Founded in 1884 by Leon Breitling, the Breitling company initially created precision watches for science, sports and industrial purposes. However, the quality of the company's craftsmanship soon drew customers to its door.
In 1915, Breitling watches released its first independent chronograph push piece. This watch was an instant hit. However, by 1923, Breitling had made advances on the design to include a separating stop and start function. This feature was very useful for timing, such as during sporting events. The Navitimer timepiece was created in the 1940s and is one of Breitling's most popular models. Used primarily by aviators, the Navitimer gives the pilot a wide range of functionality. In 1961, the brand developed a twenty-four hour dial for the Navitimer for astronauts who were concerned with loosing track of time in space.
Another of Breitling's most famous timepieces is the Emergency. This watch contains a radio transmitter for civil aviation. It broadcasts on the 121.5 MHz distress frequency emitting a signal that can be picked up within a range of ninety nautical miles by search aircraft flying at 20,000 feet or lower. The Emergency watch design has certainly saved lives in the past, making it one of the company's most impressive innovations.
By 1969 the company had released its greatest horology innovation: the first self-winding chronograph movement. Later in 1984, the company launched the Chronomat, one of the company's most famous timepieces. By 2009 the company had continued to innovate its design a released the Caliber 01. This self-winding chronograph movement is by far their most precise. Today the company continues to make innovative timepieces including a range of electronic watches and instruments designed specifically for aviation.
Because Breitling has always been associated with aviation, the company uses great care and precision when developing their watches. Each watch is 100 percent Swiss made and has received the highest marks from critics for overall precision and reliability. Similarly to Rolex, Breitling has a special building to test each watch and ensure that they are precise and reliable before distribution.
Breitling watches are manufactured in Switzerland and are mostly comprised of Swiss components. These timepieces are easily characterized by their polished cases and bracelets. Each watch also features a large watch face that is easy to read. Many of Breitling's watches feature an automatic winding mechanism, meaning there are no electronic components involved. Breitling has certainly set high standards for aviation timekeeping and continues to develop innovative and fascinating timepieces today.