Thanks @WatchFred for your insights - they certainly provide context on the company’s revised direction and new design language. Of course, anyone that expected there would be no or little change does not have an understanding of commerce. New ownership almost always comes with change as new owners stamp their authority on a business. In this case, where the CEO also took a sizeable equity stake, the drive to make a change would be very high.
In terms of the Navitimer 8 and it’s links to historical models, I just don't see it - at least not in photos. The vintage models always seem to be delicate, with fine features and finessed touches, whereas the Navitimer 8 has some very sporty and almost brutal elements to it. Perhaps it's just a reflection on modern-world design, and the necessity to blend that with any historical elements they want to adopt.
For now, I can take or leave the new Navitimer 8 models, because I was never a fan of the chunkier modern Breitlings (Chronomat, Avenger, Galatic, Colt, etc) anyway. What I am interested in though, is the promise embodied in this statement.
WatchFred wrote:
well, if you like the anchor/B/wings .... then buy now 
I prefer what's coming up.
I prefer what's coming up.