Breitling refreshed its flagship for 2022
In the watch world, the word "iconic" is thrown around quite a bit. Perhaps too much.
But there are watches that truly deserve "icon" status, and they're usually the ones known on a first name basis (Monaco, Speedmaster, Sub) or by nickname (Pepsi GMT).
The Navitimer is one of those watches. So, it's worth taking a look at its latest iteration, or iterations plural, considering the 3 different sizes (41, 43, and 46mm, respectively).
Admittedly, the collection is attractive. Invigorated with new colors and stylistic cues, Breitling hopes this tool watch can appeal to a broader audience. And appeal it does.
Here's a highlight reel of updates:
A thinner case, coming in well under 14mm
A skeletonized rotor, showcasing the calibre
An upgraded bracelet with a butterfly deployant clasp
Deeper subdials with concentric circles (and an integrated date window at 6)
The skeletonized rotor: a small change that makes a big difference
Overall, the new Navitimer is sleeker, sharper, and more colorful (note well the Copper and Mint green dials). There are some drawbacks, however.
First, while Breitling overs a plethora of eye-catching dial colors, they are--frustratingly--limited to certain dial sizes. For instance, the gorgeous blue on white version is only available on the 46mm version.
Second, there are a few practical points to consider. Water resistance (or lack thereof) and an, ahem, optimistic pricing strategy. Breitling retails these around the $9,000 mark, which is expensive enough to give many enthusiasts pause.
There's a lot of competition in that price range (even within the Breitling brand). So, what's the verdict?
At full retail, this Navitimer is ambitiously priced. But, if acquired at a reasonable 25% discount, the calculus changes considerably. At that price, the Navitimer is neck and neck with the competition, such as Omega's Speedmaster.
And with the added convenience of automatic winding and a date function, not to mention the charm of the rose gold accents, it's more than a mere alternative. It's iconic.
It's a Navitimer.
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