Why This Watch Matters This Breitling Navitimer Reference 806 is fitted with the early all-black dial with a stunning patina on the dial. The Full Story The Navitimer is without a doubt one of the most iconic pilot watch designs ever created. Since its production beginning in the mid-1950s, it remains Breitling’s core model in the modern era, along with their Chronomat series. The model originally started as a project to create a functional tool watch with the AOPA (Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association). The wide-set AOPA wing logo is the result of that collaboration. For a very short period, the first Navitimers were fitted with an all-black dial and Valjoux 72 chronograph movement. The following iteration carried over the all-black dial but was fitted with the Venus 178 chronograph movement instead. This early dial version has only the AOPA wing logo without any printed signature of “Breitling” or “AOPA,” which makes it more unusual in itself. This example has an “806” engraving on the back with the nice beaded bezel that was prominently used in earlier Navitimer models. A re-edition model (1959 Reference 806) was introduced by Breitling for their Basel 2019 presentation. Near identical in design to this example, it is a testament to the powerful design heritage of the Navitimer. The Fine Print Maker: BreitlingModel: NavitimerReference: 806Year: Circa 1960sCase No: 909667Material: Stainless steelDimensions: 40mm diameter; 13mm thicknessCrystal: PlexiglassLume: Yes, radiumCaliber: Venus manual-winding caliber 178 with import mark “WOG”Bracelet/Strap: HODINKEE Bedford Watch Strap In BeigeLug Width: 22mmBox/Papers: No What we Love and What You Should Know Overall, the watch is in stunning vintage condition. The case is in very good condition with the bevel on the lugs still visible, and a crisp caseback engraving. The beaded bezel is also in very good condition as well, and the crown and pushers appear to be original. The dial shows a beautiful patina. The smoky ombré effect on the outer track may be a personal preference, but we think it's a fantastic patina that perfectly melds the off-white outer track with the black glossy center of the dial. The lume on the numerals and hands has the ideal creamy vanilla color.
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