Breitling Old Navitimer

Breitling Old Navitimer, the heritage pilots chronograph that still flies high

The Old Navitimer sits in a sweet spot. It delivers the classic Navitimer look enthusiasts love while adding enough modern practicality to make it a confident daily flyer. Think circular slide rule bezel, tri-register chronograph, and purposeful instrument vibes wrapped in a Swiss-made watch that feels as relevant on a flight plan as it does at a dinner reservation.

Where it fits in the Breitling universe

Within the broader Navitimer family, the Old Navitimer reads like a heritage chapter. It channels the pioneering spirit of the Navitimer Ref. 806, the aviation watch that helped define the pilots chronograph, but benefits from later manufacturing standards for reliability and comfort. Collectors use Old Navitimer as a shorthand for references that preserve traditional design language with cleaner modern construction, creating a popular niche in the pre-owned space.

Design identity, pure Navitimer DNA

The circular slide rule bezel is the star, enabling fuel, speed, and unit conversions without electronics. Around it, the dial is a tidy map of information: legible registers, crisp scales, and balanced layout that avoids clutter. Cases are typically stainless steel with sapphire crystal for clarity and durability. Pair it with leather for vintage Navitimer-adjacent warmth or a steel bracelet for a professional, flight-ready stance. Either way, it reads authentic Breitling.

Movements and why they matter

The Old Navitimer is a mechanical chronograph, most often automatic. Many references use Valjoux 7750 based calibers, valued for robustness, wide parts availability, and steady accuracy. The 7750 architecture provides a reliable chronograph and a satisfying pusher feel. Depending on era and reference, some are chronometer certified, which appeals to buyers seeking documented precision from a mechanical movement without turning the watch into a lab experiment.

Variations, sizes, and wearability

Model families within the Old Navitimer theme follow the classic pilot chronograph footprint that has presence without unnecessary bulk. Dials trend toward high contrast for legibility, with light registers on dark dials or the reverse, and lume is applied with practical intent. Up close it reads technical; from across the room it looks tidy and composed. Marketed historically as a men's watch, it is effectively a versatile, historically informed chronograph for any wrist.

Materials, bracelets, and day-to-day practicality

Stainless steel is the core proposition, suiting the tool-watch spirit and keeping finishing consistent across case and bracelet. Leather straps emphasize the vintage personality and pair well with business casual. Steel bracelets underscore the professional aviation angle and often command stronger interest on the second-hand market. Sapphire crystal resists scratches, and case finishing balances functional brushing with discreet polishing so it never feels out of place.

Functions and how owners use them

Beyond the chronograph, the slide rule bezel is the Old Navitimer’s party trick. It converts miles to kilometers, gallons to liters, and assists with time over distance, directly echoing why pilots embraced the original concept. Select references add a date for extra daily utility. For owners who enjoy using a mechanical tool, this lineup offers engaging, hands-on functionality that goes well beyond looks.

Popular references and what to look for

Two references come up often. The A13022 is a go-to Old Navitimer that captures period-correct styling with an automatic movement and signature slide rule bezel. The historic Navitimer Ref. 806 is not an Old Navitimer per se, but it is the spiritual blueprint for the line. When evaluating examples, condition, dial originality, and completeness of accessories typically drive desirability.

• A13022, classic Old Navitimer flavor with automatic movement.
• Ref. 806, the heritage model that inspires the design language.

Price positioning and value notes

Pre-owned Navitimer pricing varies with condition, service history, bracelet versus leather, and whether the watch is chronometer certified. Clean early examples and limited runs draw premiums. Steel on steel usually sits higher than steel on leather. Buyers focused on long-term value prioritize authentic documentation and recent service, while sellers see stronger results when box and papers are present. Market spreads tend to reflect these specifics more than broad swings.

Quick spec snapshot

• Type, pilots chronograph with circular slide rule bezel.
• Materials, stainless steel case, sapphire crystal, leather strap or steel bracelet.
• Movement, automatic mechanical, often Valjoux 7750 based.
• Features, chronograph, rotating slide rule, select references with date, some chronometer certified.

That mix of old-school utility and modern reliability explains the Old Navitimer’s staying power. It feels authentic without being precious, collectible without being fussy, and it delivers the character you want from an icon with the comfort you need to wear it every day.