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What Inspired the Chronomat Design?

Syd

Renowned Member
3/7/06
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As we all know, the Chronomat is the reference standard among all the Breitling models. Originally created to equip the famous Freece Tricolori flight team, it retains her unique style characterized by its rotating rider-tab and graduated unit bezel, domed-shaped push buttons & crown, dial instrumentation, and the famous slanted flip lock clasp. All of which are inspired from aviation, as we shall see some comparison shots ...

Dome shaped push buttons and crown inspired by prop hubs:

b1domesyq1.jpg



Slanted flip lock clasp inspired by a plane rudder:

b3rudderln0.jpg



Graduated unit bezel inspired by prop engine (front view as pictured):

b2bezelrl5.jpg



Profiled watch case inspired by wingspan:

b5spansu2.jpg



And lastly, the busy dial inspired by cockpit instrumentation:

b4instwc5.jpg
 

supermanx

I'm Pretty Popular
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27/6/06
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Nice comparisions, something I'm surprised we haven't seen from the resident breitling nut by-tor.
 

Watchnuts2

Known Member
25/7/11
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Thanks for posting. I'm a big airplane and Breitling fan. Now I know why these watches are for me.
 

Syd

Renowned Member
3/7/06
694
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chronomatvitesse5rr.jpg


Still my favorite Breitling model up to this day! The Breitling Chronomat Vitesse in Stainless Steel/ Blue Dial.
Any dealer wanna rep this particular Vitesse model (40mm)? I think you'd be surprised with the waiting line!
 

beachcat

Known Member
30/7/09
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Is this the best rep Breitling available ?
Had a BCE from a couple years ago and it was a little clunky and uncomfortable to wear.

Thanks
 

Bombardier

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12/11/20
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I don’t know what it it’s but it’s pity they changed the chronometer line completely before the last beautiful
collection is being repped properly with at least decorated b01 movement, Breitling is like Toyota Corolla, they change the design completely in every release
 

lintdrummer

Horology Curious
29/4/21
14
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As someone who works in the aviation industry I would love to see the pics on this thread, any chance the OP can re-upload?