Breitling Navitimer 816

Breitling Navitimer 11525/67 48MM Black Dial Steel

Late in 1967, Breitling introduced a new bold design: The Big Navitimer, model 816. This stunning, modern-looking watch was a daring step forward. Its 48mm case was very impressive - even for today's standard! Ref 816 was in production for only ten years and today, it is regarded as a sought-after model amongst watch collectors, particularly in Japan. Also known as the 816 triple register due to its 3 subdials Case diameter: 48/49mm Case including crown: 50mm Case from lug to lug tip: 55mm Lug spacing: 22mmThe dial diameter is 33mm. It has a black dial with 3 white sundials and a unique styled hour and minute 'split hands' and red square-shaped hour and minute chrono counters. The first edition of Ref. 816 had white markers on the dial and a red alignment marker on the rotating bezel. The turning bezel was flat with rectangular notches on the octagonal stainless steel case. Despite its size, the overall appearance is surpassingly 'low profile' – its overall thickness is just over 12mm. Also, the winding crown with chrono pushers are finely integrated for comfortable wear The strap is original breitling leather with originals buckle The watch works well, and always keeps good time, it was serviced before I bought it and is a pleasure to wear, I’ve always been careful of it The stainless steel case is free of dents and scratches,the case back has fine marks and these cannot be erased for fear of losing the serial number and other markings,, it has been partly polished out Its also worth noting that the dial is original, and is all the better for it, many watches have refinished dials, and they don't look right. Through an eye glass however, you can read the following DDE BR 1525/67 "DDE. BR. + 11525/67" refers to the Swiss patent for the case and bezel mechanism (Swiss patent number 11525 dated 1967) The patent was granted for Breitling's design of inner rotating bezel with ratched pinion. 0816 Which makes it a Navitimer 816 As mentioned, the serial number of the watch is barely visible because it was only lightly etched, not engraved, but can be identified as 1244336 Which according to this advert accredited watch specialist Superlative Time, dates serial no 1244447 as 1967, and ours is a few watches earlier… Either way, it’s a very early late 1967 / early 1968 Breitling Navitimer 816 in super condition