Classic AVI
Before WWII the Swiss manufacture managed to dominate the chronograph market. This was because its reliable watches featured the sturdiest and most durable movements available at the time. The models and their historical origins trace back to the work of the Huit Aviation Department, the Eighth Aviation Department, founded in 1938 by Willy Breitling. The number 8 in this line’s name refers to the watchmaker’s Huit Aviation Department (Eighth Aviation Department), which Willy Breitling established in 1938. One of the tasks its design engineers were given was the development of timekeeping devices that were integrated in the instruments of fighter planes. Quality was the hallmark of the Eighth Department; the clocks, featuring a power reserve of up to eight days, were designed to retain their accuracy under extremes of temperature as well as withstanding the plane’s shaking and vibrations.
The watch’s ratcheted bezel of some models refers to the Breitling board clocks in fighter planes. These were hand-wound by turning their similarly shaped bezel. This collection, with its slightly retro yet contemporary look, also comprises elegant sporty models.
The watch’s ratcheted bezel of some models refers to the Breitling board clocks in fighter planes. These were hand-wound by turning their similarly shaped bezel. This collection, with its slightly retro yet contemporary look, also comprises elegant sporty models.
Something more…
When the first models inspired by the Eighth Department hit the market in 2018, they were called Navitimer 8. Later on, this changed to Navitimer Aviator 8. This, however, led to it being confused with the Navitimer range and so the brand finally settled on naming this watch with its striking bezel Classic AVI.This collection of pilot watches is accompanied by standard functions such as a chronograph or GMT, while more purist versions only feature a date display or an aperture showing the weekday and date.
Collection highlight
Over the course of the collection’s brief existence, the blue-dialled Aviator 8 B01 Chronograph 43, featuring the by now already iconic B01 movement, has become the most sought-after model.Apart from its practical functions, a good reason for choosing this chronometer – a highly accurate watch donning the COSC certificate and made right in the La Chaux-de-Fonds manufacture – is its appealingly chic look enhanced by the stitched brown crocodile-skin strap.
Our customers are also drawn to special editions such as the Curtiss Warhawk featuring a khaki dial and army-style strap.