breitling ref 7103 41 | Pre

The Breitling Ref 7103 41, a captivating chronograph from the 1970s, holds a special place in the hearts of vintage watch enthusiasts. Often referred to as the "Long Playing" chronograph, this model encapsulates the design sensibilities and technical prowess of Breitling during a period of significant horological evolution. This article will delve into the intricacies of the Ref 7103 41, examining its design, movement, variations, historical context, and collectibility, drawing upon information gleaned from various sources, including discussions on The Breitling Watch Source Forums and listings of previously sold examples.

A Child of the 1970s: Design and Aestheticsbreitling ref 7103 41

The Breitling Ref 7103 41 is unmistakably a product of the 1970s. Its design reflects the era's penchant for bold lines, functional aesthetics, and a certain robustness. The 40mm stainless steel case, a comfortable size for most wrists, strikes a balance between presence and wearability. The case shape is typically round, often featuring a slightly domed profile, which contributes to the watch's vintage charm.

The dial of the Ref 7103 41 is where its personality truly shines. Common variations include:

* Black Dial with White Subdials ("Panda" Dial): This is arguably the most sought-after configuration. The stark contrast between the black dial and the white subdials (for the chronograph functions) provides excellent legibility and a visually striking aesthetic. This "Panda" dial configuration is a hallmark of many vintage chronographs, and the Ref 7103 41 executes it beautifully.

* Silver/White Dial with Black Subdials ("Reverse Panda" Dial): A less common but equally appealing option, the "Reverse Panda" dial offers a brighter and more sophisticated look. The silver or white background contrasts with the black subdials, creating a similar level of legibility to the "Panda" version.

* Other Dial Variations: While the "Panda" and "Reverse Panda" dials are the most prevalent, other dial colors and configurations may exist. These variations can range from greyish-silver to other metallic tones.

Regardless of the dial color, the Ref 7103 41 typically features:

* Three Subdials: These subdials record elapsed time for the chronograph function. Typically, one subdial tracks elapsed seconds, another tracks elapsed minutes, and the third tracks elapsed hours. The exact layout and scale of the subdials can vary slightly depending on the specific model.

* Date Window: Located at the 3 o'clock position (or sometimes at 6 o'clock), the date window adds a practical element to the chronograph function. The date disc is typically white with black numerals, ensuring good readability against the dial background.

* Tachymeter Scale: Often printed around the outer edge of the dial, the tachymeter scale allows the wearer to calculate speed based on distance traveled. This feature is a common inclusion in chronographs and adds to the Ref 7103 41's sporty appeal.

* Luminous Hands and Markers: To ensure readability in low-light conditions, the hands and hour markers are typically coated with luminous material (usually tritium in watches from this era). The luminous material gives the watch a warm glow, particularly after being exposed to light.

The Ref 7103 41 is generally paired with a leather strap, which complements the vintage aesthetic. The strap can be brown, black, or other colors, and it often features a Breitling-signed buckle.

The Heart of the Matter: The Movement

The "Long Playing" moniker is directly related to the movement powering the Ref 7103 41. While some sources might suggest the use of a manual-winding Valjoux 7740, the Ref 7103 41 is predominantly known for housing an automatic movement, specifically the Valjoux 7750.

The Valjoux 7750 is a legendary chronograph movement that has been a workhorse in the watch industry for decades. Introduced in the early 1970s, the 7750 is known for its robustness, reliability, and ease of servicing. It is a cam-actuated chronograph movement, which means that the chronograph functions (start, stop, reset) are controlled by a series of levers and cams.

Key features of the Valjoux 7750 movement include:

* Automatic Winding: The movement is self-winding, meaning that it is powered by the motion of the wearer's wrist. A rotor spins around a central axis, winding the mainspring and storing energy.

* Chronograph Function: As mentioned, the movement features a chronograph function, allowing the wearer to measure elapsed time. The chronograph is typically activated and deactivated using pushers located on the side of the case.

* Date Function: The movement also includes a date function, which is displayed through a date window on the dial.

* Subseconds Display: A small seconds subdial is typically located at the 9 o'clock position.