Everything
In the high-octane arena of aviation-inspired timepieces, one watch has consistently soared above the rest: the Breitling Avenger. For over two decades, this iconic timepiece has been the go-to for jet pilots, but it’s not just the aviation elite who are drawn to its bold aesthetic and unyielding durability. The Avenger is a watch for anyone who seeks a blend of adventure and elegance on their wrist.
Breitling, with a rich heritage dating back to 1884, has long been synonymous with precision and pioneering spirit. It’s a brand that seamlessly merges the realms of air, land, and sea into its designs, while maintaining a modern-retro style that’s unmistakably Breitling. The Swiss watchmaker’s deep-rooted connection with aviation began in the 1930s under Willy Breitling’s vision. He foresaw the need for precise timekeeping in the skies and responded with the HUIT Aviation Department, dedicated to crafting instruments and chronographs for pilots. This foresight paved the way for legendary creations like the Navitimer and, of course, the Avenger.
Fast forward to today, and Breitling is ready to unveil the newest iteration of the Avenger. Twenty of them, no less, once you break down the variations of strap, colour and material options. “It’s not just a redesign; it’s a complete evolution,” states Breitling CEO Georges Kern and even this is something of an understatement. This complete overhaul of the Avenger series remains true to its roots in robustness and reliability but adds a contemporary twist that’s all about sleek aviation details and state-of-the-art wear-resistant materials.
The heart of the new Avenger chronograph models beats with the Breitling Manufacture Caliber 01, a powerhouse movement that guarantees around 70 hours of power. It’s a COSC-certified chronometer, a testament to its precision, showcased through an open sapphire-crystal caseback. These models are available in a range of dial colours – think deep blues, striking greens, and classic black or sand. The design is further enhanced by a rotating 60-minute bezel and streamlined baton indexes, complemented by red-tipped chrono hands.
For those who prefer their timepieces with an extra dash of daring, the Avenger Night Mission stands out. Its vibrant yellow or carbon black dial, housed in a scratch-resistant ceramic case, is a statement in itself. But it’s the solid titanium used for the caseback, crown, pushers, and buckle that gives the Night Mission its remarkable strength-to-weight ratio. The numerals on the dial are designed for maximum legibility, especially against the carbon fibre black background – a nod to the materials used in modern aircraft design.
The Avenger Automatic GMT 44 caters to the globetrotting adventurer. Its red GMT hand and 24-hour rotating bezel make tracking a second time zone effortless. Equipped with the Breitling Caliber 32 and offering a 42-hour power reserve, this watch is as functional as it is stylish.
Then there’s the Avenger Automatic 42 – a testament to the adage that good things come in small packages. It packs all the punch of its larger counterparts but in a more compact 42 mm diameter. With a choice of black, naval-blue, or camo-green dials, this watch is powered by the Breitling Caliber 17 automatic movement and comes with a 38-hour power reserve.
