Breitling Navitimer New Model Guide

jlux · 2022-06-22T08:11:35Z

Explore jlux's in-depth review of the 2022 Breitling Navitimer, detailing its thinner case, refined dial, and B01 movement improvements. Discover why this iconic pilot's watch remains a collector's favorite.

jlux

WPS member · Horological Meandering forum

25 replies2723 views8 photos

Jlux's detailed review of the 2022 Breitling Navitimer release offers a compelling look at how modern updates can enhance a classic. His decision to exchange a previous version for this new iteration underscores the significant improvements Breitling has implemented. This article delves into jlux's firsthand experience, highlighting the design refinements and technical advancements that make this Navitimer a standout.

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I have always been a great fan of the Navitimer and I found the new releases so convincing that I had to add it to the collection...and exchange against the previous version.

Nothing wrong with the previous version but the advantages of this year's release are numerous.

I opted for the 43mm version which to me is the best compromise between wearability and case proportions.

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The main advantage is perhaps the noticeably thinner case: 1mm less in height and this includes a now domed sapphire versus the flat sapphire from the predecessor.

The watch sits much better on the wrist and is more comfortable to wear.

The dial is less busy while still retaining the typical Navitimer design.Also the date integration is now less obtrusive as with the previous 4:30 position.

I have chosen the silver reversed panda dial which nicely changes with different light situations : from bright silver to metallic grey. Breitling also proposes some more "modern" colors like mint green or ice blue:attractive yes, but I am not so sure if these will stand the test of time in combination with such a classic icon.

Nice detail : the old Breitling logo is back.

A very attractive feature is the partial brushing of the case which is more true to the tool watch heritage while also adding to the luxurious feel.

The B01 movement performs very well with a daily deviation of less than 1 sec. The use of a skeleton rotor has increased the visual appeal.

To be noted also that the winding action is now much smoother as compared to previous B01 movements and no longer a pain to use.

All in all a very convincing release from Breitling. They modernized and improved their icon in many aspects while at the same time bringing the design again closer to the original 806 reference.

And finally a wrist shot in clouded natural light.

Thanks for looking,

Gerard

About the Breitling Navitimer 806 Ref. 806

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.

Specifications

Caliber: Venus 178

Case: Stainless steel

Diameter: 40 mm

Dial: Black

Water Resist.: 30m

Crystal: Acrylic

Key Points from the Discussion

The new Navitimer's design successfully modernizes a classic model while retaining its iconic appeal, a strategy appreciated by collectors for keeping heritage relevant.
Even for those not typically drawn to the Navitimer, the 2022 version's refinements, such as the thinner case and less obtrusive date, have garnered positive attention.
The 43mm case size is highlighted as an optimal balance for wearability and aesthetic proportions, making it a key factor in the watch's improved on-wrist comfort.
The return of the vintage Breitling logo and the partial brushing of the case are noted as significant details that enhance both the watch's historical authenticity and its luxurious feel.
The B01 movement in the new Navitimer offers improved winding smoothness and impressive accuracy, with a daily deviation of less than 1 second, alongside an aesthetically enhanced skeleton rotor.

The Discussion

montres1

Jun 22, 2022

A part from that, even though I am not a huge fan of Navitimers, this new version is quite nice, congrats !

blau

Jun 22, 2022

I'm going to have to go try one of these on! I've never owned a Breitling

Jari from Finland

Jun 22, 2022

The watch looks amazing and the size is just right for you. In my opinion it is good that brands also produces moderrnize version of its older classical models.

jlux

Jun 22, 2022

You will most probably be very positively surprised.

jlux

Jun 22, 2022

And the Navitimer is such an icon with 70 years of (sometimes interruped) history.

jlux

Jun 23, 2022

But then again, I have no intention nor necessity to go swimming with this watch.

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About the Breitling Navitimer 806 Ref. 806

Specifications

Key Points from the Discussion

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