The newly released replica Breitling Chronomat Automatic GMT 40, simply known as the Chronomat GMT, aims to fill the last remaining size gap in the collection. While all popular sizes from a compact 32mm up to a hefty 44mm had been covered, the ideal 40mm, which many consider a perfect fit, had been missing for two years since the line’s overhaul. This new Chronomat GMT 40 features five unique dial colors, blending design and functionality to complete the Chronomat lineup.
When seen from a broader perspective, it all falls into place: replica Breitling’s Chronomat, intended to be its versatile and stylish sports watch, needed a new model to align with the latest trend towards smaller, more practical watches that offer genuine usability without excess bulk. While chronographs are undeniably stylish, especially those with rotatable timing bezels like the Chronomat 42 and 44, their complex movements and water resistance make them thick and heavy. These watches combine nearly 400 components with 200 meters of water resistance, contributing to their robust nature.
Top brands have spotted an increasing demand for replica Breitling watches sized between 39mm and 41mm, catering to those who seek practicality and adaptable design. Identifying this market wasn’t challenging; brands have followed Rolex’s lead, which dominates with its vast sales of watches between 36mm and 40mm. In the past, replica Breitling would have responded to the 42mm and 44mm Chronomats by adding a 46mm powerhouse, which would have been embraced by fans of oversized watches. To cater to these enthusiasts, the brand launched the Super Chronomat 44. However, it also wisely recognized the gap for a 40mm model, bridging it with the introduction of the Chronomat GMT 40.
The new Chronomat GMT 40 is sized at 40mm in diameter and 11.77mm in thickness, making it an ideal choice for daily wear. Despite its smaller size, it maintains the 200m water resistance of its larger counterparts, retaining the all-around versatility of the Chronomat 42 and 44. Its lug-to-lug measurement is a manageable 47.4mm, comfortably under the 50mm threshold, making it suitable for those with slimmer wrists. The crown guard is seamlessly integrated into the case with smooth, polished edges that lead to a slightly oversized crown. Observant Chronomat enthusiasts will notice that the 15 and 45 runner tabs on the bezel are no longer secured by screws and swappable, unlike some other Chronomat models where the bezel could be transformed into a countdown timer. These distinctive tabs and their screws, which were a hallmark of the Chronomat design, have been replaced with a thinner bezel for a more streamlined look.
The iconic Rouleaux bracelet is also featured and is just as stunning as on the larger models. Few watches in the under-$6,000 category offer the same level of refinement in a steel bracelet. Each link is meticulously beveled and polished, with such attention to detail that it would not look out of place on a watch costing three times as much. Unfortunately, the bracelet’s design does not accommodate a micro-adjust feature on the butterfly clasp. However, the narrow individual links allow for a good fit on a variety of wrist sizes, providing some level of customization in terms of comfort.
