Breitling - The Hong Kong Watch Auction: XV Hong Kong Monday, November 28, 2022 | Phillips

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  • Manufacturer: Breitling
    Year: Circa 1984
    Reference No: 81950
    Case No: 1’415
    Model Name: Chronomat
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Automatic, cal. 7750, 25 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Leather
    Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel Breitling pin buckle
    Dimensions: 39mm diameter
    Signed: Case, dial, movement and buckle signed
    Accessories: Accompanied by Breitling fitted presentation box.

  • Catalogue Essay

    Tracing back to 1983, a chronograph that was created for the renowned Italian Frecce Tricolori Jet team with an ultra-functional and robust appeal. Lead by the Breitling’s mastermind Ernest Schneider as well as avid pilot himself, he notice that pilots often breaks the crystals on their timepiece when opening the aircraft’s canopy after landing. Thus, the brilliant solution of the “rider tabs” are born. The “Frecce Tricolori” chronograph features a slightly recessed crystal in the bezel and to protect it, four “rider tabs” marking 0, 15, 30 and 45 ensures robustness. Not only is the overall functionality practical, the aesthetic of elegance also suits the Italian gentlemen very well.

    Comes 1984, a year marking the 100th anniversary of the brand, Mr. Schneider launched a new watch for civilians taking foundation from the “Frecce Tricolori” that would revolutionize the industry of chronographs. A name that combines chronograph and automatic, the Breitling Chronomat ref. 81950 was born. A timepiece that impressed from pilots to jetsetters, the Chronomat even has a yachting version and a version specifically designed for the Renault F1 Team. Featuring a cool steel appearance with an attractively aged luminous plots surrounding the iconic winged AOPA logo, the caseback proudly displays the Aermacchi MB-339A aircraft that pays homage to its origin. A perfect watch for aviation enthusiast, the present ref. 81950 is the first dial configuration with a brushed finished case from the Chronomat debut that made history.

  • 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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976

Lot offered with No Reserve

Ref. 81950
A fine and early stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with date and presentation box

Circa 1984
39mm diameter
Case, dial, movement and buckle signed

Estimate
HK$10,000 - 20,000 
€1,200-2,400
$1,300-2,600

Sold for HK$15,120

Contact Specialist

Thomas Perazzi
Head of Watches, Asia
+852 2318 2001
WatchesHK@phillips.com

The Hong Kong Watch Auction: XV

28 - 29 November 2022 (Online Registration ends 27 Nov, 2pm HKT)