vintage 1956 breitling navitimer 806 | Breitling Navitimer 806 for sale

The Breitling Navitimer 806. Just the name evokes a sense of vintage charm, precision engineering, and a deep connection to the golden age of aviation. Introduced in 1954, the Navitimer quickly became the wristwatch of choice for pilots around the world, thanks to its ingenious slide rule bezel that allowed for complex flight calculations. The 1956 Breitling Navitimer 806, in particular, holds a special place in the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts, representing a pivotal year in the model's evolution and solidifying its status as a true horological icon.

This article delves into the fascinating world of the vintage 1956 Breitling Navitimer 806, exploring its history, design features, collectibility, and the factors influencing its value. We will navigate the nuances of identifying genuine examples, understanding serial numbers, and providing insights into the vibrant community surrounding this legendary timepiece. Whether you're a seasoned collector, a budding enthusiast, or simply curious about this remarkable watch, this comprehensive guide aims to provide a thorough understanding of the 1956 Navitimer 806.

A Brief History: From Aviation Tool to Horological Icon

The Navitimer's origins lie in Breitling's long-standing association with aviation. Willy Breitling, the grandson of the company's founder, recognized the need for a wristwatch that could aid pilots in performing essential calculations during flight. The solution was the Navitimer, a chronograph featuring a rotating slide rule bezel that allowed pilots to calculate airspeed, flight time, distance, fuel consumption, and even convert nautical miles to statute miles.

Prior to the Navitimer, Breitling had already established itself as a leader in chronograph technology, notably with the introduction of the Chronomat in 1942, which also featured a slide rule bezel. However, the Navitimer took this concept to new heights, integrating the slide rule more seamlessly into the watch's design and focusing specifically on the needs of aviators.

The 1956 Navitimer 806 represents a significant point in the model's history. By this time, the Navitimer had already gained widespread recognition among pilots, and the 806 reference became synonymous with the early, highly desirable iterations of the watch. It was a time of refinement and consolidation of the Navitimer's design, laying the groundwork for its continued success in the decades to come.

Design and Features: A Masterpiece of Functional Elegance

The 1956 Breitling Navitimer 806 is characterized by its distinctive and highly functional design. Here's a breakdown of its key features:

* Case: Typically made of stainless steel, the case of the 806 is relatively compact, usually around 40-41mm in diameter. This size was considered standard for chronographs of the era and is appreciated today for its comfortable wearability. The case features a rotating bezel with a slide rule scale, a crucial element for aviation calculations. The lugs are usually straight and relatively thin, contributing to the watch's overall elegance.

* Dial: The dial is perhaps the most recognizable feature of the Navitimer. It's typically black with contrasting white or cream-colored sub-dials for the chronograph functions (seconds, minutes, and hours). The slide rule scale is printed around the perimeter of the dial, with markings for various calculations. The hour markers are often luminous, and the hands are designed for optimal readability. One of the defining characteristics of the early 806 models, including those from 1956, is the "AOPA" logo prominently displayed at the 12 o'clock position. This logo signifies the watch's endorsement by the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, further solidifying its connection to the aviation community.

* Bezel: The rotating bezel is the heart of the Navitimer's functionality. It's bi-directional and rotates smoothly, allowing the user to align the slide rule scales for various calculations. The bezel is typically made of stainless steel and features a serrated edge for easy grip.

* Movement: The 1956 Navitimer 806 is powered by the Venus 178 manual-winding chronograph movement. This movement is highly regarded for its reliability and robustness. It features a column-wheel chronograph mechanism, which provides a smoother and more precise operation compared to cam-actuated chronographs. The Venus 178 is a workhorse movement that has proven its durability over decades of use.

* Crystal: The crystal is typically made of acrylic (Plexiglas), which was the standard material for watch crystals during the 1950s. Acrylic crystals are prone to scratches but can be easily polished.vintage 1956 breitling navitimer 806

The Allure of the "AOPA" Dial: A Symbol of Aviation Heritage