It’s no secret that Georges Kern, Breitling's CEO, has been systematically revamping the entire catalogue since taking the helm. His approach blends a decidedly modern aesthetic with respectful nods to the brand's rich history of aviation-inspired timepieces and robust dive watches. This strategic repositioning has breathed new life into many of Breitling's iconic lines, and the Superocean collection is a prime example of this successful transformation. This review focuses on the Breitling Superocean Chronometre, examining its design, performance, and overall value proposition within the context of the broader Superocean family and the competitive landscape. While my personal experience didn't uncover any significant shortcomings, a thorough exploration of its features and specifications will illuminate its strengths and potential drawbacks for prospective buyers.
A Modern Take on a Diving Legend:
The Breitling Superocean has a long and storied history, dating back to the 1950s. Originally designed as a professional diver's watch, it quickly gained popularity among both underwater enthusiasts and those who appreciated its rugged, reliable design. The modern Superocean Chronometre maintains this legacy while embracing contemporary design elements. The case, available in various sizes (most commonly 42mm and 44mm), is typically crafted from stainless steel, offering a robust and durable foundation. The unidirectional rotating bezel, a crucial feature for divers, is often made from ceramic, providing excellent scratch resistance and ensuring accurate dive time tracking. The bezel's numerals and markers are clearly legible, even in low-light conditions, reflecting Breitling's commitment to functionality.
The dial design is equally impressive. Clear, concise, and uncluttered, it prioritizes readability. Large, luminous hour markers and hands ensure effortless time-telling, even in the depths of the ocean or under challenging lighting conditions. The date window, subtly integrated at the 3 o'clock position, doesn't disrupt the overall aesthetic balance. The choice of dial colors varies across the collection, ranging from classic black and blue to more vibrant options like orange and green, allowing for a degree of personalization. The overall effect is one of refined sportiness, balancing rugged durability with sophisticated elegance.
Movement and Performance:
The heart of the Breitling Superocean Chronometre is its high-precision movement. While specific calibers may vary depending on the model (e.g., Breitling Caliber 17 or other COSC-certified movements), the consistent factor is the commitment to accuracy and reliability. The "Chronometre" designation indicates that the movement has been officially certified by the Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres (COSC), a rigorous testing process that guarantees exceptional timekeeping performance within strict tolerances. This certification is a testament to Breitling's dedication to quality and precision. The automatic winding mechanism ensures convenient and consistent power reserve, eliminating the need for manual winding. The smooth operation of the movement and the precise ticking are noticeable upon wearing the watch.
Variations within the Superocean Family:
The Breitling Superocean line encompasses a range of models, each catering to different preferences and needs. Understanding these variations is crucial for choosing the right watch. Let's examine some key models:
current url:https://ijaxsc.e798c.com/bag/breitling-superocean-chronometre-review-74361