Breitling introduces Transocean Chronograph Caliber 01 Limited Edition

As a preview celebration of this future classic, the brand with the winged B is introducing a Transocean Chronograph Limited special series fitted with a transparent caseback revealing Breitling Caliber 01 – doubtless the best chronograph movement in its category.

In 1958, building upon the reputation for excellence acquired by its instruments for professionals, Breitling launched a new model named Transocean. “Men who have faith in the mighty liners of the sky will trust the Transocean, for behind every Breitling wristwatch lies the experience of aviation precision” – ran the slogan. This high-performance shock-resistant, antimagnetic and super-watertight model was also distinguished by its extremely precise chronometer-certified selfwinding movement. Endowed with an understated and refined design, it soon became a great success and proudly accompanied the boom in transatlantic travel, in an era when the famous Boeing 707, DC-8 and Caravelle aircraft – three symbols of speed, comfort and security – were bringing continents closer together than ever.

The new Transocean

Breitling pays tribute to this landmark model in its brand history by launching a new collection also inspired by the spirit of great journeys and luxury long-haul aircraft. While the pure lines of today’s Transocean are strongly reminiscent of the finest classic chronographs of the 1950s and 1960s, the new model reinterprets them in a resolutely contemporary style. The elegant case is distinguished by its perfectly understated design, magnified by a smooth, slender bezel with a beveled profile and streamlined lugs molding the wrist. The classic round push-pieces, a nod to the first water-resistant push-pieces, lend a subtle vintage touch, while the large “baton” type straight-line hands, highlighted by a luminescent substance, convey a more modern aura. A prime example of clarity and readability, the dial features meticulously refined details such as applied hour-markers, counters that are finely recessed and “snailed” (decorated with a spiral motif), and an 18K gold rendering of the initial B that served for many years as the brand emblem.

At the heart of this model lies an exceptional “engine” also designed to keep precise and reliable time throughout the longest journeys, since the Transocean is equipped with Caliber 01, a high-performance selfwinding chronograph movement entirely developed and produced within the Breitling workshop and chronometer certified like all the brand’s movements. A model of discreet luxury, fine craftsmanship and technical perfection, the new Transocean is 100% Swiss made, as indeed are all chronographs and wrist instruments bearing the Breitling signature.

A limited edition epitomizing refined luxury

As a prelude to the launch of the series-produced models, Breitling offers collectors and enthusiasts of milestone watches a special edition of this new first-class chronograph. Issued in worldwide series of 2,000 in steel and 200 in red gold, the Transocean Chronograph Limited is equipped with a polished case and bezel and carries the individual number engraved on the case middle. It is available with two dial variations – Mercury Silver or black – and comes fitted with a choice of leather or crocodile leather strap, or a woven steel bracelet. Contrary to future models in the series, to be endowed with solid casebacks, this limited-edition model water-resistant to 100 meters (330 ft) boasts a transparent back serving to reveal the 100% Breitling-made chronograph caliber with its column wheel and its distinctive architecture.

Technical data

Caliber: Breitling 01
Movement: Selfwinding, high frequency
Power reserve: Over 70-hour
Chronograph: 1/4^th second, 30 minutes, 12 hours
Vibration: 28 800 v.p.h.
Jewel: 47 jewels
Calendar: Dial aperture
Case: Steel or 18 carat red gold
Bracelet: Barenia leather, crocodile leather Ocean Classic (steel version only)
Water resistance: 100 meters (330ft/10 bars)
Back (or caseback): Transparent sapphire crystal
Crystal: Convex sapphire crystal, glareproofed on both sides
Diameter: 43.00m

Breitling watches Miami and Breitling watches Nashville are available at King Jewelers. For more information, please visit www.breitling.com and www.kings1912.com.