Breitling - Geneva Watch Auction: TWO Geneva Saturday, November 7, 2015 | Phillips

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  • Manufacturer: Breitling
    Year: circa 1942
    Reference No: 574'932
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Manual
    Bracelet/Strap: Leather
    Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel buckle
    Dimensions: 41mm. Diameter
    Signed: Dial signed

  • Catalogue Essay

    The present pilot’s chronograph offers fantastic value to the discerning collector, as it is a rare find amongst vintage Breitling wristwatches.

    The black, glossy-finished dial features large and bold luminous Arabic numerals. Along the inner flange of the rotating bezel rest two vertically placed, rectangular luminous strips, permitting the wearer to countdown a time-measurable event. As this was an aviator’s watch, one can assume that it was helpful to pilots during peace and war times.

    The stainless steel case measures a substantial 41 mm in diameter, making it sized for today’s tastes for larger watches. The prominent, turban-shaped crown is positioned below the chronograph’s large pump pusher at 2 o’clock, and one can assume the size of the pusher was made so pilots could easily engage the chronograph function with ease while wearing gloves. The oversized features on this vintage classic provide delightful design elements that many collectors will appreciate.

  • Artist Biography

    Breitling

    Swiss • 1884

    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.

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Ref. 574'932
A very rare and large stainless steel pilot's single button chronograph wristwatch with black dial, rotatable bezel, unusual crown and Art Deco style numerals

circa 1942
41mm. Diameter
Dial signed

Estimate
CHF15,000 - 25,000 

Sold for CHF22,500

Contact Specialist
Nathalie Monbaron
+41 22 317 81 83

Geneva Watch Auction: TWO

Geneva Auction 7 & 8 November 2015 6:30pm