Breitling Aviation Watches | Breitling Pilot Watches

How to Choose Your Breitling Aviation Watch?

Three criteria guide your choice: complication, case size and finishing.

On complication, the Navitimer Automatic 41 is the three-hand version, understated, versatile, from €8,150. The Navitimer Automatic GMT 41 adds a permanent second time zone via a dedicated hand, ideal for frequent travellers, from €6,000. The Navitimer B01 Chronograph (available in 41, 43 and 46 mm) carries the manufacture B01 calibre: column-wheel chronograph, COSC-certified, 70 h power reserve. It is the technical flagship of the aviation line.

On size, the 41 mm is the versatile format, readable, comfortable, suited to average wrists. The 43 mm is the Navitimer's historical size, the most representative of the watch's DNA, and the most requested in-store. The 46 mm is for those who want maximum wrist presence or outstanding chronograph legibility.

On finishing, steel with a steel or alligator-leather strap is the reference choice. Certain Navitimer B01 43 models are offered in 18-carat red gold on alligator strap for an exceptional, high-character version.

Which Breitling Aviation Watch for Which Profile?

Pilot / aviation enthusiast → Navitimer B01 Chronograph 43 steel — the historic reference, manufacture calibre, fully functional slide rule
Clean daily wear with aviation spirit → Navitimer Automatic 41 steel — three hands, B20 calibre, discreet and balanced
Frequent traveller → Navitimer Automatic GMT 41 steel — permanent second time zone, the most accessible in the line
Large format / bold statement → Navitimer B01 Chronograph 46 steel — generous dial, outstanding chronograph readability
Exceptional piece / luxury gift → Navitimer B01 Chronograph 43 red gold alligator — high-end finishing, strong character

Auberi's take: In-store, the Navitimer B01 Chronograph 43 in steel is consistently the model that draws the most admiration, its slide rule, manufacture calibre visible through the sapphire case back, and history-laden dial make it the most compelling Breitling aviation watch on the wrist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Navitimer's circular slide rule actually do?

The slide rule integrated into the Navitimer's bezel since 1952 is an aerial navigation instrument: it calculates speed, distance, fuel consumption and unit conversions without any additional tool. On current models it remains fully functional — not a decorative element, but an operational instrument inherited from civil and military aviation.

What is the difference between the Navitimer Automatic and the B01 Chronograph?

The Navitimer Automatic carries the B20 calibre — a COSC-certified three-hand automatic movement, understated and versatile. The Navitimer B01 Chronograph is fitted with the manufacture B01 calibre — column-wheel chronograph, COSC-certified, 70 h power reserve. The B01 is thicker, more complex and more expensive; the Navitimer Automatic is the most accessible and discreet version in the aviation line.

Is the Navitimer water-resistant?

The Navitimer is water-resistant to 30 metres (3 bar) — it withstands splashes, rain and normal daily use, but is not designed for swimming or diving. It is an instrument watch built for aviation, where legibility and lightness take precedence over water resistance. For a more water-resistant Breitling, the Avenger Automatic offers 300 m of protection.

Can I try the Navitimer at an Auberi boutique?

Yes, our Cannes and Nice boutiques stock the main Navitimer references for you to try — in 41 and 43 mm, steel and red gold, Automatic and B01 Chronograph. Our advisors will help you compare sizes and complications on your wrist, and walk you through how the slide rule works — no appointment needed.

Explore also: Breitling Avenger Chronograph · Breitling Chronomat Automatic · Breitling Superocean Heritage Automatic