A stunning example of the Breitling Navitimer Chrono-Matic Reference 8808.
First introduced in circa 1973, the Navitimer 8808 boasted a unique and attractive design featuring "Big Eye" sub dials and the crown situated on the left-hand side of the case. It also featured the automatic Caliber 12 movement housed within a traditional tapered lugs case measuring approximately 40/41mm in diameter. On the wrist, this watch really is something to behold, especially in this condition!
Birth of an Icon
The Breitling Navitimer is an iconic timepiece with a rich history that dates back to 1952. Designed as the ultimate aviation tool watch, it quickly gained popularity among pilots and aviation enthusiasts alike. Over the years, the Navitimer has become an enduring emblem of the brand.
Meeting the Needs of Pilots
In the early 1950s, Breitling sought to create a watch that would cater specifically to the needs of pilots. Their aim was to provide a reliable and functional instrument that could assist with vital calculations during flight. In collaboration with the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), Breitling developed the Navitimer, which featured a patented slide rule bezel. This innovative component enabled pilots to perform complex calculations such as fuel consumption, airspeed, and distance all with the simple turn of the bezel.
The first Navitimer (to feature the Breitling name on the dial), was the reference 806, was powered by a Venus 178 manual-wind movement and featured the AOPA wings logo on its dial. As the watch gained recognition, Breitling introduced various iterations, incorporating different movements and aesthetic enhancements. The 1960s saw the introduction of the Navitimer Cosmonaute, a 24-hour version of the original model that accompanied astronaut Scott Carpenter on his Mercury-Atlas 7 mission.
The Birth of the Automatic Chronograph
In 1969, Breitling collaborated with Heuer, Hamilton-Bren, and Dubois-Dpraz to develop the world's first automatic chronograph movement, the Caliber 11. This groundbreaking innovation led to the release of the Navitimer Chrono-Matic, which featured the crown on the left-hand side of the case and an automatic chronograph function.
The Navitimer Chrono-Matic ref. 8808
The Navitimer Chrono-Matic ref. 8808 features distinctive "Big Eyes" hour and minute counters, accentuating its classic appeal. However, it does not include a running seconds subdial at 6 o'clock, as the date display takes its place. The dial and slide rule are adorned with striking red accents, elevating the watch's overall aesthetic. Depending on the version, the logos can be either the "Twin Jet" emblem for Breitling-distributed Navitimers or the silver-white printed AOPA-signed wings.
The Irresistible Charm of the Breitling Navitimer Chrono-Matic Reference 8808
In the world of vintage watches, the Breitling Navitimer Chrono-Matic Reference 8808 stands out as a testament to horological prowess and timeless elegance. Boasting an unmistakable design and a storied past, this captivating timepiece effortlessly merges aviation heritage with a horologically historic moment in time. With its alluring aesthetics, precise functionality, and an undeniable conversation-starting prowess, the Reference 8808 is the perfect choice for those looking to navigate the skies of vintage watch collecting in style. So, buckle up and prepare for takeoff the Chrono-Matic is ready to elevate your wrist game to new heights.
