Breitling Emergency E56321

Breitling Ref. E56321 An unusual, commemorative and rare limited edition titanium quartz multi-function wristwatch with antenna compartments, bracelet, warranty and presentation case, numbered 1,352 of a limited edition of 1,999 pieces, commemorating the successful journey of Breitling Orbiter 3 as the first balloon to fly around the world non-stop

Manufacturer : Breitling Year : Circa 2002 Reference No : E56321 Case No : 79’450 and 1352/1999 Model Name : Emergency Orbiter 3 Material : Titanium Calibre : Quartz Bracelet/Strap : Titanium Breitling bracelet, max length 200mm Clasp/Buckle : Titanium Breitling deployant clasp Dimensions : 43mm diameter Signed : Case, dial, movement, bracelet and clasp signed Accessories : Accompanied by Breitling warranty stamped The Hour Glass Singapore dated 15th February 2002, limited edition certificate, attestation, instruction manual, product literature, newspaper article on the Orbiter 3 in 2002, B-shaped swatch of Mylar from the skin of the Orbiter 3, product videotape, a book “The Greatest Adventure” by Piccard Bertrand and Brian Jones, radio receiver and presentation caseAfter investing over $7 million in research and development, the Emergency debuted in 1995, featuring two antenna compartments on the case back. This innovative watch was designed to activate the locator beacon once the antenna was uncoiled, sending a unique SOS signal on the official aviation emergency frequency of 121.5 MHz, thus aiding rescuers in locating a downed pilot. The story of this watch is particularly notable thanks to two adventurers, Bertrand Piccard and Brian Jones, who wore Emergencies during their historic journey. On March 1, 1999, they launched a high-tech helium balloon “Breitling Orbiter 3” from Switzerland with the ambitious goal of circumnavigating the globe on air currents, nonstop. They completed the journey 20 days later with their Emergency antennae safely stowed. This limited edition of 1999 pieces commemorates that remarkable feat and comes packaged with a signed and numbered certificate, along with a B-shaped swatch of shiny Mylar from the skin of the globe-circling balloon. Included in the complete set of accessories is a videotape detailing the watch and a book co-authored by Piccard and Jones, with a personal message from Bertrand Piccard in the opening pages. Breitling recently commemorated the 25th anniversary of this significant event, highlighting the collection as a testament to Breitling's steadfast dedication to producing not just functional tools but also potentially life-saving instruments.