Watch Review: Breitling Navitimer Ref. 806 1959 Re-Edition
The carefully constructed Breitling Navitimer Ref. 806 1959 Re-Edition pays homage to one of the most famous clocks in aviation history. When the Navitimer Ref. 806 was first released in 1959, its unique design and usefulness made it a legend among watch aficionados and pilots. With astounding attention to detail, Breitling has recreated this classic, making sure to maintain the original model’s integrity while utilising contemporary craftsmanship.
A 40.9 mm stainless steel case, a black dial with the recognisable beaded bezel, and the hand-wound Breitling Calibre B09 movement a contemporary take on the original chronograph movement are the standout elements of this re-edition. The Navitimer Ref. 806 1959 Re-Edition is highly sought-after by collectors and aviation enthusiasts because it is the ideal fusion of modern watchmaking techniques with historical accuracy.
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Table of Contents
Overview of the Breitling Navitimer Ref. 806 1959 Re-Edition
The classic 1959 Navitimer, cherished for its aviation functionality and unique style, is faithfully honoured by the Breitling Navitimer Ref. 806 1959 Re-Edition. A 40.9 mm stainless steel case, a black dial with tone-on-tone sub-dials, and a beaded bezel with precisely 94 beads all featured on the original model are highlights of this re-edition. It has a 70-hour power reserve and a slide rule bezel and premium acrylic crystal that preserve historical accuracy.
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It is driven by the hand-wound Breitling Calibre B09 movement. This limited edition clock, which combines contemporary precision and craftsmanship with classic beauty, is a collector’s dream.
Features
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Hand-Wound Movement: Outfitted with the in-house Breitling Calibre B09, a hand-wound movement designed to preserve the performance of the original chronograph and boasting a 70-hour power reserve.
Beaded Bezel: Accurately replicates the 94 beads on the bezel, matching the exact number on the 1959 model to guarantee historical authenticity. 40.9 mm.
Stainless Steel Case: Preserves the traditional proportions of the original, offering a retro appearance and texture while guaranteeing robustness.
Black Dial: Preserves the vintage look with a black dial and tone-on-tone sub-dials for the 12-hour, 30-minute, and tiny seconds counters.
Slide Rule Bezel: A distinguishing feature of the Navitimer series, the circular slide rule bezel facilitates a variety of aviation-related computations.
Acrylic Crystal: Enhances the vintage charm by imitating the appearance and feel of the original 1959 model using a premium hesalite crystal.
Water Resistance: Suitable for daily usage and mild water exposure, this item is water-resistant up to 30 metres (100 feet).
Limited Edition: The uniqueness and collecting value of each piece are highlighted by their limited manufacturing run.
Historical Engravings: Preserves the heritage and authenticity of the 1959 model by including the original Breitling emblem and inscription on the case back.
Care and Maintenance
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Routine Cleaning: To get rid of dust and fingerprints, wipe the watch off with a gentle, dry cloth. For a more thorough cleaning, use a slightly damp towel and do not submerge.
Water Exposure: Steer clear of extended submersion even though it is water resistant. If exposed to seawater, properly clean and pat dry.
Steer clear of Extreme Conditions: To preserve the watch’s accuracy and operation, shield it from magnetic fields, shocks, and extremely high or low temperatures.
Service Intervals: To ensure peak performance, adhere to Breitling’s suggested service intervals, which are normally every three to five years. Make sure that trained Breitling professionals perform the servicing.
Hand Winding: To ensure the accuracy of the timekeeping on a hand-wound watch, wind the movement on a regular basis. By pausing when resistance is felt, you can prevent over-winding
Price and Availability
The price of the Breitling Navitimer Ref. 806 1959 Re-Edition is $9,500.
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You can learn more on the official website: Breitling
Specifications
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MOVEMENT
Caliber | Breitling B09 (Manufacture) |
---|---|
Movement | Mechanical hand-wound |
Power reserve | Approx. 70 hrs |
Chronograph | 1/5th second, 30 minutes, 12 hours |
Vibration | 28,800 v.p.h |
Jewel | 34 jewels |
CASE
Case material | Stainless steel |
---|---|
Caseback | Snapped |
Water resistance | 3 bars i |
Bezel | Bidirectional, slide rule |
Crown | Non screw-locked, one gasket |
Crystal | Plexiglas |
DIMENSIONS
Product Weight (Approx.) | 75.0 g. |
---|---|
Watch-head Weight (Approx.) | 60.6 g. |
Diameter | 41.0 mm |
Thickness | 12.9 mm |
Height (upper lug tip to lower lug tip) | 48.7 mm |
Lug width (in-between lug) | 22.0 mm |
STRAP
Strap material | Calfskin leather |
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Strap color | Black |
Strap type | Straight |
Lug | 22/18 mm |
Buckle Material | Stainless steel |
Buckle type | Tang-type |
Buckle size | 18 mm |
Conclusion
The Breitling Navitimer Ref. 806 1959 Re-Edition, which blends historical authenticity with contemporary craftsmanship, is a magnificent homage to a renowned watch. Collectors and aviation aficionados seek it out because of its authentic design components, hand-wound Calibre B09 movement, and limited edition status.
The 1959 Navitimer’s soul is captured in this re-edition, which also makes sure it stays relevant in the current horological environment. Its usefulness and aesthetic appeal can be preserved with proper care and upkeep, making it a treasured heirloom for next generations. The Navitimer Ref. 806 1959 Re-Edition is proof of Breitling’s unwavering devotion to quality in watchmaking and its long-lasting history.
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