Breitling Set to Unveil Navitimer GMT, Automatic 41, and Limited Edition Cosmonaute in Commemoration of 140-Year Legacy
In a celebration of its 140-year heritage, Breitling is preparing to share its storied journey marked by pioneering achievements, from revolutionizing timekeeping across air, land, and sea to championing sustainability. This month, the renowned watchmaker introduces two iconic timepieces: the Navitimer GMT and Automatic 41, alongside the highly anticipated limited edition automatic Cosmonaute.
“This year, we embark on a journey back to our roots, delving into 140 years of groundbreaking firsts,” remarked Breitling CEO Georges Kern. “The Navitimer and Cosmonaute stand as testament to our brand’s rich history, their significance extending beyond horology to shape the aviation industry and watchmaking as a whole.”
Returning to its origins, Breitling unveils the versatile Navitimer GMT and Automatic 41 models, paying homage to its pivotal role in civil aviation’s evolution. Initially adopted as an essential companion aboard propeller and jet aircraft, the Navitimer, introduced in 1952, swiftly gained favor among pilots during the nascent years of civil aviation.
Equipped with a rotating slide rule for critical calculations such as fuel consumption and rate of climb, the Navitimer emerged as the quintessential in-flight computer, solidifying Breitling’s status as the “Official Supplier of the World’s Aviation Industry.” As its popularity transcended the skies, the Navitimer found resonance among cultural icons like Miles Davis and Serge Gainsbourg, becoming a hallmark of both aviation and pop culture.
Breitling’s redesign journey, commencing in 2022, honors the original Navitimer’s legacy by presenting two refined iterations: the GMT and three-hand Automatic models, boasting a streamlined 41mm silhouette for universal appeal.
Embracing the Navitimer’s iconic aesthetics while streamlining functionality, the GMT variant features a central 24-hour dial, while the Automatic model showcases a clean dial, accentuating the intricate slide rule while elevating its visual appeal.
Further enhancing the collection, Breitling introduces contemporary engraved bezels, alternating between polished and satin finishes to create captivating light dynamics. Ensuring both comfort and convenience, the timepieces come with alligator leather straps and bracelets featuring butterfly clasps.
Available in an array of striking dial colors including black, blue, silver, ice blue, and green, and crafted from stainless steel, 18K gold, or steel and gold, each model exemplifies Breitling’s commitment to excellence and sustainability, with full gold variants accompanied by certificates verifying ethical sourcing in accordance with Swiss Better Gold Association standards.
In parallel, Breitling commemorates its pioneering venture into space with the limited edition automatic Cosmonaute. Inspired by astronaut Scott Carpenter’s bespoke request in 1962 to enhance the Navitimer for space exploration, this exclusive model, limited to 250 pieces, integrates the self-winding chronograph movement caliber B12.
Adorned with an 18K red gold case, complemented by a rich green dial, gold numerals, and a black alligator leather strap, the Cosmonaute pays tribute to Breitling’s storied legacy of blending historical achievements with modern sophistication.
As Breitling embarks on its 140th year journey, it welcomes soccer sensation Erling Haaland to the Navitimer squad, joining forces with basketball star Giannis Antetokounmpo in the Navitimer 41 campaign. Haaland, a Breitling ambassador since 2022, expresses his pride in representing the iconic timepiece, underscoring Breitling’s legacy as a pioneering game-changer.
With the promise of unveiling further novelties and events throughout its anniversary year, Breitling invites enthusiasts to join in celebrating 140 Years of Firsts, marking a milestone in horological history.
For more information, please visit Breitling.com.