So, the Breitling Navitimer. Legendary. I mean, *really* legendary. We’re talking about a watch that’s been around since ’52, practically a dinosaur in watch terms. And it’s famous for being a pilot’s best friend, what with that circular slide rule thingy. I honestly don’t know how to use it, and I suspect most people these days are in the same boat (airplane? Get it?). But hey, it LOOKS cool, right?
Now, the thing is, a *real* Navitimer is gonna set you back a pretty penny. We’re talking serious cheddar. Which is where the “inspired” part comes in. People *love* the look, the history, the sheer chutzpah of the Navitimer. It screams “I know what I’m doing, even if I’m just going to the grocery store.” So, naturally, there’s a market for watches that capture that essence, without the, uh, Breitling price tag.
You’ve got everything from blatant homages (copies, let’s be honest) to watches that just borrow certain design elements – the busy dial, the slide rule bezel, the overall “pilot-y” vibe. And frankly, some of them are pretty darn good. Like, you could fool your average joe, maybe even your above-average joe.
I gotta say though, there’s a fine line between “inspired” and “rip-off.” I personally think if you’re gonna go the homage route, own it! Don’t try to pretend you’re a Breitling. That’s just…sad. And honestly, there are some smaller brands out there doing really interesting things with the pilot watch aesthetic. They’re taking the classic Navitimer as a jumping-off point and creating something new. That’s the stuff I get excited about.
Plus, Breitling themselves are kinda messing with things, too! I saw something about a new “Top Time” that’s only 38mm. TINY! Like, for a men’s watch, that’s practically doll-sized. I mean, I get the whole vintage thing, but…still. Makes you think, right? Are they responding to the trend of smaller watches? Are they trying to broaden their appeal? Who knows!
And then there’s the Navitimer 8. New CEO, new collection, going back to the “vintage-inspired” thing again. Are they trying too hard? Maybe. But hey, gotta try something, right?
