We’re reminded of Breitling’s shatterproof reputation with chronographs once again as the Swiss watch manufacturer launches the new Breitling Top Time Classic Cars Capsule collection. The series pays homage to three classic sport cars from the 1960’s including the Chevrolet Corvette, the Ford Mustang, and the Shelby Cobra.
The Breitling Top Time was originally released in 1964 and became one of the brand’s most youthful designs aimed at young and active professionals just getting into the luxury watch world. It was an entry level classic until it ceased production during the 1970’s. That was until last year, when Breitling revived one of the collection’s most iconic references, Ref. 2003, with a Breitling Top Time Limited Edition watch. Several months later and a second Top Time limited edition was launched, this one nicknamed the Top Time Dues designed in collaboration with Deus Ex Machina. As for today, we see another three modern-retro interpretations brought to life, this time inspired by three icons of American car culture.
“It’s about the journey, not the tempo. And that’s true whether you’re tinkering under the hood or hitting the road for a Sunday ride celebrating these beautiful machines,” says Breitling CEO Georges Kern.
The capsule collection includes three references. The first is the Top Time Chevrolet Corvette based on the design of the striking Corvette C2 from the mid-1960s, often referred to as the “Sting Ray”. It features a bold red dial, three contrasting black chronograph counters and a matching tachymeter scale. Powering the chronograph is the COSC-certified Breitling Calibre 25 automatic movement. The Breitling Top Time Mustang is equal to the above save for its rich green dial inspired by the iconic Mustang developed in record time in 1964, sparking a new genre of compact and affordable sports cars. Both of these watches measure to 42mm.
The final addition to the Breitling Top Time Classic Cars collection is the Top Time Shelby Cobra. This reference stands out a little more, not only for it’s blue dial honouring the paintjob of it’s namesake, but for its bi-compax layout bestowing a nice touch of symmetry. Like the aforementioned models, the counters are distinctively vintage in their roundedness but instead are powered by the COSC-certified Breitling Calibre 41 automatic movement. The stainless steel case of this model also comes in a little smaller at 40mm in diameter.
Other than their movements, dial colourways and case sizes, all three Breitling Top Time Classic Cars watches follow suit in the rest of their specifications. The cases are all engineered from polished stainless steel and feature non-screw locked crowns with two gaskets and snapped steel case backs engraved with each car’s logo in impressive detail. The releases also guarantee a 100 metre water resistant rating and are fitted with racing-themed calfskin leather straps and stainless steel folding buckles.
As a capsule collection, the Breitling Top Time Classic Cars watches are not limited but will only be available to order for the next year. If you’d like to learn more about these releases and order your own, head over to the Jura Watches website here or get in touch with the team by calling 01335 453453.
Specifications: Breitling Top Time Classic Cars (A25310241K1X1, A253101A1L1X1, A41315A71C1X2)
- Case Size: 40mm or 42mm
- Case Material: Stainless steel
- Bezel: Fixed
- Glass: Sapphire crystal
- Crown: Non screw locked
- Case Back: Closed with engraving
- Water Resistance: 100 metres
- Movement: Breitling Calibre 25 or Calibre 41, automatic winding
- Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds, chronograph
- Power Reserve: 42 hours
- COSC: Yes
- Dial: Red, green or blue
- Strap: Calfskin leather
- Buckle: Folding
- RRP: £4,360
- Limited Edition: No
