The Breitling Navitimer Chrono-Matic Ref. 1806. The name alone conjures images of aviation history, precision engineering, and a timeless design. For a price point currently hovering around $4,680.00, this watch represents an exceptional value within the world of vintage chronographs, offering a tangible link to a pivotal era in horological innovation. This in-depth exploration will delve into the nuances of the Ref. 1806, examining its history, design features, technical specifications, and its enduring appeal within the broader context of the Breitling Navitimer and Breitling Genève lines.
A Legacy Forged in the Skies:
The Navitimer, in its various iterations, stands as a testament to Breitling's enduring relationship with aviation. Born in 1952, the original Navitimer quickly became a favorite among pilots worldwide, its iconic slide rule bezel providing essential calculations for flight planning. The Ref. 1806, however, represents a significant evolution, marking Breitling's embrace of the groundbreaking automatic chronograph movement. This transition from manually wound movements to the automatic caliber 11, co-developed with Heuer, Breitling, and Buren (the so-called "Chronomatic" movement), signified a crucial leap forward in both convenience and functionality. This movement, a true marvel of its time, allowed for the seamless integration of an automatic winding mechanism into a chronograph, a feat not easily achieved in the mid-1960s.
The Ref. 1806, produced during the late 1960s and early 1970s, embodies this pioneering spirit. It’s not merely a timekeeping instrument; it’s a piece of horological history, a tangible representation of a time when innovation and precision were paramount. The watch's design, while rooted in the classic Navitimer aesthetic, subtly reflects the technological advancements of its era. The slightly more streamlined case, the refined dial layout, and the subtle integration of the automatic movement all contribute to its unique character. Owning a Ref. 1806 is akin to owning a piece of aviation and horological history, a tangible connection to the golden age of flight and watchmaking.
Design Elements: A Symphony of Form and Function:
The Ref. 1806 retains the quintessential Navitimer design DNA, yet possesses its own distinctive personality. The iconic circular slide rule bezel, a hallmark of the Navitimer lineage, remains central to its design. This bezel, a sophisticated calculating tool, allows pilots to perform crucial calculations, including speed, distance, fuel consumption, and more. The bezel's intricate markings, precisely engraved and meticulously crafted, are a testament to Breitling's commitment to precision and functionality.
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