Breitling, a name synonymous with precision and aviation heritage, boasts a range of iconic timepieces, each with its own unique character and functionality. Understanding the dials of a Breitling watch, however, goes beyond simply telling the time. The intricate arrangements of sub-dials, hands, and markings tell a story of horological expertise, reflecting the watch's purpose and the brand's rich history. This article will explore the various dial configurations found in Breitling watches, focusing particularly on the Navitimer and Chronomat lines, and delve into the meaning behind the often-complex displays. We'll also touch on the reference numbering system used to identify Breitling models and offer guidance on choosing the right Navitimer for you.
Breitling Reference Numbering System: A Key to Understanding Your Watch
Before diving into the specifics of dial configurations, it's crucial to understand Breitling's reference numbering system. Since approximately 1990, Breitling has employed a six-character alphanumeric code to identify its watches. This system provides essential information about the watch's movement and certification. While the exact breakdown can vary slightly depending on the model and year of production, the reference number generally indicates the caliber (the type of movement) and whether the watch is COSC-certified (Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres – Official Swiss Chronometer Testing Institute). This certification signifies that the movement has passed rigorous accuracy tests. Decoding this reference number is the first step in understanding the capabilities and specifications of your Breitling.
Breitling Dials Explained: Meaning and Functionality
Breitling dials are renowned for their functionality and legibility, reflecting the brand's commitment to precision and practicality. The complexity of the dial design varies considerably depending on the model. However, some common elements are consistently found across different Breitling watches.
* Main Time Display: This is the central feature of any watch dial, displaying the hours, minutes, and seconds. Breitling often employs highly legible hands and markers, ensuring ease of reading even in challenging conditions.
* Sub-dials (Chronograph Functions): Many Breitling watches, especially those in the Navitimer and Chronomat lines, feature sub-dials for chronograph functions. These sub-dials typically measure elapsed time in different increments:
* 30-minute counter: Measures elapsed time up to 30 minutes.
* 12-hour counter: Measures elapsed time up to 12 hours.
* Small seconds counter: Displays continuous seconds, independent of the chronograph function.
* Date Window: Many Breitling watches include a date window, typically positioned at 3 o'clock. This provides a practical calendar function.
* Slide Rule Bezel (Navitimer): The iconic feature of the Breitling Navitimer is its rotating slide rule bezel. This circular scale allows for complex calculations, originally designed for pilots to perform navigational computations quickly. The bezel's functionality is integral to the Navitimer's design and adds another layer of complexity to the dial's overall aesthetic. Understanding how to use the slide rule bezel adds another dimension to appreciating the watch's historical significance and practical utility.
* Tachymeter Scale: Some Breitling dials incorporate a tachymeter scale, usually printed around the perimeter of the dial. This scale allows the wearer to measure speed based on the time it takes to travel a known distance.
Breitling Navitimer vs. Chronomat: A Comparison of Dial Designs
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