The Breitling Navitimer. The name itself conjures images of aviation history, precision engineering, and timeless style. But within the broad Navitimer family lies a specific subset that holds a particular allure for collectors: the "Old Navitimer." This isn't a specific model designation, but rather a colloquial term referring to earlier iterations of the Navitimer, typically pre-dating the more modern designs and often featuring characteristics highly sought after by enthusiasts. This article delves into the world of the Old Navitimer, exploring its history, identifying key features, navigating the market, and ultimately guiding you through the process of finding the perfect vintage Breitling Navitimer for your collection.
Defining the "Old Navitimer": A Matter of Perspective
Defining what constitutes an "Old Navitimer" is somewhat subjective. There's no official cutoff year, but generally, watches produced before the significant design changes introduced in the late 1980s and 1990s are considered "old." This encompasses a broad range of models, each with its own unique charm and characteristics. These older models often exhibit a more robust, less refined aesthetic compared to their modern counterparts, a characteristic many collectors find particularly appealing. The appeal lies not only in their historical significance but also in their often more intricate movements and the sense of owning a piece of horological history.
Key Features of the Old Navitimer:
Several key features distinguish the Old Navitimer from its later iterations. These include:
* Case Design: Older Navitimers often feature a more substantial, thicker case, sometimes with more pronounced lugs. The case finish might be less polished, leading to a more rugged look.
* Dial Design: Dial variations are vast across the years of production. Look for subtle differences in font styles, the placement of sub-dials, and the overall layout. Certain dial configurations and color combinations are highly sought after by collectors, commanding premium prices. Original radium or tritium lume is also a common feature, adding to the watch's historical significance (though it's crucial to be aware of the potential safety considerations related to vintage radium).
* Movement: Older Navitimers frequently house manually wound or early automatic movements, often with a higher beat rate than their modern counterparts. These movements are generally considered more mechanically intricate and possess a unique charm for watch enthusiasts. The Valjoux 7750 movement, while later becoming a staple in Navitimers, wasn't present in the earliest models. These earlier movements, though perhaps less robust in some aspects, often have a distinct character.
* Bezel: The iconic rotating slide rule bezel is a defining feature of all Navitimers. However, the details of the bezel – the font, the markings, the material – can vary significantly between older and newer models. These variations are important clues for dating and identifying specific models.
* Hands: The style and material of the hands can also provide clues to the age and model of the watch. Look for subtle differences in shape and length.
Breitling Old Navitimer for Sale: Navigating the Market
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