The Breitling watches worth knowing: Navitimer, Chronomat and Superocean
Léon Breitling founded the house in Saint-Imier, Switzerland, in 1884, and it built its reputation on chronographs and instruments for aviation. That history still shapes the collection. You can read more about the house on our Breitling brand page.
- Navitimer: the pilot's chronograph. Its circular slide rule bezel was designed for flight calculations, and the dense, highly detailed dial is unmistakable. It suits someone who likes engineering and does not mind a busy face.
- Chronomat: the sporty all-rounder. It is recognisable by the rider tabs on the bezel and the rounded rouleaux bracelet. It works well for someone who wants one watch for the office, the weekend and the braai.
- Superocean: the dive watch, with a rotating bezel and a bold, clean dial. It is a natural fit for someone who lives near the coast or spends holidays in the water.
- Premier and Avenger: the Premier is the more restrained, dressier option. The Avenger leans towards robust, tool-watch proportions.
How to choose a Breitling for the person you have in mind
Begin with the watch they already wear most. If it is a large sports watch, a Chronomat or Superocean will feel familiar. If they favour slimmer pieces, look at the Premier or a smaller Navitimer.
Size. Breitling is known for generous cases, but several lines come in more compact sizes. Discreetly measure a watch they own across the case to get a reference point. A bracelet is easy to adjust by removing links, so wrist size matters less than case diameter.
Strap or bracelet. A steel bracelet is practical in a South African summer and suits daily wear. Leather is dressier but wears faster in heat and water.
Movement. Most Breitling pieces are automatic. The house also makes its own chronograph calibre, which collectors value.
If you are weighing up houses, our guide to Omega watches covers a similar mix of sport and heritage. For ideas beyond watches, see our gifts for him.
Breitling watch prices, budgeting and care
The price of a Breitling depends mainly on four things:
- Complication. A chronograph costs more than a time-and-date model.
- Case material. Steel is the starting point. Two-tone, titanium and gold cases each move the price up.
- Bracelet or strap. A metal bracelet usually costs more than leather or rubber.
- Limited editions and gem-setting.
As a broad guide, new Breitling watches generally start in the tens of thousands of rand and run well into six figures. Decide on the line and material first, then set your budget around them.
For care, rinse the watch in fresh water after the sea or the pool, and check that the crown is pushed or screwed in before swimming. Follow Breitling's own guidance on servicing intervals.
If you have a particular model, size or dial colour in mind, tell us and we will come back with options. You can also browse our wider watches guide.