Starting a watch collection is an exciting journey, and choosing a brand with the heritage and technical prowess of Breitling is a fantastic first step. For a new collector, the goal is to find pieces that are iconic, durable, and offer a compelling entry point into the world of haute horology. This selection balances modern tool watches with timeless vintage-inspired designs, providing a solid foundation for any budding enthusiast.
Whether you’re drawn to the rugged appeal of a professional dive watch or the sophisticated complexity of a pilot’s chronometer, Breitling has a model to capture your imagination. Our curated list for WatchRanker features eight standout timepieces, from the depths of the Superocean to the cockpit of the Navitimer, each representing a different facet of what makes this brand so revered among watch lovers.
Our Curated Breitling Picks for New Collectors
- Breitling Chronomat Colt Automatic Chronometer Black Dial Men’s Watch
- Breitling Superocean 44 Automatic Blue Dial Men’s Watch
- Breitling Avenger Mechanical Yellow Dial Mens Watch
- Breitling Navitimer 8 Automatic Chronometer Black Dial Men’s Watch
- Breitling Professional Aerospace Evo E7936310/F562-152S
- Breitling Superocean II 44 Men’s Watch
- Breitling Colt A17380 Men’s Watch
- Breitling Superocean Heritage II A1732124-BC35-154S Men’s Watch
Breitling Chronomat Colt Automatic Chronometer Black Dial Men’s Watch
The Breitling Chronomat Colt is a robust and reliable timepiece built for action. Its 44mm brushed stainless steel case and integrated pilot bracelet offer a tool-like feel that is both substantial and comfortable on the wrist. The clean, legible “Volcano Black” dial with index hour markers ensures excellent readability in any condition.
Powered by a self-winding automatic movement that is COSC Chronometer certified, this watch guarantees exceptional accuracy and performance. It represents a fantastic entry point into Breitling’s world of professional instruments, providing a no-nonsense, durable design that is ready for everyday wear and adventure.
Breitling Superocean 44 Automatic Blue Dial Men’s Watch
For the collector drawn to aquatic pursuits, the Breitling Superocean 44 is a serious dive watch with a striking presence. The vibrant blue dial is not only visually appealing but also highly functional, offering maximum contrast for reading depth and time underwater. Its 44mm case is engineered to withstand significant water pressure.
This model stays true to the Superocean legacy of creating robust timepieces for professional divers. The unidirectional rotating bezel, luminous markers, and solid construction make it a trustworthy companion for both recreational dives and everyday wear, adding a pop of color to your collection.
Breitling Avenger Mechanical Yellow Dial Mens Watch
The Breitling Avenger series is known for its bold, military-inspired design, and this model with its striking yellow dial takes that ethos to the next level. It is a watch that commands attention with its high-visibility dial and rugged case construction, designed for maximum legibility and durability in extreme conditions.
As a mechanical timepiece, it offers a direct connection to traditional watchmaking. The Avenger’s assertive style is for the collector who wants a watch that makes a statement. It’s a tool watch in the purest sense, built for adventure and designed to be read at a single glance.
Breitling Navitimer 8 Automatic Chronometer Black Dial Men’s Watch
The Navitimer 8 collection pays homage to Breitling’s historic aviation instruments, and this model captures that spirit with a clean, modern interpretation. The 41mm case size is versatile, fitting a wide range of wrists, while the black dial with Arabic numerals and a date window maintains a classic, tool-watch aesthetic.
Like all true Breitling instruments, it is powered by a COSC-certified automatic chronometer movement, ensuring precision that meets the highest standards. For a beginning collector interested in aviation history, the Navitimer 8 offers a connection to Breitling’s storied past with a contemporary and wearable design.
Breitling Professional Aerospace Evo E7936310/F562-152S
The Breitling Aerospace Evo is a standout choice for the tech-savvy collector. This analog-digital watch combines the best of both worlds, offering a sophisticated appearance with the functionality of a high-precision quartz chronograph. Its titanium case makes it exceptionally light and comfortable for daily wear.
As part of the Professional line, the Aerospace Evo is built to meet the demands of pilots, featuring functions like a countdown timer, second timezone, and alarm. It represents a different side of Breitling’s technical innovation, perfect for someone who values advanced functionality and featherlight comfort.
Breitling Superocean II 44 Men’s Watch
The Superocean II 44 continues Breitling’s legacy of creating high-performance dive watches. This model is designed with functionality as the top priority, featuring a clear, legible dial and a robust bezel for tracking dive time. Its 44mm case is built to be a reliable tool under the sea.
This watch is for the collector who appreciates a purpose-built instrument. The design is straightforward and highly effective, focusing on the core elements required for a professional dive watch. It’s a solid, no-fuss timepiece that embodies Breitling’s commitment to manufacturing watches for extreme environments.
Breitling Colt A17380 Men’s Watch
The Breitling Colt is often celebrated as one of the most accessible models in the brand’s catalog, making it an ideal starting point for a new collector. It typically features a clean, sporty design with a rotating bezel and excellent luminescence for low-light visibility. The case and bracelet are crafted from high-quality stainless steel.
