Reference Guide
christianch's visual review of the Breitling Navitimer Ref. 806 - 1959 Re-edition offers an intimate look at a highly anticipated timepiece. This article delves into the details that make this re-edition a standout, from its faithful adherence to vintage aesthetics to modern horological advancements. Readers will discover why this particular Navitimer has captivated collectors and enthusiasts alike, providing a valuable perspective for those considering this iconic pilot's watch.
Dear All,
I am happy to share my (mostly visual) review of the Breitling Navitimer Ref. 806 - 1959 Re-edition. I have been looking for this watch
since Basel World and just Thursday I received an email saying that it was available through the Breitling website. I made a call to the local AD that happen to have one and I just received this beauty on Friday. Let's see the photos!
At 40.9mm the size is perfect. Not as big as many Navitimers. I totally love how busy (and different) the dial is.
To keep it close to the original there is no sapphire glass but the original acrylic glass that makes it a bit harder to photograph but is gorgeous in person
the back is very simple and consistent with the original.
I love the strap too. Very comfortable
A notable mention to the very cool and useful box. It doubles as a travel box for the watch. This is very clever.
I also love the electronic warranty card (it includes a display) and the 5 years warranty. Well done Breitling in giving a longer warranty!
the old logo is very charming
the movement is in-house and manual wound with a power reserve of 70 hours. This version of the movement was developed just for this watch
and the charging is very smooth and satisfying!
In conclusion this watch offers a lot of value for the money. I am glad that I could get one as soon as it became available. Really an amazing re-edition.
The Navitimer reference 806 is a notable early iteration of Breitling's slide rule chronograph, distinguished by its comprehensive circular slide rule bezel. This reference established many of the visual and functional characteristics that would define the Navitimer line for decades. It represents a foundational piece in the development of the brand's instrument watches, designed for calculations relevant to navigation.
The watch features a 40 mm stainless steel case, housing a manual-wind Venus 178 column-wheel chronograph caliber. This movement provides a power reserve of approximately 45 hours. The dial is black, protected by an acrylic crystal, and the watch offers a water resistance of 30 meters. The bi-directional rotating bezel is integral to the slide rule function.
For collectors, the reference 806 is significant as an early example of the Navitimer, appealing to those interested in the historical progression of aviation-related timepieces. Its production span saw variations in dial printing and sub-dial configurations, which are points of interest for specialized collectors. The model's enduring design has influenced subsequent generations of the Navitimer.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us. Best, V.
I received mine too yesterday. I ordered back in March when I first saw it released at Basel. Such a great watch!
A beautiful re-edition, good job from Breitling. 806 and 809 are among my fav Breitlings. I love the fact of being able to buy a watch from the past, with today's technology. Enjoy it! Vte
I have had the original and looked at this one since the presentation. It looks very nice, a modern reissue of a great watch. I suspect that seeing it in the metal will be critical (for my credit card of course). Thank you both for the pics.
...which is a great thing. If anything I think Plexi is easier to photograph than sapphire. It will only look more vintage and charming over time.
but since I only like new watches this was an easy choice for me
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