Discover the timeless appeal of Breitling with our curated collection of vintage and pre-owned timepieces.
Breitling is one of the most respected names in the world of watches, renowned particularly for aviation heritage and specialised tool watches. Founded by Léon Breitling in 1884, the Swiss watchmaker quickly established itself as a leader in professional timekeeping instruments. Although the company is no longer operated by the Breitling family, it remains a pioneer in luxury watchmaking, producing exceptional timepieces such as the Navitimer, Chronomat, Top Time, Cosmonaute, and SuperOcean, many of which now feature in-house movements.
Breitling’s legacy as a producer of high-performance chronographs began in the early 20th century. By 1936, Breitling had solidified its reputation as a trusted supplier to military forces, including those of the United Kingdom and Canada. The Navitimer, launched in 1952, became a staple for pilots thanks to its innovative slide rule bezel designed for flight calculations. Similarly, the Chronomat, first introduced in 1942, was embraced for its robust construction and functionality, appealing to aviators and professionals who demanded reliability.
While these iconic models established Breitling’s dominance in aviation watches, the brand expanded its offerings to cater to a broader audience. The Top Time, launched in the 1960s, was a sportier and more affordable chronograph that resonated with motorsport enthusiasts and style-conscious collectors. Breitling also ventured into diving watches with the SuperOcean, a series designed to withstand extreme underwater conditions, and reached new heights—literally—with the Cosmonaute, a space-ready chronograph famously worn by astronaut Scott Carpenter in 1962.
The 1970s presented significant challenges for the Swiss watch industry as the rise of quartz technology led to widespread disruptions. Breitling faced mounting difficulties due to declining sales and the illness of its leader, Willy Breitling. By 1978, the company was forced to liquidate, selling off parts, tools, and naming rights. Despite this setback, the brand was revived in 1979 when entrepreneur Ernest Schneider acquired it, steering Breitling into a new era. Under the Schneider family’s ownership, which lasted until 2017, Breitling successfully modernised its designs while staying true to its heritage, ensuring the brand’s survival and growth.
This transition marked the beginning of a period of renewed innovation, exemplified by the introduction of the caliber B01, an in-house, automatic chronograph movement. The B01 has since become a signature feature in collections such as the Navitimer and Chronomat, showcasing Breitling’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
Today, Breitling continues to blend tradition with innovation, offering watches that appeal to adventurers, professionals, and collectors alike. From the aviation-focused Navitimer and bold Chronomat to the vintage-inspired Top Time and elegant Premier, the brand remains synonymous with style and performance.
