Breitling - The Hong Kong Watch Auction: NINE Hong Kong Monday, November 25, 2019 | Phillips

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  • Manufacturer: Breitling
    Year: 1966
    Reference No: 806
    Case No: 1'065'999
    Model Name: Navitimer
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Manual, cal. 178, 17 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Leather
    Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel Breitling buckle
    Dimensions: 40mm Diameter
    Signed: Case, dial, movement and buckle signed

  • Catalogue Essay

    Breitling’s Navitimer (navigation and timer) chronograph watch is an iconic amongst collectors because it is the ultimate “tool” watch. Initially released in the 1950s, the Navitimer was a timepiece pilots used for a navigational tool. The rotating slide rule first made its appearance on Breitling wristwatches with the Chronomat model, released in 1942, and was intended to assist pilots with a multitude of flight details including airspeed, fuel consumption, flight time, distance and kilometer nautical miles and gallon/liter fuel conversions. The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) developed the Navitimer in conjunction with Breitling and the watch was released in 1954. The AOPA named the watch as its official timekeeper and soon was used globally. The initial examples featured a Valjoux 72 movement, however this was soon upgraded in 1955 to a Venus 178 movement similar to the present example. The Navitimer chronograph has remained in the Breitling line up since it was first released and in 2019 the brand released a re-edition, which was a faithful replica of the 1950s model.

    The present watch is in excellent overall condition with a black dial and gilt AOPA logo below the 12 o’clock. The movement features the “WOG” import code, indicating the Wakmann Watch Co., the American Breitling representative and confirmed being produced in 1966. For collectors who appreciate the history of horology, the reference 806 is a must have timepiece.

  • 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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LOT OFFERED WITH NO RESERVE

977

Lot offered with No Reserve

Ref. 806
A fine and attractive stainless steel pilot’s chronograph wristwatch with black gilt dial

1966
40mm Diameter
Case, dial, movement and buckle signed

Estimate
HK$31,000 - 47,000 
€3,500-5,400
$4,000-6,000

Sold for HK$25,000

Contact Specialist

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

The Hong Kong Watch Auction: NINE

Hong Kong Auction 25-26 November 2019