The Breitling Navitimer has always been a watch you can spot from across the room. That circular slide rule bezel, the intricate yet balanced dial – it’s a design that has stood the test of time. Now, Breitling has taken things up a notch with the new Navitimer B19 Perpetual Calendar Chronograph, packing one of the most prestigious complications in watchmaking into their flagship model without sacrificing its tool-watch soul.
Last year, Breitling introduced their in-house B19 perpetual calendar chronograph movement, but only in solid gold models with eye-watering $60K price tags. This time, they’re bringing that same high-end horology to a stainless steel version with a platinum bezel for less than half the price. At $29,000 on an alligator strap or $29,500 on a steel bracelet, it’s still an investment, but compared to the alternatives from Patek Philippe or Vacheron Constantin – watches that easily hit six figures – it’s one of the most accessible perpetual calendar chronographs from a major Swiss brand.
And let’s talk about that dial. The ice-blue sunburst finish looks incredible in photos, shifting between pale blue and silver depending on the light. Somehow, Breitling has managed to keep the perpetual calendar function readable, which is no small feat given how much information is packed onto the dial. The three subdials multitask, displaying both the calendar and chronograph functions, while the moonphase at 12 o’clock adds just the right amount of elegance to an otherwise highly technical watch.
For decades, perpetual calendar chronographs have been exclusive to the likes of Patek Philippe, A. Lange & Söhne, and Vacheron Constantin – watches that most enthusiasts could only dream of owning. Smaller independents have offered slightly more affordable options, but nothing quite as wearable or widely available. Breitling stepping into this space is a big deal. They’ve taken a complication typically reserved for dress watches and built it into one of the most recognizable pilot’s watches ever. It’s like showing up to a black-tie event in a perfectly tailored denim suit – unexpected, but it works.
Perpetual calendars can be a pain to reset if they stop running, but Breitling has that covered too. The watch boasts a 96-hour power reserve, meaning it can sit unworn for four days before needing any adjustments. And when it does need tweaking, the discreet corrector pushers on the case make the process simple. At 43mm wide and just under 15mm thick, it’s not a small watch, but the Navitimer has always had a way of feeling just right on the wrist, and this one seems to follow suit.
Now available through Breitling boutiques and authorized dealers, the Navitimer B19 Perpetual Calendar Chronograph is an exciting evolution of a classic. It stays true to what makes the Navitimer great while adding a serious dose of high-end watchmaking. For those who love mechanical complexity but don’t want to give up everyday wearability, this might just be the perfect blend of both.
