By Kien Lee
Breitling kicks off a grand celebration of its 140th anniversary with two of its icons leading the way.
This month, the brand recognizes two of its icons. The Navitimer, the first wristwatch for pilots to combine a chronograph and a computational slide rule. And the Cosmonaute, a 24-hour take on the Navitimer that became the first Swiss wristwatch in space.
For this occasion, Breitling unveils new versions of these lines: the Navitimer GMT and Automatic 41, along with a new self-winding Cosmonaute.
“All this year, we’ll be talking about our 140 Years of Firsts,” says Georges Kern, CEO of Breitling. “And when it comes to these two watches—the Navitimer and Cosmonaute—you cannot overstate the significance they’ve had for our brand, for aviation, and for watchmaking as a whole.”
Breitling began redesigning the Navitimer line in 2022, starting with the original chronograph. Today, it continues that update with two new pared-down executions: a GMT and a three-hand Automatic, each in a universally wearable 41-mm size.
These pieces distill the Navitimer’s iconic look, omitting the chronograph yet preserving a balanced dial composition. The central placement of the 24-hour scale on the GMT and the Automatic’s clean face ensure the intricate slide rule stands out while streamlining the overall aesthetics.
Further refining the collection, Breitling incorporated a notched bezel for a contemporary touch, and alternating polished and brushed finishes that add a dynamic play of light. Straps in alligator leather and bracelets with a seamless butterfly clasp offer comfort and convenience.
The palette includes black, blue, silver, ice blue, and green dials, encased in stainless steel or 18 k red gold, and a two-tone variant for the Automatic. The full-gold versions carry the Origins label, signifying responsibly mined gold in line with the Swiss Better Gold Association’s environmental and social standards.
This reinvention of the Navitimer, marrying the classic with the contemporary, is tailored for enthusiasts and the style-conscious alike, promising Breitling’s commitment to heritage and innovation in each timepiece.
