BREITLING CHRONOMAT B01 CHRONOGRAPH 44
Watch giants Breitling released some incredible new models at this years’ Baselworld but one redesign that we were not expecting to see was the new Breitling Chronomat B01 Chronograph 44. It’s been a solid four or five years since the brand made any obvious changes to their Chronomat collection, instead concentrating on reinterpreting their Navitimer and Superocean designs. But as we were sat in the Breitling meeting room in Basel, we were more than delighted to see a duo of brand new Chronomat models presented in their 2018 collection.
One of the biggest changes you will notice in the Breitling Chronomat B01 Chronograph 44 watches is their use of brushed stainless steel rather than the standard polish found in most Chronomat models. The subdued effect of the case suits the masculine style so much more and rather than feeling like a fancy piece of jewellery, the Breitling Chronomat B01 Chronograph 44 feels like a true instrument with an impressive range of functions. The case measures to 44mm in diameter and 16.95mm in thickness, a nice combination for the average size wrist providing a bold look without feeling too bulky.
Another change you may notice in the Breitling Chronomat B01 Chronograph 44 watches is the resize of the 60 minute unidirectional bezel. The bezel has been slimmed slightly and they have decided not to add the large Arabic numerals usually engraved around the edge. Although it’s a subtle change, it makes a huge difference in the aesthetic and gives the design a much smarter and more sophisticated appeal.
The biggest draw for these Breitling Chronomat B01 Chronograph 44 watches is of course the use of the B01 movement. This exquisite calibre has sparked a lot of conversation over the past year and has become an attraction to many watch collectors since Tudor announced they would be using the very same movement within their Heritage Black Bay chronographs. The movement is really quite impressive with 47 jewels, 28,800 vph and a power reserve of 70 hours.
The dial has also been given a smart, contemporary redesign with bold luminous indices and hands, an elusive date feature between 4 and 5 o clock and black coloured chronograph dials that contrast nicely against the blue or grey dial. Matching the silver accents of the dial, both Breitling Chronomat B01 Chronograph 44 watches are fitted with the brand’s stainless steel Pilot bracelet with folding style clasp.
It is safe to say that the new Breitling Chronomat B01 Chronograph 44 watches were a welcome surprise and we expect them to be easy sellers over the next year. Retailing at £6,500, both models are available to order now. For more information on these watches and where to order your own,