The Breitling Watch Source Forums

Hi All,
Been toying with purchasing another Breitling and I used to own a Chronomat 44 but sold it for various reasons, not the least of which was the size (I've found the 41ish watches fit and look better on my wrist). Anyway, really have liked the Airborne since it was released. I was wondering if it's got "staying power." I noticed they went back to the older type bezel etc. I admit part of the reason I buy watches after much research is because I really like a particular model but also because it will remain as timeless as possible. I know the resale value of all Breitlings isn't great as well so I'd be buying used. Thank you!

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ROLEX Sea-Dweller (116600)
ROLEX Submariner (116610LV)
HAMILTON Stanley c. 1932 (19 jewels/grade 401 movement)

To be completely the only piece that seems to be timeless in terms of Breitling is the navitimer. jmo

Between the Airborne and the normal Chronomat my hunch is that the Airborne will age better. It might be just me, but i think the Buck Rogers bezel will eventually be fazed back out.

If you're going for a 41mm size, I'd say the Airborne is an easy choice over the Chronomat, but that's because I could never get on with the Chronomat 41's "truncation" of the middle square at the date window. That completely botched the design, imo. That detail is handled better in the 44mm size. Personally, I would go with an Airborne over any Chronomat except possibly the Flying Fish. Per my preferences, the Fish is the only 01-style Chronomat Breitling really nailed. On the whole, though, I think the Airborne is a glorious return to form for one Breitling's signature models.

FWIW, I have a Galactic 44, which is essentially a three-hand version of the Airborne 44. The bezel really pops in person. The brushed surface nicely offsets the polished surfaces everywhere else, and the rubber inlays - far from looking cheesy - add some sporty contrast. It really looks like a classic Breitling, but with some nice updates, such as the hinged endpieces on the bracelet. The Airborne is similarly classic, imo.

Well well well, the old gang is is back together. Good to see everyone here.


Between the two I'd pick the airborne. Mostly for the bezel. Buy the watch you want to wear. Good luck.

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sco
Breitling Chrono Superocean
Omega Aqua Terra 8500
Rolex Submariner Date Ceramic

Thanks guys. Appreciate it.

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ROLEX Sea-Dweller (116600)
ROLEX Submariner (116610LV)
HAMILTON Stanley c. 1932 (19 jewels/grade 401 movement)

Oi

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"It is just a matter of time!"

Id go for the Chronomat 41....in fact I just did! I like the new bezel

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Rolex Daytona Panda Dial 116509 40mm
Breitling Chronomat GMT Limited AB0412 47mm
Tag Heuer Link Chrono Auto CJF2110 42mm

OK, one of two styles Breitling really nailed. The Fish and the original 01 LE are virtually fraternal twins.

By "new bezel," do you mean the Buck Rogers bezel? With the release of the Airborne, isn't that now the old bezel? Or do you consider the Airborne's throwback bezel old, and the Buck Rogers bezel new?