Breitling Chronomat Chronograph B01 automatic 42 mm Full Set 2022

A legendary chronograph

In 1984, Breitling's hundredth anniversary was fast approaching, and the president at the time, Ernest Schneider, wanted to mark this memorable occasion! Indeed, since its beginnings, the brand has been known for its chronographs that have served as industry benchmarks. Breitling timepieces were coveted by sports enthusiasts, athletes and aviation pioneers. The brand never ceased to rethink and optimize its watches, creating numerous patents, some of which are still in use today. It was therefore necessary to launch a new watch that would revolutionize the industry and bring the mechanical chronograph back to center stage, proving that it is still capable of attracting a casual and trendy clientele.

It's worth recalling that, at the time, the trend was for flat watches giving only the time, and mainly powered by quartz movements. By launching an imposing mechanical chronograph, Ernest Schneider made a bold decision. The watch had to embody the brand's philosophy to perfection. It was decided to take the Frecce Tricolori chronograph as the perfect starting point. It was a resounding success: from sportsmen to businessmen, from actors to jet-setters, everyone wore the Chronomat and appreciated its sporty-chic look, which really set it apart from the competition at the time. Its iconic design is summed up in three features: its removable riders designed to protect the glass from impact, a sleek, uncluttered case and the iconic "Rouleaux" bracelet!

The evolution of the Chronomat

The Chronomat continues to be produced and has since undergone several aesthetic and technical evolutions. Reinforcing its position as a cornerstone within the Breitling collection, in 2009 it also became the first Breitling watch to be equipped with the in-house Manufacture Breitling Calibre 01. In 2020, the Chronomat collection was reinvented for a new era while retaining the design codes characteristic of the original. With the return of the iconic "Rouleaux" bracelet, the Chronomat is the perfect watch for all activities. It's precisely a model from this latest evolution that we present to you today in this 10h10 episode!

Let's get to know each other

This Super Chronomat B01 features a 44mm-diameter stainless steel case, with a dial featuring contrasting black counters. Its iconic design remains true to the original model, with a steel bezel offering interchangeable jumpers, so as to be used for the time counting and countdown function. This model is adorned with the "Rouleaux" bracelet closed by a folding clasp, the perfect balance between robustness and elegance.

Finally, this model is powered by the B01 caliber, visible through the sapphire caseback. This is the first chronograph movement entirely developed and manufactured by Breitling. Since its creation, it has been considered by experts and enthusiasts alike as one of the most sophisticated mechanical movements. It features a power reserve of over 70 hours, a column wheel to control the three chronograph functions: start, stop and reset. This movement also incorporates other innovative features, such as a patented self-centering system and a chronograph heart to reset the mechanism to zero. And like all Breitling watches, it is COSC-certified.

The package

This Breitling watch is in excellent condition. This Chronomat will be delivered to you Full Set with its case and all its documents. Sold in 2022, this model benefits from a Breitling warranty until 2027! As an Official Breitling Dealer, Lepage certifies the authenticity of this watch.