The Breitling Classic AVI Chronograph 42 is a 42 mm automatic aviation chronograph collection honoring four historic aircraft. It launched in May 2023; it is not a new 2026 release. Breitling’s current collection page, accessed October 8, 2026, lists steel and 18k red-gold versions, with configurations and prices varying by reference and market.
What is the Classic AVI Chronograph 42?
Breitling presents the Classic AVI as an aviation chronograph collection inspired by its 1953 Ref. 765 AVI Co-Pilot. The current lineup separates the 42 mm Chronograph from the 41 mm AVI Ref. 765 Re-Editions; they are distinct models, not different case sizes of the same watch. See Breitling’s current US-facing Classic AVI collection for the collection and reference listings.
The 42 mm Chronograph range pays tribute to four aircraft: the P-51 Mustang, Vought F4U Corsair, Curtiss Warhawk and de Havilland Mosquito. Breitling associates the Mustang with a black dial, the Corsair with blue, the Warhawk with green, and the Mosquito with a black ceramic bezel.
Specifications and materials
- Case: 42 mm, according to Breitling’s current collection page.
- Movement: Automatic Breitling Caliber 23, described by Breitling as COSC-certified.
- Power reserve: Approximately 48 hours, as stated by Breitling.
- Accuracy: Breitling gives the chronometer accuracy standard as -4/+6 seconds per day.
- Materials: Stainless steel and 18k red gold, depending on reference.
- Strap or bracelet: Pilot-inspired calfskin leather straps and five-row metal bracelets are listed; specific combinations depend on reference and market.
These are collection-level details from Breitling, not a guarantee that every material or strap configuration is available for every aircraft tribute or in every country.
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#1 Best Overall
- Swiss made
- Case material
- Stainless steel
- Water resistance
- 10 bars
Models, configurations and current US prices
Breitling’s US-facing collection page displayed the following prices when accessed October 8, 2026. Prices and availability can change, so check the listing for the exact reference and configuration before buying.
| Aircraft tribute | Design detail | Displayed US price |
|---|---|---|
| P-51 Mustang | Black dial | Several steel references were listed at USD 6,050; the 18k red-gold P-51 was listed substantially higher, but the amount is not stated here. |
| Vought F4U Corsair | Blue dial | Several steel references were listed at USD 6,050. |
| Curtiss Warhawk | Green dial | Several steel references were listed at USD 6,050. |
| de Havilland Mosquito | Black ceramic bezel | A Mosquito reference was listed at USD 6,200. |
The official page’s figures are regional displayed prices, not universal prices or a quote for every strap, bracelet or material combination. The page did not establish the exact red-gold P-51 amount in the information summarized here.
Rank #2
- AVI-8 - OUR STORY: The brand inspiration and design excellence originates from the collaboration between pilots and engineers who served in air forces around the world. Every collection is an explicit homage to the planes, people and history of military aviation. Each timepiece brings to life the detail and narrative of the inspiration to delight and engage the wearer.
- THE HAWKER HURRICANE CLASSIC CHRONOGRAPH: A tribute to arguably the most iconic plane from the WW2 era. The Hawker Hurricane Classic Chronograph is characterised by a simplicity that echoes the design of its namesake. Clean, bold lines surround the dial on which the colours and graphics celebrate the fighter plane’s simple but striking motif that identified the Hawker Hurricane.
- CHRONOGRAPH MOVEMENT: A classic timepiece that speaks across generations - a stylish men's watch with Japanese Quartz Chronograph movement and date function
- THE FINER DETAILS: The Hawker Hurricane Classic Chronograph features a 42mm stainless steel case, a 22mm genuine leather strap, mineral lens and water resistance of 50m.
- 2 YEARS INTERNATIONAL WARRANTY: Your AVI-8 watch is warranted against any manufacturing defect for a period of twenty-four (24) months from the date of purchase.
When did the watch launch?
Launch coverage dated the Classic AVI Chronograph 42 release to May 25, 2023. At launch, Hodinkee reported US prices of USD 5,800 for the Warhawk and P-51 Mustang, USD 5,900 for the Mosquito, and USD 6,100 for the F4U Corsair on bracelet. Those are 2023 launch prices, not current price quotes. Hodinkee’s launch coverage provides the historical context.
Quick Recap
Best Value
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- Synchronized to Atomic Time Clock for Superior Accuracy, Atomic Timekeeping Technology with Synchronized Time Adjustment Available in 26 Time Zones, 1/20 Second Chronograph Measures up to 60 Minutes, Perpetual Calendar, 12/24 Hour Time, Power Reserve Indicator, Day/Date
- Silver-Tone Stainless Steel
- Anti-Reflective Sapphire Crystal
- 200 Meters Water Resistant and 5 Year Limited Warranty
Rank #4
- Men's luxury timepieces with technical advancements and a sporty style
- 1/5 Second Chronograph Measures up to 60 Minutes, 12/24 Hour Time, Date
- Silver-Tone Stainless Steel 42mm Case
- Luminous Hands and Markers and Mineral Crystal
- 100 Meters Water Resistant and 5 Year Limited Warranty
Rank #3
- From the Bulova Men's Classic Collection, inspired by vintage design, our classic watches achieve a tailored, understated look that's always in style.
- 6 Hand, Chronograph, Calendar, 24 Hour Time
- Silver-Tone Stainless Steel Case with Brown Leather Strap
- Gold Arabic Markers on Gray Patterned Dial with Mineral Crystal
- 30M Water Resistant and 3 Year Limited Warranty
How to choose among the versions
- Start with the aircraft tribute: Choose among the Mustang, Corsair, Warhawk and Mosquito based on the design treatment and aircraft that appeal to you.
- Compare the material by reference: Steel is listed across several models; 18k red gold is offered for at least the P-51 listing. Do not assume every dial or aircraft tribute comes in both materials.
- Check the exact attachment: Breitling lists calfskin straps and five-row metal bracelets, but combinations and availability vary. Confirm compatibility by reference if considering a separate strap or bracelet.
- Verify your market’s price and stock: The US-facing prices above may not apply elsewhere and can change on the official collection page.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
