From September 16 and until September 28, 2024, in Breitling boutiques, an exceptional traveling exhibition will offer watch lovers a unique opportunity to delve into the prestigious history of the Breitling watch brand.
“Time Capsule: The Breitling Heritage Exhibition” is a celebration of 140 years of watchmaking innovations from this legendary brand. Founded in 1884, Breitling is synonymous with invention and technical prowess. From the creation of the modern chronograph to sending the first Swiss watch into space, Breitling’s legacy is rich and fascinating. Get ready to discover iconic watches and major technological advances that have marked the history of watchmaking.
Breitling: A pioneering story
Founded in 1884, Breitling has established itself as one of the largest Swiss watch manufacturers. With more than 260 stores worldwide, the brand combines modern and retro style, reflecting its commitment to innovation and quality. Each movement is certified by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC), and Breitling remains one of the few independent watchmakers to manufacture its own calibers.
Today, Breitling continues to push the boundaries of watchmaking with traceable products and in-house movements designed and assembled at Breitling Chronométrie. The brand stands out for its commitment to sustainability and innovation, offering high-quality products with responsible materials. This commitment is reflected in each new collection, which combines watchmaking tradition and cutting-edge technologies.
The emblematic watches of the exhibition
The exhibition presents watches that have played a key role in the history of Breitling, such as:
The independent pusher by Gaston Breitling (1915)
Gaston Breitling’s independent pusher, introduced in 1915, is a major innovation in the history of watchmaking. This pioneering model separated the chronograph functions from the crown, allowing for more precise and intuitive use. This technical advancement not only improved the functionality of watches, but also set a new standard in chronograph design.
The popular ones by Willy Breitling (1937)
Inspired by Kodak’s Brownie camera, Willy Breitling’s “Les Populaires” collection, launched in 1937, democratized chronographs. By making them accessible to more people through mass production at an affordable price, Breitling was able to reach a wider audience. This strategy allowed the brand to strengthen its presence on the market and popularize its watchmaking innovations.
Cocktail watches (1940s)
Cocktail watches from the 1940s are a testament to Breitling’s craftsmanship. Made of gold and adorned with precious stones, these sophisticated watches were intended for women. They represent a blend of elegance and precision, and continue to inspire the brand’s contemporary collections. These cocktail watches are a perfect example of the attention to detail and exceptional quality that Breitling brings to every creation.
La chronomat (1942)
The Chronomat, introduced in 1942, marked a turning point in the history of watchmaking. Equipped with a circular slide rule, it served as an analog calculator, paving the way for future innovations such as the Navitimer. This watch was designed to meet the needs of mathematicians and engineers, offering unprecedented precision and functionality.
The Navitimer (1952)
A true icon for aviators, the Navitimer, equipped with a circular slide rule, was adopted by the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA). This revolutionary pilot’s watch, developed in 1952, became the first on-board computer worn on the wrist. Its innovative design and precision have made it an essential reference for pilots around the world.
The Cosmonaut (1962)
This version of the Navitimer, commanded by astronaut Scott Carpenter, made it possible to distinguish day from night in space thanks to its 24-hour display. It thus became the first Swiss watch sent into space, marking a historic feat for Breitling. This watch not only proved its reliability in extreme conditions, but also strengthened the brand’s reputation in the field of space exploration.
La chrono-Matic (1969)
The result of a collaboration between Heuer Leonidas, Hamilton Buren and Dubois-Depraz, the 1969 Chrono-Matic movement was the first to combine a chronograph with an automatic caliber. This innovation marked a major breakthrough, allowing more practical and efficient use of automatic chronographs. The Chrono-Matic has set new standards in precision and performance.
L’emergency (1995)
The first watch equipped with a miniature international distress beacon, the Emergency can locate and rescue people in danger. Launched in 1995, this watch demonstrated Breitling’s commitment to safety and innovation. The Emergency not only saved lives, but also reinforced the brand’s reputation as a pioneer in the field of utility watches.
The Breitling collections are centered on three universes: the air, the land and the sea. Each of these watches embodies the unique Breitling style, combining functionality and aesthetics. Whether for aviation, diving or land-based adventures, each model is designed to deliver optimal performance and sophisticated design. These watches demonstrate the know-how and constant innovation of the brand over the decades.
A unique experience
The “Time Capsule” exhibition will make 55 stops on four continents, including North America, Europe, Oceania and Asia. Each Breitling boutique participating in the event will welcome visitors for one to two weeks, offering them an immersive experience in the brand’s universe. The watches presented, from the oldest to the most recent, allow us to retrace the evolution of Breitling and understand the importance of each innovation.
Visitors to the “Time Capsule” exhibition will have the opportunity to discover these historic pieces through vintage travel trunks specially designed for the occasion. Each watch comes with a QR code allowing you to delve deeper into its history.
For an even more enriching experience, it is advisable to make an appointment. This interactive approach allows visitors to fully appreciate the evolution of Breitling watches and understand the impact of each innovation on modern watchmaking.
An appointment not to be missed
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to see the timepieces that have made history up close at the “Time Capsule: The Breitling Heritage Exhibition”. Whether you are a watch enthusiast or simply curious, this exhibition promises to be a captivating journey through Breitling’s history and innovation. Book your visit now and immerse yourself in the fascinating world of this legendary brand.
Patrick Koune
