The Breitling Navitimer. The name itself conjures images of daring pilots, meticulously calculated flight plans, and the thrill of high-altitude adventure. This iconic timepiece, a descendant of the 1942 Breitling Chronomat, solidified its place in horological history not just for its stunning aesthetics but for its unparalleled functionality. At the heart of this legacy lies the Breitling Navitimer Ref. 806, a watch that embodies the spirit of innovation and enduring style. This article delves into the fascinating world of the Ref. 806, exploring its history, its value in the collector's market, its availability, and the enduring appeal of its re-editions.
From Chronomat to Navitimer: A Legacy Forged in the Skies
The story of the Navitimer Ref. 806 begins not with itself, but with its illustrious predecessor, the Breitling Chronomat. Introduced in 1942, the Chronomat boasted a revolutionary slide rule bezel, a tool that allowed pilots to perform essential calculations mid-flight, such as converting miles to kilometers, calculating fuel consumption, and determining airspeed. This ingenious feature was a game-changer, offering pilots a level of practical functionality never before seen in a wristwatch.
Recognizing the immense potential of this slide rule bezel, Breitling sought to refine and enhance its design. This quest for improvement culminated in 1952 with the birth of the Navitimer – a contraction of “navigation” and “timer.” The Navitimer, in its various iterations, would become synonymous with aviation and precision timekeeping, establishing itself as one of the most recognizable and sought-after pilot’s watches ever created.
The Ref. 806 represents a pivotal moment in the Navitimer’s evolution. It marked the refinement of the design elements that would define the watch's enduring appeal. While specific details about the initial production run and the exact number of Ref. 806 watches produced remain somewhat elusive, its importance within the Navitimer lineage is undeniable. It stands as a crucial bridge between the early Navitimers and the later, more widely recognized references that followed. The Ref. 806 incorporated the key features that would characterize the Navitimer: the iconic bidirectional rotating bezel with its flight computer slide rule, the easily legible dial with its contrasting hands and markers, and the robust, reliable movement powering it all.
Breitling Navitimer 806 Vintage: A Collector's Dream
The Breitling Navitimer Ref. 806 vintage models represent a truly exclusive piece of horological history. Their rarity, coupled with their impeccable design and historical significance, has propelled them to the top tier of collectible watches. Finding a well-preserved Ref. 806 in pristine condition is a testament to both luck and diligent searching. These watches are highly sought after by serious collectors, and their value has steadily increased over the years, reflecting their historical importance and limited availability.
The condition of a vintage Ref. 806 significantly impacts its value. Factors such as the dial's condition (original lume, lack of damage), the case's preservation (absence of scratches or significant wear), and the originality of the components (movement, hands, crown) all play a crucial role in determining its worth. Authenticity is paramount; the market is unfortunately susceptible to counterfeits, so careful vetting by a reputable expert is essential before purchasing any vintage Navitimer.
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