The Breitling Chronomat is a watch that needs no introduction within the horological community. A robust, versatile, and undeniably stylish timepiece, the Chronomat has cemented its place as a classic, evolving over the decades while retaining its core identity. This article delves into a specific iteration of this iconic watch: the Breitling Chronomat Automatic B13350, a coveted example from the turn of the millennium, currently listed at $3,660. This particular piece, boasting a black dial and presented with its original box and papers, offers a compelling glimpse into Breitling's history and the enduring appeal of its Chronomat line.
The Reference Number B13350: Deciphering the Code
The reference number B13350 itself holds a wealth of information for the discerning collector. The "B" prefix signifies its place within Breitling's extensive catalog. The numerical portion, "13350," points to a specific model within the Chronomat collection, indicating its features and construction. While Breitling's internal reference numbering system isn't always publicly deciphered in meticulous detail, the number itself reflects the watch's specifications, including the movement, case material, dial color, and bracelet type. In this case, the B13350 designates a Chronomat Automatic featuring a specific movement (likely a Breitling caliber, details of which will be explored later), a combination of gold and steel in its construction, and – as listed – a black dial.
A Look at the Aesthetics: Gold/Steel and the Black Dial
The combination of gold and steel is a hallmark of luxury sports watches, offering a sophisticated blend of robustness and elegance. The B13350's gold/steel construction likely features a steel case with gold accents, perhaps on the bezel, crown, or hands. This bi-metallic design creates a visually striking contrast, appealing to those who appreciate a touch of opulence without sacrificing practicality. The black dial, a classic choice for a sports watch, offers excellent legibility, ensuring that the time remains easily discernible in various lighting conditions. The black backdrop also serves to highlight the applied indices and hands, further enhancing the watch's overall readability. We can expect the dial to feature the characteristic Breitling Chronomat design elements: a date window, chronograph sub-dials, and potentially luminous hands and markers for enhanced nighttime readability.
The Movement: Heart of the Chronomat B13350
While the exact caliber isn't explicitly stated in the listing, it's highly probable that the Breitling Chronomat B13350 houses an automatic movement from Breitling's own production. Breitling has a rich history of developing in-house movements, known for their reliability and precision. This automatic movement would provide the watch with its self-winding functionality, eliminating the need for manual winding. The movement's specifications, such as its power reserve, frequency, and number of jewels, would be crucial factors in assessing the watch's overall performance and value. A potential candidate for this reference number might be a modified ETA movement, a common practice for many high-end watch brands at the time, offering a robust and reliable base for Breitling's own modifications and enhancements. Further research into Breitling's catalog from the year 2000 would be necessary to identify the precise movement used in this specific reference.
current url:https://wiyvty.cx313.com/all/breitling-chronomat-automatic-b13350-88179