Why This Watch Matters This Breitling Navitimer reference 806 is fitted with the early all-black dial and has a soft overall patina that brings out the beauty of this piece. The Full Story The Navitimer is considered one of the most iconic pilot watches, and is still going strong since the mid-1950s. The model originally started as a collaboration with the AOPA (Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association), which is why we often see the AOPA wing logo on the dial. The first Navitimers were fitted with an all-black dial and a Valjoux 72 chronograph movement for a very short period. The next 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 and rare. This example has “806” engraved on the back, and features a nice beaded bezel, which was prominently used in the earlier Navitimer models. The Fine Print Maker: BreitlingModel: NavitimerReference: 806Year: Circa 1960sCase No: 916936Material: Stainless steelDimensions: 40mm diameter; 13mm thicknessCrystal: PlexiglassLume: Yes, radiumCaliber: Venus manual-winding caliber 178 with import mark “WOG”Bracelet/Strap: The HODINKEE Reid Watch Strap In BlackLug Width: 22mmBox/Papers: No What we Love and What You Should Know Overall, the watch is in very good condition. The case is well preserved, with the bevel on the lugs and the crisp caseback engraving still visible. The beaded bezel is also in very good condition as well. The crown and pushers appear to be original. The dial shows a beautiful overall patina with a very soft champagne color on the printed areas. The lume on the numerals and hands has darkened to an even light olive color that goes very well with the rest of the dial. The areas around the AOPA wing logo and the left register show some wear along with some scratches around the center post. There is some visible oxidation under the caseback around the outer edges of the case. The watch is in running condition with the chronograph starting, stopping, and resetting correctly at this time.
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