Breitling Watches
Renowned for exceptional design and precision, Breitling watches are high performance timepieces that are devoted to meeting the demands of aviation timekeeping. Extremely highly-regarded by enthusiasts and collectors alike, these exquisite timepieces are ideal as the perfect gift or to update your collection.
The History of Breitling Watches
Throughout its illustrious history, Breitling has built a solid reputation for its precise pilot watches and chronometers. Their traditionally rugged and technically-focused designs have withstood the test of time, creating some of the most highly-sought after timepieces in the market. While the brand may have modest roots, it has transformed itself into a true force in the luxury watch world.
Breitling was established in the Jura mountains of Switzerland in 1884. Its founder, Leon Breitling, was obsessed with aviation and wanted to help pilots obtain an easy-to-use timer that freed up their hands for the tricky process of takeoff. After a few short years, with the brand specialising in precision watches for sports, science, and industrial purposes, it grew out of its modest home and relocated to La Chaux de Fonds. This was regarded as the centre of Swiss watchmaking excellence at the time.
In 1915, Breitling launched its first chronograph wristwatch to immediate success. The brand continued to hone its efforts on producing pilots’ watches and in 1923, it released another development: the first independent chronograph push piece. This extremely useful advancement proved to be useful in calculating flight times, as well as timing sports competitions. Over the coming years, Breitling also secured partnerships with the United States Army and British Royal Air Force.
The year 1952 saw the launch of the Navitimer, one of the Breitling’s most popular collections. Also known as the “super chronograph”, it featured an innovative “navigation computer” that enabled the timepiece to handle the calculations needed to construct a flight plan.
The company made its next important advancement in 1969, when it participated in a top-secret endeavour to develop the world’s first self-winding chronograph movement. This was not just a monumental moment for Breitling and the other brands that were involved, but also for the entire watchmaking industry as a whole.
Around 15 years later, the company unveiled a timepiece that truly solidified its position in watchmaking history. This came in the form of the groundbreaking Chronomat, which featured an iconic bezel design and rider tabs. To this day, this timepiece remains one of the brand’s most sought-after watches.
In 1995, Breitling introduced the Emergency, which boasted a built-in micro transmitter that was capable of broadcasting on the 121.5 MHz distress frequency. The signal could be picked up within a range of 90 nautical miles by aircraft that are flying up to 20,000 feet. Since its introduction, this essential timepiece has definitely saved lives.
Another meaningful collection in the Breitling catalogue is Breitling for Bentley, an initiative that started in 2002 when the watchmaker was asked to design the onboard clock for the Bentley Continental GT. The following year, Breitling launched the special edition Bentley Le Mans to commemorate Bentley’s victory at the 2003 Le Mans race. This exciting partnership created many exquisite timepieces, such as the Breitling Bentley 6.75 A44362, and the Bentley GMT A47362. Additional subsets were also launched, including the Bentley Barnato and Bentley Flying B series.
The Breitling brand has consistently kept up with the latest innovations in watchmaking. In 2009, they launched their most precise self-winding chronograph movement, and debuted their first smartwatch – the B55 Connected. Their smartwatch line was extended in 2018 with the Exospace B55 Yachting.
Second-Hand Breitling Watches from Blowers Jewellers
If you are looking for pre-owned Breitling watches, Blowers Jewellers is here to help. We have amassed decades of experience in helping our clients find their ideal luxury wristwatch, meaning we are perfectly placed to do the same for you.
All of our second hand Breitling watches are available to view at our boutique in Kingston Upon Hull, or by appointment at our office in London’s Mayfair. Each stunning watch has been hand-chosen by our expert team and comes with a warranty that lasts from 12 months to five years.
Blowers Jewellers is even able to help if you are looking to part with your Breitling watch. We offer a generous part-exchange service and can even purchase your timepiece outright if you would prefer. If this is of interest, simply send us the details of your watch and we will provide you with what we believe is the best possible price within 48 hours.
We have built a strong reputation for the quality of our service and advice. Our team believes that choosing our ideal item of luxury jewellery should be a special experience, which is why we will take the time to understand your needs and offer our expert guidance throughout the entire process.
For more information about how Blowers Jewellers can help you source the best second hand Breitling watches, contact a member of our team today or visit us in person.