It has been more than 50 years since Willie Breitling first revealed his Top Time sporty chronograph, with its racy black, white and red face, to the world.
Originally a hand-wound watch, Breitling has brought the watch back to life with a COSC-certified Breitling Caliber 23 automatic chronograph movement at its heart.
The watch is larger than its predecessor, at 41mm diameter, and its case is now steel rather than the original gold.
The dial arrangement and bold cross of black across its center are brought up to date with modern materials and manufacturing. It has central hour, minute, and chronograph second hands and two subdials, a small second counter at the 9 o’clock and a 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock.
“Breitling aficionados have always loved the Top Time’s dial. When it was released more than 50 years ago, it was a watch that appealed to a younger audience committed to enjoying the freedom and the spirit of the 1960s, and, amazingly, after all this time, it continues to stand out. The Top Time is an important but often-overlooked part of our heritage, and we know it’s going to resonate with men and women who love this blend of history, design, and great performance,” says Breitling CEO Georges Kern.
Its design may be historic, but the Top Time has an entirely modern trick up its sleeve because it becomes Breitling’s first watch offered with a blockchain-based digital passport attached that confirms the authenticity and ownership of the watch throughout its lifetime.
Owners can access the watch’s digital passport at any time and transfer ownership with a simple blockchain transaction. The digital passport will also complement Breitling’s digital warranty program by offering the absolute security that can only be provided by a blockchain system.
The watch is now available online now at Breitling.com for £4100.
