The Breitling Emergency II combines a wristwatch with a separate distress transmitter: its 406 MHz digital signal is designed to alert the Cospas-Sarsat satellite system, while its 121.5 MHz signal helps rescuers home in once they are nearby. It is a one-way emergency beacon with finite operating autonomy—not a general-purpose satellite communicator.
How the Emergency II beacon works
Breitling describes the watch and transmitter as separate components. To activate the transmitter, the wearer deploys its antenna. The beacon then sends two signals on different schedules: a 406 MHz digital burst lasting 0.44 seconds every 50 seconds, and an analog 121.5 MHz signal lasting 0.75 seconds every 2.25 seconds, according to Breitling’s operating information.
The satellite-alert function is the 406 MHz signal. NOAA explains that Cospas-Sarsat satellites detect distress beacons transmitting in the 406.0–406.1 MHz band. The 121.5 MHz signal has a different role: it is a local homing signal for rescue teams, not a satellite alert channel. NOAA says its satellites no longer detect 121.5 MHz signals. NOAA’s SARSAT FAQ also notes that a 406 MHz message can carry a beacon identity and may include GNSS-derived location when the beacon is equipped for it. The available model-specific information does not establish that this watch sends GPS coordinates, so do not assume it does.
What the published specifications say
Breitling’s current Canadian technical listing identifies the beacon as Cospas-Sarsat, PLB Category 2, and gives the following manufacturer specifications. They are not independently reproduced test results.
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| Specification | Breitling listing |
|---|---|
| Beacon frequencies | 121.5 MHz and 406.040 MHz |
| Minimum transmitter output | 30 mW at 121.5 MHz; 3.2 W at 406.040 MHz |
| Transmitter autonomy | At least 18 hours at −20°C; at least 24 hours at +20°C |
| Case and water resistance | Titanium, 51 mm; 5 bar |
| Weight | 140 g for transmitter and watch, without strap |
| Movement and functions | Caliber 76 SuperQuartz; 12/24-hour displays, chronograph, timer, second timezone, multilingual calendar, and battery end-of-life indication |
These figures describe the listed product specifications, not a promise that the transmitter will operate indefinitely or under every condition. See Breitling’s technical specifications for the manufacturer’s listing.
Activation, testing, and upkeep
Activate only for a genuine emergency
Deploying the antenna activates the transmitter, according to Breitling. This is not a routine communication feature. NOAA’s safety guidance says: “406 MHz emergency beacons should never be activated unless you are in grave and imminent danger.” If the beacon is activated accidentally, NOAA advises reporting it as soon as possible to the appropriate rescue coordination center. Consult the official NOAA guidance for U.S. contact and registration information.
Rank #2
- Polished Stainless Steel Case and Bracelet, Case Diameter: 44mm
- Blue Dial with Index Hour Markers
- Breitling Caliber B20
- Self-winding Automatic Movement, COSC Chronometer Certified
- 200 Meters / 660 Feet Water-Resistant
Use the approved test method
NOAA advises testing with the beacon’s self-test feature or through an authorized dealer or test facility; do not activate the emergency transmission to see whether it works. Breitling describes a charger-tester that periodically recharges the beacon battery and automatically checks transmitter operation. The operating information does not state a universal service interval or confirm compatibility across every reference. Follow the manual for the specific watch or ask an authorized Breitling service provider about the correct charger-tester and maintenance schedule.
Registration and model-year caveats
In the United States, NOAA says registration of covered 406 MHz beacons is free and required under federal regulations. Registration information can help authorities identify the beacon owner; NOAA recommends keeping it current and checking it every two years. Requirements differ by country, so owners should follow the rules where the beacon is registered and used. See NOAA’s SARSAT FAQ.
Rank #3
- Breitling Superocean 42mm Heritage B20 Automatic Blue Dial Watch UB2010161C1S1
Breitling’s current regional product pages use the “Emergency” collection name and list Emergency references, but that naming alone does not establish that each current listing is the Emergency II generation. Confirm the exact reference and its compatible accessories with Breitling or an authorized retailer before purchase or service. A charger-tester should not be assumed to fit every version.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What this watch does—and does not establish
The Emergency II’s defining feature is a wrist-worn 406 MHz distress beacon paired with a 121.5 MHz homing signal. Its published role is emergency alerting, not ongoing two-way messaging. The product information cited here does not establish two-way satellite communication, GNSS location transmission for this exact watch, or compatibility between every current Emergency reference and Emergency II accessories. For a real emergency, the beacon’s limited operating autonomy and the need for correct registration make model-specific preparation important.
Quick Recap
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- Breitling Superocean Heritage II Chronograph Automatic Blue Dial Men's Watch A13313161C1S1
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