Extract from the Archives confirming manufacture in August 1965.
Catalogue Essay
When one thinks about aviation watches, Breitling immediately comes to mind. It is therefore only befitting that in 1953 the brand launched the reference 765 AVI (AVI representing Aviation): a large pilot chronograph with a 12H rotating steel bezel. The first model displayed a digital 15-minute counter at 3 o’clock and was referred to as the 765 Digital. This counter design was later replaced by a larger 15-minute register with oversized luminous markers placed at 3 minutes increments, like with the present model.
As always, a watch benefits from celebrity association, and the 765 AVI boasts not just one, but two strong celebrity endorsements: Jean-Claude Killy, the famous Swiss alpine ski racer who was photographed with this model on his wrist after he won all three gold medals in alpine skiing at the 1968 Winter Olympics in Grenoble, France, and Raquel Welch, the prominent mid-century actress and femme fatale who wore a 765 AVI in the James Bond spoof movie, Fathom (1967).
The present 765 AVI, in overall very appealing condition, shares the same movement as the more well-known Navitimer, the Venus 178.
The 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.
