watchuseek breitling top time | Breitling b20 forum

The Breitling Top Time, a chronograph originally aimed at young professionals with a penchant for action, has enjoyed a remarkable resurgence in popularity in recent years. This resurgence is fueled, in part, by active communities like Watchuseek, where enthusiasts dissect every detail, share restoration tips, and celebrate the unique charm of this vintage timepiece. Within these forums, certain Top Time configurations hold a special place, and the model featuring a 45-minute subdial at 3 o'clock and a seconds subdial at 9 o'clock is often considered a particularly desirable variant. This article will delve deep into this specific Top Time layout, exploring its history, design, movement options, market value, and the vibrant community surrounding it, particularly on platforms like Watchuseek. We'll also touch upon practical considerations such as strap sizes and delve into related Breitling topics.

A Brief History of the Breitling Top Time

Launched in the 1960s, the Breitling Top Time was conceived as a stylish and functional chronograph for a younger demographic. It was a departure from Breitling's typically more technical and aviation-focused designs. The name itself, "Top Time," suggested a focus on speed, efficiency, and a modern lifestyle. The original Top Time models were characterized by their clean, uncluttered dials, often featuring contrasting sub-dials and a variety of color schemes. This was an era of bold design and a desire for watches that could keep pace with a fast-moving world.

The Top Time quickly gained popularity, even making a cameo appearance on the wrist of James Bond in the 1965 film *Thunderball*. In the movie, the watch was modified by Q Branch to include a Geiger counter, further cementing its association with adventure and intrigue.

The Allure of the 45-Minute/9-O'Clock Configuration

While the Top Time was produced with various subdial layouts, the configuration with a 45-minute totalizer at 3 o'clock and a running seconds subdial at 9 o'clock holds a special appeal for collectors. This layout is often considered aesthetically balanced and visually engaging.

* Visual Harmony: The placement of the subdials creates a near-symmetrical appearance across the dial, providing a sense of visual harmony. The horizontal arrangement is pleasing to the eye and contributes to the overall balanced design.

* Functional Readability: The 45-minute totalizer is particularly useful for timing events that fall within that duration, making it a practical tool for various activities, from timing races to measuring cooking times.

* Rarity and Collectibility: While not the rarest Top Time configuration, this specific layout is less common than some others, making it more sought after by collectors. Scarcity often drives up desirability and value in the vintage watch market.

Movement Options: Valjoux and Venus

The Breitling Top Time wasn't powered by a single movement. Instead, Breitling utilized a range of calibers, primarily from Valjoux and Venus, depending on the specific model and production year. Understanding the movement within your Top Time is crucial for its maintenance and valuation.

* Valjoux 7730: This is perhaps the most common movement found in Top Time models with the 45-minute/9-o'clock layout. The Valjoux 7730 is a robust and reliable manual-winding chronograph movement. It is known for its durability and ease of servicing, making it a popular choice among watchmakers.

* Venus 188: Some Top Time models also used the Venus 188 movement, another respected manual-winding chronograph caliber. The Venus 188 is similar in design to the Valjoux 7730 and offers comparable performance.

Identifying the movement in your Top Time typically requires opening the case back, which is best left to a qualified watchmaker. However, the presence of a 45-minute totalizer and the 9-o'clock seconds subdial strongly suggests one of these two calibers.

Watchuseek: A Hub for Top Time Enthusiasts

The Watchuseek Breitling forum is a treasure trove of information and community for Top Time owners and enthusiasts. It's a place where you can:

* Share Photos and Stories: Post pictures of your Top Time, share your experiences with the watch, and connect with others who appreciate its unique charm.watchuseek breitling top time

* Seek Expert Advice: Ask questions about your Top Time, whether it's about its history, movement, value, or maintenance. Experienced collectors and watchmakers are often active on the forum and can provide valuable insights.

* Buy and Sell: The Watchuseek sales forum can be a good place to buy or sell a Top Time, although it's essential to do your due diligence and research the seller before making a purchase.

* Discuss Strap Options: The forum is a great resource for finding the perfect strap for your Top Time. Members often share their experiences with different types of straps, including leather, NATO, and metal bracelets.

Breitling Watch Strap Sizes: Finding the Perfect Fit

The lug width of a Breitling Top Time typically falls within the 20mm range, but it's always best to measure the lug width of your specific watch to ensure a perfect fit. The strap size is crucial not only for aesthetics but also for comfort and security.