Precision, durable, historical, versatile, iconic
Imagine soaring above the earth, suspended in a capsule of adventure, tracing the vast curve of the globe. On March 21, 1999, Bertrand Piccard and Brian Jones did just that, becoming the first to circumnavigate the world nonstop in a balloon. Their journey spanned 45,633 kilometers over 19 days, 21 hours, and 47 minutes, landing them in the heart of the Egyptian desert.
To commemorate the 25th anniversary of this extraordinary feat, Breitling has unveiled the Aerospace B70 Orbiter. This watch is more than just a timepiece; it's a living piece of history, a tribute to those with an unquenchable thirst for adventure.
The first thing you'll notice is the vibrant orange dial, a nod to the color of the original capsule. This bold face is complemented by the mission logo, a constant reminder of that daring journey. The watch comes with a titanium bracelet or a black rubber strap, catering to both the classic and the rugged adventurer. The titanium case, selected for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, houses the heart of this marvel: the COSC-certified Breitling Manufacture Caliber B70.
This is no ordinary movement. The SuperQuartz™ inside is ten times more accurate than standard quartz, a necessity for those who live by the second. It powers an array of functions: a 1/100th of a second chronograph for precise timing, a countdown timer, a second timezone, two alarms, and a perpetual calendar that won't need adjusting until the end of time. And for those who crave a deeper connection to history, a segment of the original balloon is visible through the open caseback, a tangible link to that legendary voyage.
The watch's dimensions are thoughtfully designed. At 43 mm in diameter and 12.9 mm in thickness, it's substantial yet comfortable. The titanium construction ensures it's robust without weighing you down, tipping the scales at just 153 grams.
This is not just a watch for telling time; it's for telling stories. Each glance at the dial brings to mind the spirit of exploration, the courage to venture into the unknown. The Aerospace B70 Orbiter isn't merely an accessory; it's a badge of honor for those who dare to dream big and chase those dreams no matter how high they soar.
Pros:
- Historical Significance: Contains a segment of the original balloon from the first nonstop circumnavigation of the globe, making it a unique collector's item.
- High Accuracy: Powered by the COSC-certified Breitling Manufacture Caliber B70 SuperQuartz™, which is ten times more accurate than standard quartz movements.
- Durability: The titanium case offers a superior strength-to-weight ratio, ensuring robustness without adding unnecessary weight.
- Versatility: Features a range of functions including a 1/100th of a second chronograph, countdown timer, second timezone, two alarms, and a perpetual calendar.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The vibrant orange dial and mission logo provide a visually striking design, complemented by options for a titanium bracelet or black rubber strap.
- Limited Edition Appeal: As a commemorative piece, it holds significant value for collectors and enthusiasts of aviation history.
- Moderate Price for a Luxury Watch: At $4,900, it offers a reasonable price point for a watch with such advanced features and historical significance.
Cons:
- Price: Although reasonable for a luxury watch, $4,900 is still a significant investment and may not be accessible to everyone.
- Complexity: The multitude of functions may be overwhelming for users who prefer a simpler timepiece.
- Battery Life: With an approximate battery life of 2 years, it may require more frequent battery changes compared to mechanical watches.
- Size: At 43 mm in diameter and 12.9 mm in thickness, it may not be suitable for those with smaller wrists or who prefer a more understated watch.
- Weight: Although lightweight for a titanium watch, the overall weight of 153 grams might still be noticeable for some wearers.
- Specialized Design: The bold orange dial and unique design elements may not appeal to those seeking a more traditional or versatile look.
$4,900