There are watches that tell the time, and then there are watches that tell a story. The Breitling Navitimer Rattrapante AB031021/BF77-441X is undoubtedly the latter. If you’re looking to buy pre-owned Breitling Navitimer, you’re stepping into one of the most iconic pilot watch lineages ever made.
We really cherish this timepiece, not just for its function as a chronograph but for its deep connection to the legacy of aviation and precision engineering. Read on to find out what makes this timepiece special.
The Story Behind the Navitimer: A Pilot’s Essential Tool
Breitling Navitimer Rattrapante has a rich history that is tied closely to the field of aviation. Breitling released the original Navitimer chronograph in 1952 to accompany pilots while they flew. The unique selling point for this watch was the slide rule, which allowed pilots to calculate flight-related data in the cockpit. Navitimer translates to navigator timer – highlighting exactly what this watch was designed to do.
The split-second functionality was introduced to the Navitimer chronograph later on in 1995, followed by a new in-house movement in 2017. Breitling added the Rattrapante feature to the watch to allow users to measure two separate elapsed times. The Navitimer Rattrapante continues Breitling’s tradition of precision watches with an aviation-inspired style.
The Case: The Power of Presence
The Navitimer Rattrapante stands out with a bold presence. Measuring 43mm across the diameter of the case, it achieves a size that is big but not overbearing. You know it is going to take up space on your wrist, but it doesn’t become too brash.
The brushed stainless steel case, with gradually polished surfaces, attracts light without being flashy. And the shiny, sloped bezel adds more elegance to this watch without losing its touch as a tool watch. It simply looks like a classy tool watch.
It’s not a light watch by any means, but the weight of the Navitimer Rattrapante is empowering. There is a heft to this watch that makes you feel like it’s a tool that only a man who knows how to use tools would wear.
Highlights:
- A bold 43mm stainless steel case.
- Rattrapante chronograph for dual time measurement.
- Powered by the Breitling Caliber B03 automatic movement with a 70-hour power reserve.
- Aviation-inspired design with split-second chronograph function.
- Water-resistant to 30 meters
- Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating.
The Dial: Function Meets Style
The most prominent feature of this watch is undoubtedly its dial. Like any other Navitimer out there, this watch’s dial is designed to be complex. It is best reserved for those who know how to operate it and take advantage of all its functions.
The main dial is black, and the sub-dials are white, creating a high-contrast layout often associated with a reverse panda aesthetic. The watch has a distinctive feature that defines it: the split-second chronograph function, or “rattrapante” in French. This allows you to measure two separate elapsed times. To use this function, you have to press the button on the left side of the case. Doing this will split your chronograph hands, with one hand stopping while the other continues to count.
One detail we really liked about this watch was the fine design that makes it extremely legible. Despite its complicated dial, the Breitling Navitimer is surprisingly easy to read.
The Movement: Mastery of Timekeeping
Inside, the Navitimer Rattrapante AB031021/BF77-441X is powered by Breitling’s Caliber B03 automatic movement. This chronograph movement comes with a rattrapante complication and features a power reserve of 70-hours. Enough time to forget about winding your watch for a weekend.
Examining the movement is a treat for the eyes. When you hold the watch in your hand, you can feel the ultra-smooth movement in the sweep of the chronograph hands. Using the rattrapante feature feels smooth as well. There’s zero pause or stutter as you engage the secondary seconds hand.
As is common in Breitling watches, the clean and high-quality finishing of the Caliber B03 movement is visible through the sapphire caseback, along with an enticing view of the movement’s balance wheel.
The Strap: Comfort with a Hint of Adventure
The Navitimer Rattrapante comes with a black leather strap accented by white stitching. The leather strap is what really gives this watch its old-school vibe. It’s sturdy, comfortable, and offers a nice length for a wrist fit. The watch strap matches its aviation theme without sacrificing elegance and sophistication. It’s neither too dressy nor too sporty.
The leather is soft against your skin. It molds to your wrist, creating a comfortable wearing experience, even if you plan on wearing it for long periods of time. For those who prefer metal, the Navitimer Rattrapante is also available on a stainless steel bracelet. That said, the leather strap suits the watch’s rugged yet refined personality particularly well.
The Wear: A Journey of Discovery
The Breitling Navitimer Rattrapante is one of those watches that you’ll have a wonderful time wearing. Every time you pull this watch out and catch sight of that dial, you will feel those decades of innovation that Breitling has been synonymous with. It’s big. That’s true. But it doesn’t feel overwhelming on the average wrist. Speaking of wrist size, here’s how to measure your wrist size for a watch.
The heft makes you feel like the watch means business, but never weighs you down. You’ll be proud to wear this watch. There’s just something awesome about popping the chronograph buttons, staring at the busy dial, and feeling how easily this watch goes with everything from suits to jeans.
Our Takeaway: A True Pilot’s Watch
The Navitimer Rattrapante is an amazing piece of history and an extension of pilots all over the world. Whether you love the technical details of the extra chronograph function or simply appreciate the clean but functional design, you will love everything this watch has to offer. Consider picking one up for yourself if you’re looking for a watch you’ll never regret buying.
Visit our luxury watch showroom today to experience this extraordinary timepiece up close and make it a part of your collection. You can also explore our online collection of new timepieces and pre-owned luxury watches to discover other stunning timepieces to add to your collection.
FAQS
What is a rattrapante chronograph?
A rattrapante, or split-seconds chronograph, allows you to time two separate events simultaneously. One chronograph hand can be stopped to record an intermediate time while the other continues running, then both hands rejoin with a press of the pusher.
How does the Breitling Navitimer Rattrapante differ from a standard Navitimer?
The primary difference is the split-seconds complication. While standard Navitimers offer traditional chronograph timing, the Rattrapante adds the ability to measure multiple elapsed times at once, making it more technically complex.
Is the Breitling Navitimer Rattrapante difficult to use?
At first glance, the dial can appear busy, but once you understand the slide rule and chronograph functions, operation becomes intuitive. Most owners find that familiarity quickly improves usability and legibility.
Is the Navitimer Rattrapante suitable for daily wear?
While it is a complex chronograph, the Navitimer Rattrapante can be worn daily if you’re comfortable with its size and presence. Its 43mm case and leather strap make it wearable across a range of settings, from casual to business attire.
What movement powers the Navitimer Rattrapante AB031021/BF77-441X?
This model is powered by Breitling’s in-house Caliber B03 automatic movement. It features a split-seconds chronograph complication and offers approximately 70 hours of power reserve.
Is the Breitling Navitimer Rattrapante considered collectible?
Yes. Due to its technical complexity, aviation heritage, and relatively limited production compared to standard chronographs, the Navitimer Rattrapante is often viewed as a more collectible variant within the Navitimer lineup.
