A tribute to a pioneer, a tribute to an era: in launching the Chrono-Matic 49, Breitling revives one of the most famous models in its history – and indeed of watchmaking history as a whole – in a entirely new way.

Flashback to 1969, when Breitling creates the first selfwinding chronograph movement. This major invention was to enable the development of a whole range of chronographs named Chrono-Matic, forerunners of the current vogue for extremely large-sized watches, and featuring an original and distinctive appearance.

Fast forward to 2008: the new 49 mm-diameter Chrono-Matic is inspired by the generous volumes of the original model and by its modern design with unmistakable Sixties and Seventies accents including taut, angular lines and geometrical rectilinear hands with a square base or arrow tip. The red-rimmed totalizers lend a technical touch, while the dial reflects the traditional configuration of the totalizers at 3, 6 and 9 o’clock. The signature reproduces the Breitling symbol used from the 1950s to the 1970s, with the brand name capped by an applied gold capital B.

In keeping with its consistently innovative momentum, Breitling has also revised several details in a decidedly contemporary spirit. The rotating pinion bezel driving the slide rule takes the form of a black rubber-molded steel construction. The new woven steel bracelet, designed specifically for this model, makes an unusual contrast with the pure lines of the case.

In addition to the steel version, the Chrono-Matic 49 also comes in a red gold limited edition of 500. It is available with various dial colors, including magnificent motifs against black or bronze backgrounds created using the "épargne" method. The Chrono-Matic 49 is powered by Caliber 14, a reliable and high-performance movement that is chronometer-certified, as indeed are all Breitling movements. A classic entirely in sync with its times – on land, at sea and in the air.

• Movement: Breitling Caliber 14, officially chronometer-certified by the COSC,
  
• Selfwinding,
  
• High-frequency (28,800 vibrations per hour),
  
• 40 jewels.
  
• 1/4^th of a second chronograph,
  
• 30-minute and 12-hour totalizers.
  
• Calendar.
  
• Case: steel,
  
• Limited series in 18K red gold.
  
• Resistance to 3 bars.
  
• Rotating pinion bezel with circular slide rule.
  
• Cambered sapphire crystal, glareproofed on both sides.
  
• Diameter: 49 mm.
  
• Strap/Bracelet: Barenia leather, crocodile,
• Ocean Racer in rubber,
  
• Aero Classic in woven steel.