Breitling Navitimer 41mm - Ref. 81600

For sale is a Vintage Breitling Navitimer Ref. 81600, crafted in solid 18k yellow gold and featuring the unmistakable aviation-inspired design that has made the Navitimer one of Breitling’s most iconic watches.

This example is presented on its original Breitling brown leather strap with a matching gold-tone Breitling-signed deployant clasp. The combination of the warm yellow gold case, black dial and contrasting white sub-dials gives the watch a particularly rich vintage appearance.

The Navitimer
Originally developed as a professional aviation chronograph, the Navitimer became famous for its distinctive circular slide rule, allowing pilots to perform a range of calculations directly from the wrist. The Ref. 81600 retains this instantly recognisable functionality while presenting it in the considerably more luxurious form of a solid 18k yellow gold case.

The Case
The case is crafted entirely from solid 18k yellow gold and features the Navitimer’s characteristic notched rotating bezel and distinctive elongated lugs. A signed Breitling crown sits between the chronograph pushers, while the solid gold caseback bears the Breitling winged emblem and “GOLD 18K” designation.

The Dial
The highly detailed black chronograph dial features three contrasting white recessed sub-dials at 3, 6 and 9 o’clock, while the original lume on the hour markers, Arabic 12 and hands has developed a rich yellow patina, giving the watch considerable vintage character. The dial is completed by the applied Breitling winged logo and traditional Navitimer signature.

Strap & Clasp
Completing the watch is its original Breitling brown leather strap, finished with contrasting light stitching and showing some minor signs of wear consistent with use. It is secured by a matching gold-tone Breitling-signed deployant clasp, complementing the warm tones of the solid yellow gold case beautifully.

The Movement
Powering the watch is the manually wound Lemania Calibre 1873, a highly regarded Swiss chronograph movement known for its robust and reliable construction. Its traditional hand-wound architecture complements the classic character of the Navitimer and the aviation-inspired chronograph functionality for which the model is renowned.

With its reverse-panda dial, beautifully patinated lume, solid gold construction and unmistakable Navitimer design, this is a particularly charismatic execution of one of Breitling’s most celebrated chronographs.

Included with the watch:
- Original Box: Yes
- Original Papers: No

Technical Data:
- Model: 81600
- Year: Circa 1970s
- Case material: 18k Yellow Gold
- Case diameter: 41.5mm
- Bracelet: Breitling
- Bracelet material: Leather
- Dial: Black