Breitling Navitimer Automatic 41
About This Watch
The Breitling Navitimer Automatic 41 strips the iconic pilot's watch to its essentials, offering the legendary slide rule bezel and Navitimer aesthetic without the chronograph complication. This makes for a thinner, more understated watch that retains the visual DNA of the collection while being significantly more wearable as a daily timepiece. The 41mm case diameter — smaller than the standard 43mm chronograph — sits proportionally on a wider range of wrists, while the reduced thickness of 11.5mm slides easily under shirt cuffs. The blue dial provides a rich, versatile backdrop for the applied indices and date window at 6 o'clock. The Breitling 17 movement, based on the proven ETA 2824-2, delivers reliable COSC-certified performance with a 38-hour power reserve. While purists may argue that a Navitimer without a chronograph misses the point, this model serves a practical purpose: it offers the Navitimer's distinctive style and heritage at a more accessible price point. The slide rule bezel remains fully functional, and the overall proportions are excellent. For those who love the Navitimer design but prefer a time-and-date watch, this 41mm automatic is an ideal choice.
In-Depth Review
# Breitling Navitimer Automatic 41
Pilot watches occupy a peculiar space in modern horology—tools first, status symbols second. The A17326211C1A1 represents Breitling's commitment to this philosophy while acknowledging contemporary preferences. Introduced in 2020, this 41mm iteration of the legendary Navitimer strikes a pragmatic balance between its 1952 heritage and modern wrist realities. The slide rule bezel remains functionally identical to its ancestor, enabling pilots to perform quick calculations for fuel consumption, distance, and time conversions. However, the blue sunburst dial and refined proportions signal evolution rather than mere nostalgia. The in-house Caliber 17 movement, beating at 28,800 vph across 25 jewels, delivers a respectable 38-hour power reserve—respectable enough for daily wear without obsessive winding. Stainless steel construction and 30 meters of water resistance acknowledge that this is an accessible timepiece, not a vault-queen.
The Navitimer appeals primarily to two demographics: aviation professionals who still appreciate mechanical tools, and affluent collectors seeking legitimate horological credentials without haute complications. Its dual functionality—genuine utility paired with investment-grade provenance—separates it from fashion-forward competitors. At $3,800 market pricing against the $5,400 MSRP, secondary market softness reflects realistic conditions for sports watches in 2024. Against comparable alternatives like the Omega Seamaster Professional or Tag Heuer Carrera Chronograph, the Navitimer's slide rule and aviation legacy justify its positioning. This remains a watch for those who value lineage and purpose over novelty.
Specifications
Movement
| Movement Type | Automatic |
|---|---|
| Caliber | Breitling 17 |
| Power Reserve | 38 hours |
| Frequency | 28,800 vph |
| Jewels | 25 |
Case
| Case Diameter | 41.0mm |
|---|---|
| Case Thickness | 11.5mm |
| Case Material | Stainless Steel |
| Crystal | Sapphire with anti-reflective coating |
| Bezel | Bidirectional rotating, slide rule |
| Dial Color | Blue |
| Lug Width | 22mm |
| Lug-to-Lug | 48.0mm |
Features
| Water Resistance | 30m / 98ft |
|---|---|
| Bracelet/Strap | Stainless steel Navitimer bracelet |
| Clasp | Folding clasp |
| Weight | 150g |
| Complications |