Known for its balanced proportions and versatile style, the Colt can easily transition from a casual daytime watch to a more refined evening timepiece. It offers the core Breitling DNA—robustness, precision, and a distinctive look—in a package that is both approachable and quintessentially Breitling.
Breitling Superocean Heritage II A1732124-BC35-154S Men’s Watch
For the collector with an appreciation for vintage style, the Superocean Heritage II is a perfect choice. This model draws inspiration from Breitling’s historic dive watches from the 1950s, featuring a sleek ceramic bezel and a elegant mesh bracelet. It masterfully blends retro aesthetics with modern manufacturing techniques.
This watch proves that a dive timepiece can be both a high-performance tool and a sophisticated accessory. The Heritage II is for those who want the reliability of a modern Breitling with the timeless charm of a classic design, making it a versatile and stylish addition to any collection.
What to Look For in Your First Breitling
Starting a collection with a brand like Breitling is exciting, but it can feel a bit overwhelming given the history and variety. I think the key is to focus on a few core principles that will help you find a watch you’ll enjoy for years. Your first decision is whether you’re drawn to modern or vintage pieces. Modern watches, often from the last 20 years, offer reliability, newer materials like ceramic bezels, and the peace of mind of a manufacturer’s warranty. Vintage pieces, generally from the 1990s and earlier, have a unique character and history, but they require more careful consideration regarding condition and service history.
Next, consider the movement. Breitling is famous for its chronographs, but they offer a range of options. For a beginner, a three-hand model with a date function is a fantastic and often more affordable starting point. If you have your heart set on a chronograph, look for the type of movement. Modern Breitlings often house excellent high-grade ETA or Valjoux movements, or their own in-house Calibers, which are top-tier but can be more expensive to service. Vintage models might use older, manually-wound movements like the Venus 178, which are classic but need a watchmaker familiar with them.
Condition is everything, especially for a first purchase. For a modern watch, check for box and papers (B&P), as this significantly helps with resale value. For a vintage piece, don’t expect perfection. Light scratches on the case are normal, but you should be wary of significant damage, over-polishing that softens the case lines, or a dial that has been poorly refinished. A watch with a clear, honest dial and a case that hasn’t been heavily polished is usually a smarter buy than a perfect-looking one that’s been overly restored.
Finally, think about your lifestyle and wrist size. Breitlings, especially the Navitimer and Chronomat, are known for their presence. A 42mm watch might wear very differently than a 46mm one. I always suggest trying them on if possible. Your first Breitling should be a reflection of your personal style, whether that’s the tool-watch aesthetic of the Superocean or the complex, slide-rule bezel of the Navitimer. By focusing on these aspects, you can confidently choose from our list of 8 Breitling watches for beginning collectors looking for modern and vintage picks.
FAQ
Is a vintage Breitling a good choice for a beginner?
It can be, but it requires more homework. A vintage watch offers a unique story and style you won’t find in modern releases. However, as a beginner, you need to be mindful of a few things. Service history is often unknown, and parts for older movements can be harder to find and more expensive. I recommend starting with a more common reference from the 1960s-1980s, as there is more information and community support. Always buy from a reputable seller who specializes in vintage watches and provides clear details about the condition of the movement and dial.
What is the most iconic Breitling model I should consider?
For most collectors, the Navitimer is the quintessential Breitling. Introduced in the 1950s, its signature feature is the circular slide rule bezel, designed for pilots to perform in-flight calculations. It’s a watch steeped in aviation history. If you’re looking for a true icon with immediate recognition, the Navitimer is it. Whether you choose a modern version with an in-house movement or a vintage reference from the 1960s, you’re getting a piece of watchmaking legend.
How important are “box and papers” for a beginner’s Breitling?
For a modern watch, they are quite important. “Box and papers” (B&P) refers to the original packaging and the warranty card or official documentation that authenticates the watch. Having these items significantly helps with the watch’s resale value and makes it easier to sell later if you choose to. For a vintage piece, they are much rarer and less expected, so their absence isn’t a deal-breaker. In that case, the condition and originality of the watch itself are far more critical.
Are Breitling watches a good investment?
You should primarily buy a watch because you love it and want to wear it. While some limited-edition or historically significant Breitlings can appreciate, most watches are not guaranteed investments, especially when you factor in servicing costs. The best approach is to view your purchase as acquiring a high-quality object you will enjoy. If it holds its value reasonably well, that’s a bonus. Focusing on well-maintained, classic models from our list of 8 Breitling watches for beginning collectors is a solid strategy for making a smart purchase.
What’s the difference between a Chronomat and a Navitimer?
This is a common question! Both are iconic chronographs, but they serve different purposes. The Navitimer, as mentioned, is the aviation tool with its slide-rule bezel. The Chronomat, originally developed for the Italian air force’s precision flying team, has a more rugged, rotating bezel with rider tabs (raised markers) for easy grip. The Chronomat often has a more sporty, tool-watch aesthetic, while the Navitimer is its own unique, complex category. It really comes down to whether you prefer the technical look of the slide rule or the robust feel of the rider-tab bezel.