The Breitling Chronomat series has long been a cornerstone of the brand’s identity, embodying robustness, precision, and a distinctive aesthetic. Within this iconic collection lies the Breitling Chronomat Longitude, a model often overlooked yet brimming with features that make it a compelling choice for watch enthusiasts. This article serves as your comprehensive resource for understanding the Chronomat Longitude, exploring its history, features, variations, and place within the broader Breitling universe. We’ll delve into everything from deciphering serial numbers to understanding its value in the pre-owned market.
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This article aims to be more than just a review. Consider it a central hub for all things Chronomat Longitude, supplementing the information you might find across different sections of our platform dedicated to Breitling watches. Here, we'll connect the dots, providing a holistic view of this specific model while referencing broader categories like the Chronomat Series, Navitimer Series (where relevant comparisons exist), Chronoliner Series (another GMT contender), and even the SuperOcean Series (for context on Breitling's overall design philosophy). We’ll also touch upon key topics like:
* Breitling Chronomat Watch Chart: Understanding where the Longitude fits within the Chronomat family tree.
* Breitling Chronomat Price Guide: Assessing its current market value and factors influencing price.
* Breitling Chronomat Reviews: Gathering insights from expert and user perspectives.
* Breitling Chronomat Serial Numbers: Decoding the information embedded in the serial number.
* Breitling Navitimer Chronomat: Understanding the differences and commonalities.
* More: Exploring other aspects like strap options, servicing considerations, and more.
The Breitling Chronomat: A Legacy of Innovation
Before diving into the Longitude, it's crucial to appreciate the legacy of the Chronomat. The Chronomat was initially launched in 1941, not as a pilot's watch (as many assume), but as a tool watch designed for mathematicians and scientists. Its defining feature was the rotating slide rule bezel, enabling complex calculations directly on the wrist. The modern Chronomat, however, took shape in 1984, coinciding with Breitling’s centenary. This reimagined Chronomat, developed in collaboration with the Italian Frecce Tricolori aerobatic team, solidified its position as a robust, stylish, and highly functional chronograph.
The Breitling Chronomat Longitude: A GMT Champion
The Breitling Chronomat Longitude, often identified by references like the Breitling Chronomat Longitude A20348, distinguishes itself from other Chronomat models through its GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) functionality. This feature allows the wearer to track two time zones simultaneously, making it an ideal companion for travelers or anyone who needs to keep tabs on colleagues or family in different parts of the world.
Key Features of the Chronomat Longitude:
* GMT Functionality: The core of the Longitude lies in its ability to display a second time zone using a dedicated GMT hand, usually indicated by a distinctive arrow-shaped tip. This hand makes one full rotation every 24 hours, pointing to a 24-hour scale, often located on the bezel or inner dial.
* Chronograph: As a Chronomat, the Longitude retains the chronograph function, allowing for precise measurement of elapsed time. This typically includes a central seconds hand for chronograph seconds, along with subdials for minutes and hours.
* Rotating Bezel: The rotating bezel, a hallmark of the Chronomat, is present on the Longitude. While some variations retain the slide rule functionality (though less emphasized than in earlier models), others feature a more simplified design. The bezel can be used to track elapsed time or, in some cases, a third time zone.
* Automatic Movement: The Chronomat Longitude is powered by an automatic movement, ensuring accurate timekeeping and eliminating the need for manual winding. The specific movement may vary depending on the production year and model, but they are typically high-quality, chronometer-certified movements.breitling chronomat longitude
* Robust Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of daily wear, the Chronomat Longitude boasts a sturdy case, typically made of stainless steel, and a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal.
* Water Resistance: While not a dedicated dive watch like the SuperOcean, the Chronomat Longitude offers a decent level of water resistance, usually around 100 meters, making it suitable for everyday activities and occasional swimming.
* Distinctive Design: The Chronomat Longitude shares the distinctive design cues of the Chronomat series, including the signature rider tabs on the bezel (often used for grip and protection of the crystal), a prominent crown, and pushers for the chronograph function.
Understanding the Reference: Breitling Chronomat Longitude A20348
The reference number, such as Breitling Chronomat Longitude A20348, is crucial for identifying specific variations of the model. Here's a breakdown of what the reference number typically reveals:
* A: Indicates the movement type. "A" usually denotes an automatic (self-winding) movement.
* 20: This section usually refers to the specific calibre type and indicates the features of the watch.