The Breitling Bentley collaboration is legendary, a fusion of Swiss watchmaking precision and British automotive luxury. Within this prestigious partnership, certain models stand out, captivating collectors and enthusiasts alike. The Breitling Premier Bentley Chronograph Automatic Chronometer Green Dial, often referred to simply as "Breitling Bentley Green," is arguably one of the most sought-after examples. This article delves into the allure of this particular timepiece, exploring its design, functionality, history, and market value, while providing resources for those seeking to acquire one.
A Symphony of Style: The Aesthetics of Breitling Bentley Green
The Breitling Premier Bentley Chronograph Automatic Chronometer Green Dial is instantly recognizable, primarily due to its striking green dial. This isn't just any green; it's a deep, rich, almost iridescent hue that evokes the iconic "British Racing Green" associated with Bentley's storied motorsport heritage. The dial itself is meticulously crafted, often featuring a sunburst finish that catches the light in a mesmerizing way. This finish enhances the depth and character of the green, creating a visual spectacle that is both sophisticated and sporty.
Beyond the color, the dial layout is classic Breitling, offering exceptional legibility despite the complexity of a chronograph. Typically, you'll find:
* Three Subdials: These track elapsed time for the chronograph function, usually positioned at 3, 6, and 9 o'clock for a balanced aesthetic. The registers often feature contrasting colors or textures to improve readability.
* Date Window: Usually located at the 6 o'clock position, seamlessly integrated within the subdial.
* Applied Indices or Arabic Numerals: These mark the hours, often luminescent for visibility in low-light conditions. The style of the numerals can vary slightly depending on the specific model year, but they generally maintain a classic and elegant font.
* Breitling and Bentley Logos: Both brands are prominently displayed on the dial, signifying the partnership and adding to the prestige of the timepiece. The Breitling "B" logo often sits above the 12 o'clock position, while the Bentley logo might be incorporated into one of the subdials or subtly placed elsewhere on the dial.
The case is typically crafted from stainless steel, although some limited editions might feature precious metals like gold or platinum. The case design often incorporates elements reminiscent of Bentley's automotive styling, such as knurled bezels inspired by Bentley's dashboard controls or lug designs that echo the curves of a Bentley's bodywork. The case diameter usually ranges from 42mm to 45mm, providing a substantial presence on the wrist without being overly bulky.
The strap is another key element that contributes to the overall aesthetic. Options often include:
* Leather Straps: Typically crafted from high-quality calfskin or alligator leather, often in a complementary shade of green or brown to match the dial. Some straps feature stitching that mimics the Bentley's interior upholstery.
* Stainless Steel Bracelet: Offers a more sporty and robust look. The bracelet links are often meticulously finished with polished and brushed surfaces for a luxurious feel.
The combination of the green dial, the meticulously designed case, and the carefully chosen strap creates a timepiece that is both visually stunning and incredibly wearable. It's a watch that can be dressed up or down, making it suitable for a variety of occasions.
Breitling's Engineering Excellence: Functionality and Performance
The Breitling Premier Bentley Chronograph Automatic Chronometer Green Dial is not just a pretty face; it's a highly functional and accurate timepiece. At its heart lies a Breitling Caliber movement, often the Caliber 01 or a similar in-house movement. These movements are renowned for their:
* Chronometer Certification: The movement has been rigorously tested by the COSC (Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres) and certified to meet strict accuracy standards. This certification guarantees that the watch will keep time within a narrow range of deviation, ensuring reliable and precise timekeeping.
* Automatic Winding: The movement is self-winding, meaning it is powered by the motion of the wearer's wrist. This eliminates the need for manual winding and ensures that the watch is always ready to go.
* Chronograph Function: The chronograph function allows the wearer to measure elapsed time with precision. The chronograph pushers, located on the side of the case, start, stop, and reset the chronograph mechanism.
* Power Reserve: The movement typically boasts a substantial power reserve, often around 70 hours. This means that the watch can be taken off the wrist for several days and still continue to run accurately.
The chronograph function is particularly useful for timing events, whether it's tracking laps at a racetrack or measuring the duration of a meeting. The subdials provide clear and concise readings of elapsed time, while the central chronograph seconds hand allows for precise measurements.breitling bentley green
The movement is typically visible through a sapphire crystal case back, allowing the wearer to admire the intricate workings of the mechanism. The case back might also be engraved with the Bentley logo or other commemorative details.
A Legacy of Collaboration: The Breitling and Bentley Partnership