While Breitling is known for several iconic watches, the Navitimer stands out as the brand’s hallmark piece. Originally introduced in 1952 as a specialized tool for aviators, the Breitling Navitimer is among the select few watches truly deserving of the term “iconic,” despite how frequently that term is used. Its slide-rule bezel and intricate dial design make it easily identifiable across its various sizes and models. For its latest release in 2023, Breitling has introduced a new two-tone version of the 46mm pilot’s watch. This limited edition, the replica Breitling Navitimer B01 Chronograph 46 U.S. Limited Edition, is produced in only 300 units and will be exclusively available in the U.S. market.
The new replica Breitling Navitimer B01 Chronograph 46 U.S. Limited Edition maintains the same core design and functionality as the existing 46mm models from the current Navitimer lineup. The significant update here is that it is the only Navitimer chronograph available in a two-tone configuration. Like the standard versions, this exclusive edition features a brushed and polished stainless steel case measuring 46mm in diameter and 13.9mm in thickness, with 24mm lugs and an overall lug-to-lug measurement of 51.8mm. Additionally, both the dial and the screw-down case back are protected by sapphire crystals, while the watch offers a water resistance of 30 meters for everyday use. Although the signed winding crown and pump-style pushers are crafted from stainless steel, the signature knurled rotating bezel is made from 18k red gold.
The two-tone theme continues on the dial of the new replica Breitling Navitimer B01 Chronograph 46 U.S. Limited Edition, showcasing an anthracite surface complemented by red gold-finished hands and hour markers. While the overall design mirrors that of other 46mm Navitimer models, the dial for this U.S.-exclusive edition features a unique color scheme not found on any other Navitimer chronographs. Against the anthracite gray central surface, there are three black chronograph registers and a black slide-rule scale around the edge. The text is presented in white, with small red highlights marking key points on the slide rule scale, and the centrally mounted chronograph seconds hand has a red shaft. Finally, green-emission Super-LumiNova is used on the hour markers’ outer perimeter and on both the hour and minute hands, ensuring visibility in low-light conditions.
Driving the new replica Breitling Navitimer B01 Chronograph 46 U.S. Limited Edition is the same Caliber 01 automatic chronograph movement found in most of the brand’s current production chronographs. Operating at a frequency of 28,800vph (4 Hz) with a power reserve of about 70 hours, the Breitling Cal. 01 features a column wheel and vertical clutch. As a COSC-certified chronometer, it meets stringent accuracy standards of -4/+6 seconds per day. While the Caliber 01 appears in various Breitling models, the version used in the Navitimer is slightly more ornate than those found in more budget-friendly options like the Top Time, showcasing Geneva stripes and gold-filled engravings on its skeletonized rotor and upper bridges.
Attached to the lugs of the replica Breitling Navitimer B01 Chronograph 46 U.S. Limited Edition is a black alligator leather strap with white contrasting stitching, tapering from 24mm at the case to 20mm at the stainless steel clasp. As with most of the brand’s leather straps, the interior is lined in Breitling’s signature bright yellow. The signed deployant-style clasp features a double push-button release, consistent with those found in the rest of the Navitimer collection. Considering Breitling offers both stainless steel and solid gold versions of the Navitimer, along with two-tone variations of the time-only models, this new U.S. exclusive edition seems like a natural addition to the brand’s catalog, yet it is currently the only steel and gold Navitimer chronograph available in any size.
