The Breitling Chronometer Premier collection stands as a testament to Breitling's rich heritage, seamlessly blending sophisticated design with unwavering precision. More than just a timepiece, the Premier represents a commitment to elegance and functionality, a harmonious balance that resonates with discerning watch enthusiasts. This article delves into the captivating world of the Breitling Chronometer Premier, particularly focusing on the stunning 42mm stainless steel model with its striking blue crocodile leather strap and vibrant blue dial. We'll explore its features, performance, and overall value, providing a comprehensive look at why the Premier remains a coveted piece in the Breitling lineup.
A Legacy of Style: The Breitling Premier Chronograph
The Breitling Premier line has a storied past, dating back to the 1940s. During a time when tool watches dominated the market, Willy Breitling envisioned a timepiece that prioritized elegance and refinement alongside functionality. The original Premier chronographs were designed to be stylish companions, suitable for business and leisure alike. They represented a shift towards a more sophisticated aesthetic, appealing to a clientele that appreciated both performance and aesthetics.
The modern Breitling Chronometer Premier collection honors this legacy, reimagining the classic design with contemporary materials and technology. It retains the spirit of its predecessors while embracing modern advancements, solidifying its position as a symbol of understated luxury and Breitling's unwavering commitment to quality.
Breitling Chronometer Premier 42: A Detailed Examination
The 42mm stainless steel Breitling Chronometer Premier, specifically the model with the blue dial and blue crocodile leather strap, perfectly embodies the essence of the collection. Let's break down its key components and features:
* Case: The 42mm stainless steel case is meticulously crafted and polished, providing a robust yet elegant housing for the intricate movement within. Its size strikes a perfect balance – substantial enough to make a statement without being overwhelming on the wrist. The case features a refined profile with carefully sculpted lugs that seamlessly integrate with the strap. The pushers for the chronograph function are thoughtfully designed and positioned, adding to the overall aesthetic appeal.
* Dial: The striking blue dial is undoubtedly the centerpiece of this model. The deep, rich blue hue catches the light beautifully, creating a captivating visual effect. The dial features contrasting silver-toned subdials at 3, 6, and 9 o'clock, displaying the chronograph functions (30-minute counter, 12-hour counter, and small seconds, respectively). Applied hour markers and hands, filled with Super-LumiNova, ensure excellent legibility in all lighting conditions. A subtle date window is positioned at 6 o'clock, maintaining the dial's symmetry and overall balance. The dial's layout is clean and uncluttered, allowing for easy reading of the time and chronograph functions.
* Movement: At the heart of the Breitling Chronometer Premier lies a high-performance automatic movement. While the specific movement can vary depending on the model (e.g., Breitling Caliber 13, based on the ETA Valjoux 7750, or the in-house Breitling Manufacture Caliber 01), all Premier chronographs are COSC-certified chronometers. This certification guarantees exceptional accuracy and reliability, ensuring that the watch meets stringent standards for timekeeping precision. The movement is meticulously finished and can often be admired through a transparent caseback (depending on the specific model).
* Strap: The blue crocodile leather strap is a luxurious and comfortable complement to the stainless steel case and blue dial. The genuine crocodile leather is supple and durable, conforming to the wrist for a comfortable fit. The blue hue perfectly matches the dial, creating a cohesive and sophisticated aesthetic. The strap is secured with a stainless steel folding clasp, providing both security and ease of use.
* Crystal: The dial is protected by a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating on both sides. This ensures optimal clarity and legibility, even in bright sunlight. The sapphire crystal is highly durable and resistant to scratches, ensuring that the watch remains pristine for years to come.
Breitling Premier Chronograph 42 Review: A Balanced Perspective
The Breitling Chronometer Premier 42 is widely praised for its elegant design, exceptional craftsmanship, and reliable performance. Here's a review summarizing its key strengths and potential drawbacks:
Pros:
* Elegant and Timeless Design: The Premier's design is a perfect blend of classic and contemporary elements, making it a versatile timepiece suitable for various occasions.
* Exceptional Accuracy: The COSC-certified chronometer movement guarantees exceptional accuracy and reliability.
* High-Quality Materials and Craftsmanship: The use of premium materials, such as stainless steel, sapphire crystal, and crocodile leather, ensures durability and longevity.
* Comfortable to Wear: The 42mm case size and comfortable strap make it a pleasure to wear on a daily basis.
* Versatile Style: The Premier can be dressed up or down, making it suitable for both formal and casual settings.
Cons:
* Price: The Breitling Chronometer Premier is a luxury timepiece and comes with a corresponding price tag.breitling chronometer premier
* Movement Thickness (for Caliber 13 models): Models powered by the Caliber 13 (ETA 7750 base) might be slightly thicker than those with in-house movements.
* Water Resistance: While sufficient for everyday wear, the water resistance might not be suitable for swimming or diving.