Why This Watch Matters This Breitling Chronomat is not for the shy - it commands quite a presence with its large case size and brightly colored hands against the white dial. The Full Story The Chronomat and Navitimer play significant parts in Breitling’s historical association with aviation. The layered scales on the outer dial are a cool design element, but act as true instruments for calculation once you master their usage. This example features a bi-directional rotating bezel with a scale that moves with it. Ervin Piquerez S.A., also known for its Super Compressor dive watch case design, filed for a patent for this design in August of 1967, which was granted in February of 1970. Breitling adopted this rotating bezel/scale design, which is indicated by the Brevet patent number 11525/67 stamped on the caseback. By using the rotating scale, the wearer can measure speed, distance traveled, and even solve mathematical problems. This is an unusual vintage Breitling that's sure to start a conversation. The Fine Print Maker: BreitlingModel: ChronomatReference: 818Year: Circa 1968Case No: 1247652Material: Stainless steelDimensions: 47.5mm diameter; 14mm thicknessCrystal: PlexiglassLume: Yes, tritiumCaliber: Venus manual-winding caliber 178Bracelet/Strap: HODINKEE Black and Grey NATO StrapLug Width: 22mmBox/Papers: N/A What we Love and What You Should Know The case shows surface scratches overall. The caseback engraving is still clearly legible. The bezel shows some wear; the black paint has worn off in some sections, but it rotates properly. The dial shows some aging, with commonly seen spots mostly visible at the center of the dial. The scales on the outer dial are all still legible. The lume plots have aged and darkened in color. The minute and hour hands appear to be later replacements, and the paint on the hands may have been touched up some time ago, but if so, it was neatly done. The movement is in running condition with the chronograph hands starting, stopping, and resetting correctly at this time.
