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1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsThe Breitling Navitimer’s appeal rests on its unmistakable circular aviation slide rule and chronograph, but its crowded dial is not designed for instant legibility. Size also needs careful checking: Breitling’s US page for reference AB0120121B1A1 calls it the “Navitimer B01 Chronograph 43” while listing a 46 mm diameter. That mismatch matters when you are judging fit or comparing versions.
What the Navitimer is—and what this review covers
The Navitimer is an aviation chronograph distinguished by a bidirectional bezel carrying a circular slide rule. Breitling says the model has been a favorite among pilots and aeronautical enthusiasts since 1952; that is the brand’s own account of its history, not evidence that the slide rule is necessary for modern flight operations. The bezel is intended to support aviation-related calculations, and it is also the feature that gives the watch much of its visual identity.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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Breitling Navitimer 01 Chronograph Black Dial Black Leather Mens Watch AB012012/BB02BKCD | $8,400.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
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Breitling Navitimer 01 Blue Dial 46mm Men's Watch AB012721/C889-453A | $11,000.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
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Breitling Navitimer 01 AB012721/C889-746P | $8,500.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
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Breitling Navitimer 01 AB012721/C889-101X | $8,500.00 | Buy on Amazon |
This review focuses on the current US listing for reference AB0120121B1A1 and uses earlier reviews only for observations about the specific versions those publications covered. It is not a claim of firsthand testing.
Is the Navitimer 43 mm or 46 mm?
Check the reference and its listed measurements rather than relying on the model name alone. Breitling’s US product page labels AB0120121B1A1 “Navitimer B01 Chronograph 43” but gives its case diameter as 46 mm, with a thickness of 14.22 mm and lug width of 22 mm. The page’s label and technical dimensions do not match, and the discrepancy should not be silently resolved as though one were a confirmed correction. Breitling’s listing for AB0120121B1A1 is the source for those figures.
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There are also earlier, distinct versions. Fratello’s 2018 hands-on review covers a Navitimer 1 B01 Chronograph in 43 mm and discusses a 46 mm version separately. Robert-Jan Broer preferred the 43 mm model on his wrist because it sat better and had less visual presence. That is one reviewer’s fit preference, not a universal rule or proof that every listing using “43” refers to a 43 mm case. Fratello’s 2018 review is specific to the watches it discusses.
How the slide rule shapes the experience
The bezel’s circular aviation slide rule is the Navitimer’s defining functional feature, not just a decorative ring of numbers. It provides scales for calculations; operating it involves aligning and reading those scales around the bezel. For a wearer who values mechanical instruments and a watch with a distinctive aviation identity, that interaction is central to the appeal.
Rank #2
- Breitling Model: AB012721-C889-453A
- Self Winding Automatic Movement, COSC Chronometer Certified
- Polished Stainless Steel Case and Navitimer Bracelet
- Sapphire Crystal Exhibition Case Back
- Breitling Caliber 01, Date Feature, Chronograph Feature, 70 Hour Power Reserve, Bi-Directional Rotating Bezel
The trade-off is density. On the 46 mm Navitimer 01 it tested, WatchTime found the larger dial made the slide-rule numerals easier to read and the rule easier to operate, but said the many scales and subdials still made the dial difficult to decipher. It also noted limited contrast between the steel hands and silver subdials, and modest nighttime legibility. These are observations about WatchTime’s tested 46 mm iteration, not a guarantee of how every Navitimer configuration will look. WatchTime’s 2015 test describes that version.
Watchfinder’s 2022 review of the B01 Chronograph 43 also discusses the dial, finish and slide-rule character. Its review is useful context for that model, but any historical price mentioned there should not be treated as a current price. Read Watchfinder’s review.
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Breitling lists a self-winding mechanical Breitling 01 manufacture caliber. It gives the movement an approximate 70-hour power reserve, a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour and 47 jewels. The chronograph displays elapsed time in quarter-seconds, up to 30 minutes and up to 12 hours. These are specifications for the cited official reference, not an assertion that every earlier Navitimer 01 has an identical configuration.
| Specification | Breitling AB0120121B1A1 listing |
|---|---|
| Movement | Self-winding mechanical Breitling 01 manufacture caliber |
| Power reserve | Approximately 70 hours |
| Frequency and jewels | 28,800 vibrations per hour; 47 jewels |
| Chronograph indications | One-quarter second, 30 minutes and 12 hours |
| Case | Stainless steel; screwed caseback |
| Bezel and crystal | Bidirectional slide-rule bezel; cambered sapphire crystal with glareproofing on both sides |
| Dimensions | 46 mm diameter, 14.22 mm thick and 22 mm lug width, although the page title calls the watch “Chronograph 43” |
| Water resistance | 3 bars (30 m / 99 ft) |
All figures in the table are from Breitling’s US listing for AB0120121B1A1.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Fit, water resistance and ownership considerations
Fit and wrist presence
A 46 mm diameter, 14.22 mm thickness and 22 mm lug width make the official listing’s measurements important to check against your wrist and preferred proportions. Because the same page names the model “43,” confirm the exact reference and dimensions with the seller before buying. The earlier Fratello review provides a useful but personal comparison: Broer preferred the 43 mm version for its lower visual presence.
Water resistance
The listed 3 bars (30 m / 99 ft) is modest water resistance. This is not a swim or dive watch, so do not choose it on the assumption that the aviation styling or screw-down caseback makes it suitable for swimming.
Warranty and configurations
Breitling’s cited listing describes a five-year international warranty and says registration can extend it by up to three years. Warranty eligibility and terms can vary by location and conditions, so check the current local terms with Breitling. Fratello discusses bracelet and strap configurations for its 2018 watch; those details should not be assumed to apply to every reference or present-day listing. For a strap purchase, verify compatibility with the exact watch, including the listed 22 mm lug width where applicable.
Quick Recap
Who should consider the Navitimer?
- It may suit you if you want a chronograph whose aviation slide rule is both a working feature and the visual center of the design, and you enjoy a dense, instrument-like dial.
- Think twice if you prioritize quick time-at-a-glance reading, strong nighttime legibility, understated dimensions or meaningful swimming capability.
- Before ordering confirm the exact reference, case measurement, dial configuration and included bracelet or strap. The “43” label alone is not enough to establish case diameter for AB0120121B1A1.
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.
