vintage roman number breitling navitimer chronograph | Breitling serial number meaning

The Breitling Navitimer, a name synonymous with aviation and precision timing, holds a special place in the hearts of watch collectors worldwide. While many variations and iterations exist, the "Vintage Roman Number Breitling Navitimer Chronograph" commands a unique allure. Its distinctive Roman numeral hour markers, combined with the iconic slide rule bezel and chronograph functionality, create a timepiece that's both historically significant and aesthetically captivating. This article delves deep into the world of these vintage Navitimers, exploring their history, variations, how to identify them, and what makes them so desirable to collectors. We'll also touch upon crucial aspects like Breitling reference numbers, serial numbers, and their meaning, equipping you with the knowledge to navigate the exciting, yet sometimes complex, world of vintage Breitling collecting.

The Allure of the Roman Numeral Navitimer

The Navitimer, introduced in 1952, quickly became the official watch of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA). Its circular slide rule bezel allowed pilots to perform crucial calculations like airspeed, distance, fuel consumption, and rate of climb directly from their wrist. While early Navitimers featured Arabic numerals, certain variations, particularly those produced during the 1960s and 70s, incorporated Roman numerals. This design choice added a touch of elegance and sophistication to the already utilitarian nature of the watch, creating a unique aesthetic blend that appeals to collectors today.

The presence of Roman numerals signifies a particular era in Navitimer production and often indicates a specific model or reference number. These watches are considered less common than their Arabic numeral counterparts, contributing to their increased desirability and, consequently, their potentially higher value. The Roman numerals offer a visual departure from the overtly technical appearance of the standard Navitimer, making it a more versatile piece that can be worn in both casual and more formal settings.

Identifying a Vintage Roman Number Breitling Navitimer Chronograph

Identifying a genuine vintage Roman Number Breitling Navitimer Chronograph requires a keen eye and a thorough understanding of the model's characteristics. Several factors come into play, including the dial design, case material, movement type, and the all-important reference and serial numbers.vintage roman number breitling navitimer chronograph

* Dial Design: The most obvious identifier is, of course, the presence of Roman numerals. Examine the dial carefully for even spacing, correct font, and consistent application of the luminous material (if present). Fakes often have poorly executed numerals or inconsistencies in the lume. Pay close attention to the placement of the subdials (for the chronograph function) and the overall balance of the dial. The printing should be crisp and clear, without any signs of fading or smudging. Common subdial layouts include the traditional three-register configuration (seconds, minutes, hours) or the two-register layout found in some later models.

* Case Material and Construction: Vintage Navitimers were typically housed in stainless steel or gold-plated cases. The case should feel solid and well-constructed. Examine the case back for markings, including the Breitling logo, reference number, and serial number. The bezel should rotate smoothly and precisely. Pay attention to the lugs and their shape, as these can be subtle indicators of authenticity.

* Movement Type: The heart of any watch is its movement. Vintage Navitimers primarily used manually wound or automatic movements from Valjoux, Venus, and later, Lemania. The specific movement used will depend on the model and year of production. While examining the movement requires opening the case (which should be done by a qualified watchmaker), knowing the correct movement for a particular reference is crucial for verifying authenticity. A mismatched movement is a red flag.

* Reference and Serial Numbers: These are perhaps the most critical pieces of information for identifying and verifying a vintage Navitimer. These numbers provide a wealth of information about the watch's production date, model, and other specifications. Understanding how to interpret these numbers is essential for any serious collector.

Breitling Watch Reference Numbers: Deciphering the Code

Breitling reference numbers are alphanumeric codes that identify a specific model and its characteristics. These numbers are typically engraved on the case back, inside the case back, or on the movement. The format of the reference number can vary depending on the era of production, but generally, it contains information about the case material, movement type, and specific features of the watch.

* Early Reference Numbers (Pre-1960s): These were often simpler, consisting of a few digits. For example, early Navitimers might have reference numbers like "806" or "809."

* Later Reference Numbers (1960s onwards): These became more complex, incorporating letters and numbers. For instance, a reference number might look like "816.147" or "1806." The exact meaning of each digit and letter varies depending on the specific reference table, but they generally indicate:

* Case Material: Stainless steel, gold-plated, solid gold.

* Movement Type: Manual winding, automatic.

* Bezel Type: Specific bezel variations.

* Dial Color: Specific dial colors.

* Production Year (Sometimes): Some reference number systems include a digit indicating the year of production.

To accurately decipher a Breitling reference number, you'll need to consult reliable online resources, vintage Breitling catalogs, or consult with a Breitling expert. Many online forums and websites dedicated to vintage watches offer detailed information on decoding Breitling reference numbers.