The Breitling Navitimer Cosmonaute, a name synonymous with space exploration and horological excellence, holds a unique place in the pantheon of aviation watches. While the advertisement directs us to Chrono24.com for current listings and pricing, this article will delve deeper into the history, design, variations, and overall significance of this iconic timepiece, touching upon related models and price points within the broader Breitling Chrono-Matic family. Understanding the Cosmonaute requires exploring its lineage within Breitling's rich chronograph heritage.
The name itself, "Chrono-Matic," is a testament to Breitling's pioneering role in the development and implementation of automatic chronograph movements. Before quartz revolutionized the industry, mechanical chronographs were complex and often unreliable. Breitling's Chrono-Matic line, launched in the late 1960s, represented a significant leap forward, utilizing the groundbreaking Venus 178 movement—a highly accurate and robust automatic chronograph caliber. This movement is the beating heart of the original Cosmonaute, a fact that significantly contributes to its desirability and value today.
The Cosmonaute's Unique Claim to Fame:
Unlike many other Breitling chronographs, the Cosmonaute distinguishes itself with its 24-hour dial. This seemingly minor detail holds immense significance, as it was specifically designed for space missions. In the weightless environment of space, the traditional 12-hour dial could easily cause confusion, potentially leading to errors in mission timing. The 24-hour display elegantly solves this problem, clearly differentiating between AM and PM, crucial for coordinating activities across different time zones and during long spaceflights. This feature cemented the Cosmonaute's place in history as the watch worn by astronauts, further enhancing its legendary status.
Design Elements and Variations:
The Breitling Navitimer Cosmonaute, despite its association with space, maintains the core design principles of its Navitimer sibling. The easily identifiable circular slide rule bezel, a hallmark of the Navitimer line, remains a prominent feature. This bezel, originally designed for flight calculations, adds to the watch's functionality and appeal. However, the Cosmonaute differentiates itself through its distinctive 24-hour dial, often featuring a minimalist design with clear, legible markers and hands. The case size, typically around 41mm, makes it a versatile watch suitable for both formal and informal occasions.
While the original Cosmonaute models are highly sought-after by collectors, Breitling has re-released variations over the years, often incorporating modern materials and movements. These re-editions pay homage to the original while benefiting from advancements in watchmaking technology. One should note that the value and price significantly differ between original vintage pieces and modern re-interpretations.
Exploring the Breitling Chrono-Matic Family and Pricing:
Understanding the Breitling Chrono-Matic Cosmonaute requires examining the broader context of Breitling's Chrono-Matic line. The price of a Breitling Chrono-Matic watch can vary dramatically depending on several factors, including:
* Model: The Cosmonaute, due to its unique history and limited production runs, commands significantly higher prices compared to other Chrono-Matic models.
* Condition: The condition of a vintage Chrono-Matic watch significantly impacts its value. A pristine, original example will fetch a much higher price than one requiring restoration.
* Year of Production: Earlier models are generally more valuable than later ones.
* Complications: The presence of additional complications beyond the basic chronograph function will increase the price.
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