The Breitling Navitimer, a watch synonymous with aviation history and sophisticated design, boasts a rich and varied lineage. Within that lineage, certain models and dial variations achieve legendary status, prized by collectors for their rarity and historical significance. The Breitling Chronomatic Navitimer Tachymeter reference 7808, particularly certain dial color variations, is one such example. The question of originality, especially regarding a watch like this, is paramount. This article delves into the intricacies of the 7808, exploring its place in Breitling's history, analyzing the factors that contribute to its rarity, and offering guidance on assessing the authenticity of a particular example. The claim of extreme rarity for specific dial configurations warrants a thorough examination.
Understanding the Breitling Chronomatic Navitimer 7808
The Breitling Navitimer 7808, often referred to as a Chronomatic Navitimer (reflecting the movement's technology) or simply a Navitimer Tachymeter, represents a fascinating period in Breitling's history. Produced during a time of significant technological advancement in watchmaking, the 7808 incorporated the then-innovative Chronomatic movement, a high-beat automatic chronograph caliber. This represented a move away from the manually wound movements that characterized earlier Navitimers, offering improved accuracy and convenience. The "Chronomatic" label, proudly displayed on the dial, signified this technological leap.
The 7808's design elements are instantly recognizable as a Navitimer. The iconic circular slide rule bezel, a hallmark of the Navitimer lineage, remains central to its functionality and aesthetic appeal. This bezel allows for complex calculations crucial to pilots, including speed, distance, fuel consumption, and more. The dial itself, typically featuring sub-dials for chronograph functions and a date window, showcases Breitling's commitment to both practicality and elegance. However, it is the subtle variations in dial color and design – including the specific color variation mentioned in the initial query – that contribute significantly to a watch's collectible value and its potential rarity.
Rarity and Collectibility: The Importance of Dial Variations
The claim that a specific dial color variation of the 7808 is "extremely rare" needs careful consideration. While Breitling produced numerous 7808 models, the production numbers for each specific dial variation are not publicly available. This lack of transparency contributes to the mystique surrounding certain examples and fuels speculation about their rarity. Several factors influence the rarity of a particular 7808:
* Production Run: The number of watches produced with a specific dial color directly impacts its rarity. Shorter production runs inevitably lead to fewer surviving examples.
* Market Demand: Certain dial colors may have been more popular at the time of production, leading to higher initial sales and, consequently, a greater number of surviving watches. Conversely, less popular color schemes might have had lower production numbers, increasing their rarity today.
* Survival Rate: The passage of time takes its toll on watches. Factors like wear and tear, damage, and the lack of proper maintenance contribute to the overall reduction in the number of surviving examples of any particular model. Watches that have been poorly cared for are less likely to survive in good condition, further impacting the pool of collectible pieces.
* Regional Variations: Breitling sometimes produced watches with specific dial variations or features catered to different markets. These regional variations can contribute to the rarity of certain configurations.
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