breitling chronomat 40 | Breitling Chronomat automatic 40mm

The Breitling Chronomat has long been a cornerstone of the brand's identity, known for its bold design, robust construction, and chronograph functionality. However, the historically larger dimensions of the Chronomat have sometimes presented a barrier for those with smaller wrists or a preference for more understated elegance. Enter the Breitling Chronomat 40, a compelling addition to the family that addresses this concern with a more accessible and versatile size. This review delves into the details of this exciting model, exploring its design, features, price, and overall appeal.

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The Allure of a More Manageable Size

The most significant distinguishing feature of the Breitling Chronomat 40 is, undoubtedly, its size. Measuring in at a contemporary 40mm in diameter, 11.77mm in thickness, and with a lug-to-lug distance of 47.4mm, this new iteration offers a significantly more comfortable and wearable experience for a wider range of wrist sizes. This reduction in size doesn't come at the expense of the Chronomat's characteristic boldness, but rather refines it, creating a more sophisticated and versatile timepiece suitable for both casual and formal occasions.

Previous Chronomat models often exceeded 42mm, making them feel substantial and sometimes even unwieldy on smaller wrists. The Chronomat 40 addresses this head-on, offering a more balanced and proportionate aesthetic that doesn't compromise on the watch's inherent presence. The 11.77mm thickness, while still offering a commanding profile, is noticeably slimmer than some of its larger siblings, contributing to a more comfortable fit under a cuff.

This focus on wearability is a welcome development, broadening the appeal of the Chronomat collection to a new audience. It acknowledges the growing trend towards more moderately sized watches while staying true to the spirit of the original Chronomat design.

Unmistakably Chronomat: Retaining the Signature Design Language

Despite the size adjustment, the Breitling Chronomat 40 remains instantly recognizable as a member of the Chronomat family. It retains all the key design elements that define the collection, including:breitling chronomat 40

* The Rider Tabs: The iconic rider tabs at 3 and 9 o'clock on the unidirectional bezel are a hallmark of the Chronomat. These tabs not only provide enhanced grip for rotating the bezel but also protect the crystal from impacts. They are present and accounted for in the Chronomat 40, contributing to its robust and sporty character.

* The Integrated Rouleaux Bracelet: The distinctive Rouleaux bracelet, with its interlocking links, is another defining feature of the Chronomat. It's known for its comfortable fit and unique aesthetic. The Chronomat 40 features this bracelet, further solidifying its connection to the classic Chronomat design. The bracelet is typically offered in stainless steel, but some models may feature two-tone options.

* The Case Design: The Chronomat 40 inherits the robust and angular case design of its predecessors. The case is meticulously finished with a combination of brushed and polished surfaces, creating a visually appealing contrast. The prominent crown and pushers, characteristic of chronograph watches, are also present, albeit scaled down to complement the smaller case size.

* The Dial Layout: While the Chronomat 40 is generally a time-and-date watch (unlike the chronograph versions), the dial maintains a clean and legible layout. The applied indices and hands are generously coated with Super-LumiNova for excellent visibility in low-light conditions. The date window is typically positioned at the 6 o'clock marker, maintaining symmetry and balance on the dial.

Movement: The Heart of the Chronomat 40

The Breitling Chronomat 40 is powered by the Breitling Caliber 10, a COSC-certified chronometer movement. This automatic movement is based on the ETA 2892-A2 or Sellita SW300-1, but significantly modified and refined by Breitling. The Caliber 10 offers reliable performance, accuracy, and a power reserve of approximately 42 hours.

The COSC certification ensures that the movement meets stringent accuracy standards, guaranteeing a high level of precision. The movement is also equipped with a hacking seconds function, allowing the wearer to stop the seconds hand for precise time setting.

While the Chronomat 40 doesn't feature an exhibition case back to showcase the movement, the solid case back provides added protection and water resistance.

Dial Variations and Aesthetics: A Spectrum of Choices

The Breitling Chronomat 40 is offered in a variety of dial colors and finishes, allowing you to choose a model that best suits your personal style. Common options include:

* Silver Dials: Silver dials offer a classic and elegant look, often paired with contrasting indices and hands for enhanced legibility.

* Blue Dials: Blue dials are a popular choice, adding a touch of sophistication and versatility.

* Black Dials: Black dials provide a sporty and understated aesthetic, often with white or luminous accents for maximum visibility.