This
is an outstanding 1967 Breitling Navitimer Cosmonaute #818, Twin jets logo.
This is an excellent case dial and hands for their age. All functions work as
they should. Breitling France serviced the watch in 2010. There are some
slights of wear on the dial and the case, which are obvious in the
pictures attached to the description.
A completely new
type of case with a patented geared bezel mechanism is developed for the
Chronomat (and the Navitimer and Cosmonaute chronographs). The first Chronomat
to be released for sale is the manual version, the ref 818. The ref 808 also
continues in production and initially the 818 is powered by the Venus 175 like
the 808 and the previous ref 769. It is thought that later 1970's examples of
the ref 818 have the Valjoux 7733 movement.
The case-back reference
"11525/67" dates this watch to 1967 and the distinctive case still
retains all it's sharp angles and edges - having never been polished. It does show
some signs of wear, but this is an honest classic vintage watch which actually,
is in excellent condition for its age. This 48mm diameter watch still looks
very handsome on the wrist today.
This is a watch hosting Breitling
Navitimer's complications, including the chronograph and bi-directional bezel
with integrated slide rule and tachymeter. However the Cosmonaute also has the
distinction of the 24-hour dial.
The hour markers have certainly aged,
but thankfully they have not been re-lumed - emphasizing the originality and
character of this watch.
The case-back has taken some wear over
the years, however at the right angle, with the right lighting, it is still
possible to read the engraving. It reads: "BREITLING", "DDE BR +
11525/67" (Ref) "0818" & (Serial number) "124….".
Breitling France has serviced the watch
in October 2010. The chronograph starts, stops and resets as it should.
The case measures a substantial 48mm
diameter (excl crown & pushers), however the case wears very comfortably on
the wrist. In today's world of large gents wristwatches, this 1967 beauty looks
magnificent on the wrist today. I have teamed the watch with a Breitling black
band leather 22mm.
A rare opportunity to own an awesome
watch!