The Breitling Navitimer. The name alone conjures images of aviation history, of meticulously crafted instruments strapped to the wrists of daring pilots. For decades, the Navitimer, with its instantly recognizable slide-rule bezel, has been synonymous with Breitling's heritage and a coveted piece for watch enthusiasts worldwide. But the Navitimer 8 B01 Chronograph 43 represents a significant shift, a departure from the classic design that has defined the line for so long. It's a change so stark, so different from what we're used to seeing, that it initially leaves one a little… perplexed. This review delves deep into this intriguing timepiece, exploring its strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately determining whether it deserves a place in the pantheon of great Breitling Navitimers.
A Departure from Tradition: Design and Aesthetics
The most immediate observation about the Navitimer 8 B01 Chronograph 43 is its departure from the iconic circular slide-rule bezel. While the Navitimer family has seen variations over the years, the fundamental design language has remained largely consistent. The Navitimer 8, however, opts for a cleaner, more modern aesthetic. The bezel is now simpler, devoid of the complex slide-rule markings. This minimalist approach, while initially jarring to purists, allows other design elements to take center stage.
The 43mm case, crafted from stainless steel, presents a substantial yet comfortable presence on the wrist. Its polished finish catches the light beautifully, showcasing the intricate details of the casework. The lugs are elegantly curved, ensuring a snug and comfortable fit, even for those with smaller wrists. The crown, along with the chronograph pushers, is well-integrated, contributing to the overall streamlined design.
The dial is where the Navitimer 8 truly shines. While lacking the busy complexity of its predecessors, it boasts a remarkable clarity and legibility. The subdials are perfectly proportioned, and the applied indices and hands are filled with Super-LumiNova, ensuring excellent nighttime readability. The date window, subtly placed at 6 o'clock, doesn't detract from the overall balance of the dial. Breitling offers a variety of dial colors and finishes, allowing for personalization to suit individual tastes.
The Heart of the Beast: The Breitling Caliber B01
Powering this impressive timepiece is the Breitling Caliber B01, an in-house manufactured automatic chronograph movement. This is a significant point of pride for Breitling, showcasing their commitment to horological excellence. The B01 is a robust and reliable movement, known for its accuracy and longevity. With a power reserve of approximately 70 hours, it provides ample timekeeping capability, even if the watch is left unworn for a couple of days. The movement is visible through the sapphire crystal caseback, allowing watch enthusiasts to appreciate the intricate craftsmanship and meticulous finishing of the components. This transparency adds another layer of appeal, reinforcing the quality and precision inherent in the B01. This contrasts sharply with some concerns surrounding other movements in the past, which are discussed later in this review under "Breitling B01 Problems."
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