vintage breitling chronomatic | Breitling chronometre automatic diamond bezel

The Breitling Chronomatic. Just the name evokes images of daring pilots, mid-century cool, and a groundbreaking innovation in the world of horology. More than just a vintage watch, the Chronomatic represents a pivotal moment in the history of automatic chronographs, a testament to the ingenuity and collaborative spirit that defined the late 1960s watchmaking landscape. Today, these timepieces are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts, offering a tangible connection to a golden age of watch design and engineering. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just beginning your journey into the world of vintage Breitling, understanding the Chronomatic is essential. And, as many discover, the best deals for Breitling Chronomat Vintage can often be found on platforms like eBay.com, where a great online selection awaits, often with the added benefits of fast and free shipping.

This article delves deep into the world of the vintage Breitling Chronomatic, exploring its history, its significance, its various models, and the factors that influence its value. We'll cover everything from the movement that powered it to the nuances that differentiate one Chronomatic from another. And, of course, we'll touch upon the practicalities of finding and acquiring one of these iconic timepieces.

The Race to Automatic Chronograph: A Brief History

The late 1960s witnessed a fierce race among watch manufacturers to develop the first automatic chronograph. For decades, chronographs had been manually wound, requiring the user to wind the watch daily. The introduction of automatic winding promised to revolutionize the chronograph, offering greater convenience and potentially improved accuracy. Several consortia were vying for the title, including Zenith with their El Primero, Seiko with their 6139, and a collaborative effort spearheaded by Heuer, Breitling, Hamilton-Buren, and Dubois-Depraz. This last group, often referred to as the "Chronomatic Group," ultimately succeeded in bringing their Caliber 11 movement to market in 1969.vintage breitling chronomatic

The Birth of the Caliber 11 and the Chronomatic

The Caliber 11 was a revolutionary movement for several reasons. Firstly, it was one of the first automatic chronographs ever produced. Secondly, it featured a modular construction, with the chronograph module attached to a base movement. This allowed for greater flexibility in design and production. Thirdly, it featured a micro-rotor, a smaller rotor integrated into the movement's architecture. This design allowed for a thinner profile compared to a full-size rotor.

The name "Chronomatic" itself is a portmanteau of "chronograph" and "automatic," a clear indication of the groundbreaking nature of the movement. Breitling, along with its partners, released watches housing the Caliber 11, each with its own unique design and personality. The Chronomatic became synonymous with this innovative movement and the watches that housed it.

Breitling's Chronomatic Offerings: A Diverse Range of Styles

Breitling utilized the Chronomatic movement in a variety of models, each catering to different tastes and preferences. Some of the most iconic Chronomatic models include:

* Breitling Navitimer Chronomatic: This model combined the functionality of the Navitimer slide rule with the convenience of an automatic chronograph. It's perhaps the most recognizable and highly sought-after Chronomatic model. Its busy dial, circular slide rule, and distinctive case make it instantly recognizable. The Navitimer Chronomatic is considered by many to be the pinnacle of the Chronomatic line.

* Breitling Chrono-Matic: This was a more general designation used for a range of models featuring the Caliber 11 or its successors. These watches came in various case shapes, dial colors, and bracelet options.

* Breitling Chrono-Matic 2111: This model featured a tonneau-shaped case and a distinctive dial layout. It's a less common but still highly desirable Chronomatic variant.

* Breitling Chrono-Matic 2112: Similar to the 2111, this model also sported a tonneau case but with subtle differences in dial design.

* Breitling Chrono-Matic 2114: Known for its more angular case design, the 2114 offered a different aesthetic compared to the more rounded models.

These are just a few examples of the diverse range of Breitling Chronomatic models. Each model has its own unique characteristics and appeal, making the world of Chronomatics a fascinating one to explore.

Identifying a Genuine Vintage Breitling Chronomatic

Before investing in a vintage Breitling Chronomatic, it's crucial to verify its authenticity. Here are some key factors to consider:

* Movement: The movement should be either a Caliber 11, Caliber 12, Caliber 14, or Caliber 15. These were the automatic chronograph movements used in Breitling Chronomatics. Check for the correct markings and engravings. Be wary of watches with generic or incorrect movements.

* Case: The case should be consistent with the specific model you're interested in. Research the correct case shape, dimensions, and markings for that model. Pay close attention to the case back markings, which should include the Breitling logo, model number, and serial number.