Ref 769 Chronomat was an important milestone in the history of Breitling. For the first time a wristwatch featured an innovative slide rule bezel that enabled the user to quickly compute mathematical operations essential for aviation using the rule of three. This calculator was artfully placed in addition to the tachometer and pulsometer scales commonly present on pilots’ watches. The slide rule was patented in 1942 and given the copyright number 217012 which was printed on the dial. This model is the predecessor to the Navitimer, that is probably the most widely used professional pilot’s watch ever made.
Most of the Ref 769s were made in stainless steel, with far fewer models in gold with white dials. Our timepiece is distinguished because it has the most desirable black dial in combination with a rose gold case. We have never seen this color combination in a Ref 769 previously.
The condition of the watch is remarkable. The case exhibits no scratches, dings or blemishes. There is a deep gold hallmark present on the side of the case, indicating that the watch was never subjected to aggressive polishing.
Case back is tight and closes with a nice snap. Bezel rotates with good tension. Bezel teeth are sharp. Outstanding original dial with a vivid red track against gloss black. The dial is truly a work of art.
Case: 35mm Diameter, 18k rose gold Dial: Glossy black with red inner track and satin silver outer track. Patinated luminous numbers, original syringe hands Movement: Manual winding Venus 175, 17 jewels, 40 hrs of power reserve, 18,000 vph Dial and movement signed Breitling.
